Since Jesus has gone before us, everything is different. He has conquered every enemy along the way. Take heart, weary warrior. Christ not only walked this road but also defeated your enemies.

Do you fear sin? He nailed it to His cross. Are you afraid of death? He has defeated Death itself.

Worried about hell? He has closed its gates to His children; they will never face that abyss. Every enemy the Christian might face is already overcome. Lions may appear, but their teeth are gone; serpents may come, but their fangs are removed; rivers might flow, but they're passable; flames might burn, but we wear a garment that shields us from harm.

The weapons formed against us are already dull; the enemy's tools are useless. In Christ, God has taken away the power of anything to harm us. So, march forward with confidence, knowing every enemy is already defeated. What remains but to claim victory?

They're beaten and vanquished, and your task is to claim the spoils. You may engage in battles, but you fight a defeated foe. His strength is spent, though he may try to harm you. Your victory will be easy, and your rewards will be beyond measure. "Proclaim aloud the Savior's fame, Who bears the Breaker's wondrous name; Sweet name, fitting well, for He breaks down earth, sin, death, and hell."