John 3:16, Psalm 46:1, Ephesians 1:18, Ephesians 1:11, Colossians 1:11-12, 2 Corinthians 4:1

Suzie Brock considers the incredible advantages all believers have when they follow God

Suzie Brock

I heard it said recently that we as believers in Christ have an 'unfair advantage' in life. That statement really captured my heart and imagination. It pricked something in me of excitement and wonder; after all who doesn't want an unfair advantage? However, being someone who has been transformed by Gods love, it is in my heart, as it is in many, that all would have this advantage; that the playing field would all become terribly 'fair'.

In my heart what I know is unfair, is that from the beginning what I have found in God is not anything that I have deserved, or ever will deserve. Having God on my side is something that at times makes me feel a bit guilty, but it also makes me happy and confident!

The Bible states that if God is for you, who then could be against you? Here's the beauty and the wonderful truth - God wants everyone to have this 'unfair' advantage. He said in John 3:16 that He wants that not one person would ever perish! It's His heart that all would have Him and He answers all who call upon Him, turning no-one away.

The advantage is for all, but not all will have it; not all will grab hold of the one who reaches to grab hold of them. They will call on others for help, but will ignore the only one who truly can.

For those of us who have received Him, we have become children of the King. We have aquired an 'unfair' advantage. To us is given the promise of help in times of trouble; light in our darkness; hope in our despair; peace in place of our fears. To those who so choose, it is given.

Sadly many of us often unwittingly forget that His hand is stretched towards us now and forever and that all we have to do is grab hold in times of trouble. We need to remember that we have this advantage as children; that though it may rain on just and unjust alike, we have help. Remember that we were never meant to 'go it alone' and face challenges by ourselves, nor to fight wars without weapons or help.

If you find yourself needing an 'unfair advantage', then cry out, reach up, take hold of the one who takes hold of you.

If you have never known Him and you know that you need that 'advantage', then cry out; open up and receive Him, as He has already chosen to receive you. Let us grab hold of the inheritance; walk in the advantages provided and encourage others to do the same!

'God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.' Psalm 46:1

'I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called-his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance.' Ephesians 1:18

'Furthermore, because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for he chose us in advance, and he makes everything work out according to his plan.' Ephesians 1:11

'We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy, always thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light.' Colossians 1:11-12

'Therefore, since we do hold and engage in this ministry by the mercy of God granting us favor, benefits, opportunities, and especially salvation, we do not get discouraged (spiritless and despondent with fear) or become faint with weariness and exhaustion.' 2 Corinthians 4:1