Expediency Of Thinking Like A Victor, Not Like A Victim, And Embracing True Identity (OPINION)

By Isaac Asabor

Since Sundays are sacred days, this writer shall try to refrain from political topics and take time to opine on real issues affecting mankind, particularly Nigerians, as a way of imbuing confidence in the collective subconscious of the readers of this piece; hoping that in one way or the other, someone would be motivated to begin to think differently in the journey of life by refraining from seeing himself or herself as a victim, instead of as a victor.

In fact, in life’s journey, we encounter challenges, setbacks, and disappointments. How we perceive ourselves during these moments significantly impacts our resilience and ability to overcome. Therefore, instead of adopting a victim mentality, it is pragmatic to consider embracing the identity of a victor.

Given the foregoing backdrop, it is expedient in this context to express views on why this shift in perspective is essential, particularly as it is backed by biblical wisdom.

For the sake of clarity, a victim mentality is when we blame external factors for our circumstances. It is believing that life is perpetually unfair, and we are powerless to change it. We might think: “I failed because my boss does not like me”, “My relationships are doomed because of my past”, or “I will never succeed; the odds are against me.”

Against the backdrop of the facts that adopting a victim mindset is dangerous, it is expedient in this context to explore the dangers of adopting a victim mindset over a victor’s mindset.

First and foremost, when we see ourselves as victims, we tend to believe that external circumstances control our lives. We feel powerless to change our situation, leading to stagnation. We become passive observers rather than active participants in our own lives. This learned helplessness prevents growth, resilience, and personal development. And the consequence is that we miss out on opportunities, fail to take risks, and remain trapped in a cycle of negativity. Our mindset becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy, reinforcing our victim status.

In fact, as gathered, various online literatures on the subject of psychology, are unanimous with the fact that having a victim’s mindset makes us to constantly feel victimized, and that this attitude, no doubt, leads to chronic stress, anxiety, and depression. As understood from the psychological literatures, the reason for its consequences cannot be farfetched as we focus on what is wrong, leading to a negative feedback loop making our health to suffer as stress hormones wreak havoc on our bodies.

Also, physically, we may experience weakened immune systems, sleep disturbances, and increased susceptibility to illnesses. Emotionally, we become bitter, resentful, and isolated, thereby affecting our relationships and overall well-being. In contrast, adopting a victor’s mindset empowers us to take charge, learn from setbacks, and thrive despite challenges.

Despite the consequences that are inherent in the attitude of having the mindset of a victim, the Bible acknowledges real victims but encourages us not to remain in that mindset.

For instance, Psalm 10:14 reminds us that God sees the afflicted and offers help. Therefore, we can commit ourselves to Him, even if we have been influenced by victim thinking.

Also, in 1 Corinthians 2:16, the Bible declares that we have the mind of Christ, indicating that our thoughts matter, and that we can choose to align them with His truth.

Still in the same vein, Romans 12:2 urges us to renew our minds. This is as transformation happens when we shift from victimhood to victory.

Without overly sounding ecclesiastical and sanctimonious in this context,  it is germane to explore powerful verses that inspire us to see ourselves as victors, by making references to some inspiring scriptures like Deuteronomy 20:4, which says God fights for us against our enemies, granting victory, 1 Corinthians 15:57, which says through Jesus Christ, God gives us ultimate victory, Philippians 4:13, which says we can do all things through Christ’s strength, John 16:33 which says Jesus overcame the world, and so can we, and Romans 8:37, which says that we are more than conquerors through Him who loves us.

Also important in our quest to always think like Victors is that there is the need for each and everyone in the Christendom to embrace his or her identity. The reason for the foregoing cannot be farfetched as believers, we are divinely disposed to always trust what the Bible tells us about our identity in Christ. God’s words reveal who we were created to be and who we have always been.

Given the foregoing, it is germane to encourage those who feel abandoned or alone, to remember that they are not defined by their circumstances as God calls them friends.  After all, what does the Scripture says about the Friend of God? The Bible phrase “Friend of God” is found in James 2:23, “And the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”, and he was called a friend of God.”

Also, if anyone has ever felt like it is a mistake to be living as person, or as a Nigerian, such person should know that God intentionally chose him or her to be His own. It is unarguably for this reason that God in 1 Peter 2:9, pointedly told us “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellences of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;”

It should also not be forgotten that anyone in the Christendom is God’s Masterpiece. Despite feelings of unworthiness, it is expedient to recognize that you are fearfully and wonderfully made, and that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, regardless of past actions or experiences.

Remember, you are no mistake. Embrace your identity with pride, knowing that God’s design is perfect! Therefore, shift your mindset from victim to victor. Remember, God’s strength empowers you. When challenges arise, declare, “I am an overcomer!” Trust in His promises, and you will live as a victor, not as a victim.