The Book of Revelation | God Always Wins

Take a minute to read Revelation 12:1-17.

When you look at this chapter as a whole, a clear pattern emerges. Three times the dragon attacks, and three times he is defeated. Each defeat becomes more decisive than the last, and each victory reveals more about God's character and power.

First, the dragon waits to devour the woman's child, but the child is "snatched up to God and to his throne." The dragon's first strategy—direct attack on God's anointed—fails completely.

Second, the dragon wages war in heaven against Michael and his angels, but "they did not prevail, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven." The dragon's attempt to challenge God's authority in his own realm ends in humiliating defeat and banishment.

Third, the dragon pursues the woman on earth, but even here, his attacks are thwarted. The earth itself cooperates with God to protect the woman, swallowing the river that was meant to destroy her.

This pattern reveals something crucial about the nature of spiritual conflict. Evil may seem powerful and persistent, but it is not omnipotent. Every attack has its limits. Every assault ultimately fails. The dragon may win some battles, but he cannot win the war.

Biblical scholar F.F. Bruce observed that Revelation 12 functions as the theological heart of the entire book. It reveals the cosmic context for all the earthly struggles that believers face. Behind every persecution, every trial, every temptation, there is this greater conflict between God and the dragon. And in that greater conflict, the outcome is never in doubt.

So this chapter offers hope in the midst of ongoing struggles. When you feel overwhelmed by circumstances, remember the pattern. When evil seems to be gaining ground, remember the ultimate trajectory. When you're tempted to despair, remember that the dragon's fury is actually evidence of his desperation.

God doesn't just win occasionally—he always wins. Every time. Without exception. That's not a prediction about the future; it's a promise you can count on today.

Prayer: Lord, help me to see my daily struggles in the context of your ultimate victory. When I'm discouraged, remind me of the pattern—you always win.