Life has a way of throwing challenges our way—painful memories, disappointments, and struggles that seem to whisper, “This is who you are, and this is where you’ll stay.” Many of us feel trapped, believing that our past mistakes, failures, or hardships will forever define our future. But here’s the truth: In Jesus, we are given a new identity—not as victims of circumstance, but as victors through His overcoming power.
One of the most powerful testimonies I’ve witnessed is that of Shantini, a young woman from our church in Singapore, where Joel and I serve as pastors. Shantini’s life could have easily been written off as a tale of hardship. She faced painful circumstances that could have left her bitter, broken, and bound by her past. But Shantini made a different choice.
She chose to believe what God said about her, not what life tried to label her as. Through faith, perseverance, and an unshakable trust in God’s promises, Shantini rose above her challenges. Her journey didn’t just lead her to personal victories—she soared to remarkable achievements, earning awards and even receiving presidential recognition in Singapore. Her story is living proof that when we anchor our identity in Christ, transformation becomes inevitable.
The Bible is filled with promises for those who dare to believe:
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” — John 16:33
“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” — Romans 8:37
“For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.” — 1 John 5:4
These verses aren’t just poetic lines in Scripture—they are declarations of who we are in Christ. Shantini’s story echoes these truths loudly. She is not an exception; she is an example. The same God who empowered her to rise is the One who calls you to rise.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13
“So do not fear, for I am with you… I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” — Isaiah 41:10
Consider This:
Your Past Doesn’t Dictate Your Future.
Just like Shantini, you are not defined by what you’ve been through. In Christ, you are a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). Your identity is rooted in Him, not in your history.
Victory is Your Birthright in Christ.
Every believer is called to live as a conqueror. Challenges may come, but Jesus has already secured the victory. You are empowered to rise above—not in your own strength, but in His.
You Carry the Aroma of Christ’s Triumph.
Your life is meant to spread the fragrance of Christ’s victory everywhere you go (2 Corinthians 2:14). Your testimony, like Shantini’s, has the power to inspire and impact others.
Friend, you are not a victim. You are a victor in Christ. No matter where you’ve come from or what you’ve faced, you have the power to rise, to impact, and to walk in the fullness of who God has called you to be. The same God of victory in Shantini’s life is at work in yours.
