Checkmate!

“Even when I am afraid, I will trust in You.” – Psalm 56:3

In the grand game of life, we are often met with strategies, surprises, and setbacks. Like chess, every move matters. Every decision, every pause, and every advance must be weighed with wisdom. But unlike chess, we do not play alone—we have a divine strategist guiding our every step, turning even the most precarious positions into undeniable victories.

Take, for instance, Elsa Majimbo—the young Kenyan social media sensation who stunned the world not just with her wit and charisma, but with an unexpected revelation: a 15-time unassuming chess champion. Her life is a metaphor for what it means to rise quietly, to master your craft when no one is watching, and to emerge in due time with undeniable influence.

What makes Elsa’s story remarkable isn’t just her comedic talent, but the way her behind-the-scenes discipline in chess mirrors a deeper spiritual truth: You can be winning long before the world notices. Her success was not built on sudden fame but on years of mental fortitude, strategy, and preparation. Likewise, the believer’s life is often a hidden work—a silent training ground where God develops character before revealing calling.

“And let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9

Life, like chess, is filled with opposition—sometimes we’re a few steps from losing. A relationship fails. A dream dies. Our hope flickers. But even in apparent chaos, the Master Planner is not confused. Consider Joseph, the favored son turned slave, then prisoner, before becoming Pharaoh’s right-hand man in Egypt. His life was anything but linear. Betrayed by his brothers, falsely accused, forgotten in prison—yet God was moving the pieces.

“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” – Genesis 50:20

Joseph didn’t see the full picture from the pit. But God, the Grandmaster, saw the palace ahead. He allowed setbacks to become setups—each loss a disguised gain. 

Like David, we may find ourselves in dark valleys—places where fear and uncertainty surround us. But the promise remains:

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me.” – Psalm 23:4

Faith doesn’t mean we never feel fear. It means we press forward, knowing who walks with us. When fear whispers, “You’re losing,” God declares, “I’m positioning you.” 

The enemy may think he has cornered you. It may feel like you’re out of moves. But God always reserves the final word. Like the cross, what looked like defeat became the greatest victory. In Christ, we are never outmaneuvered.

“The LORD himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.” – Exodus 14:14

No matter the disorder in your life today, take heart. God may just be setting up your checkmate—a powerful, undeniable reversal of every plan the enemy had for your destruction. 

Your life may look tumultuous now—like you’re trapped with no way forward. But let your journey echo the stories of Joseph, David, and even Elsa Majimbo: those who endured hidden training, trusted divine timing, and emerged triumphant.

And when the enemy thinks he’s won, may your testimony boldly declare:

“Checkmate.”

With Love, Esinam