Always Triumphing by G. B. Thompson

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Nov 5, 1914

Always Triumphing

By G. B. Thompson

“BUT thanks be unto God, who always leadeth us in triumph in Christ.” 2 Cor. 2: 14, A. R. V. These words are true, though they do not at times seem so. This metaphor of the great apostle is drawn from the scene of an ancient Roman triumph, when some victorious general, returning from the gory field of conquest, ascended the Capitoline Hill amid the plaudits of the assembled thousands. The captive kings and princes were paraded before him, and prisoners carrying the spoils of war followed his carriage. Some of these captives were led away to be put to death; others were permitted to live.

The Captain who leads in the Christian’s army is a victorious leader. He has spoiled the principalities and powers of darkness, having made a show of them openly; he has triumphed over the powers of hell. He has bound death and hell to his triumphant chariot. He has been received back to the throne of God, with the trophies of his victory as a mighty conqueror.

Those who surrender to Christ to be

led by him share in his triumphs in this life. They meet a conquered foe. Oftentimes they are indeed a spectacle to angels and men. Some have sat in the stocks. Some have been sent into exile. Others have been whipped, tortured, and stoned. Some have been fed to beasts in the arena. But through faith they have triumphed. Though living in caves and clothed with sheepskins, they have been victors through God. Many have been accounted the offscouring of all things; been hated, despised, mocked, and ridiculed; yet in the spiritual realm they have been victors. In heaven they will be accorded a triumph. Though seemingly conquered by force and superior numbers, they nevertheless by faith in the Son of God have triumphed even though they have yielded up their lives. Though, enslaved by the powers of earth, and marked as criminals through unjust and tyrannical laws, yet their consciences have been free; they have had liberty of soul. Though they were set aside and debarred from the society of those they loved and of the great of earth, they will be placed in the front rank in the society of heaven.

Are you tempted to feel downcast? Struggling Christian soul, lift up your head. If you will but permit Jesus to conquer your soul, he will make you to triumph now, and in eternity give you a place among the victors. The Lord knows no defeat. He never leads his people in retreat. His bugle call is ever forward. With him it is a march and a victory. Struggle as they may, he can scatter the legions of darkness. His people may well be of good cheer, knowing that if faithful they will conquer, even in death. G. B. THOMPSON.