John 16:33 (NIV)
33 I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
“But the last word isn’t one of warning. It’s one of good cheer. Somehow, even in the worst that is to come, the disciples can have a peace that will carry them through. This peace…is a matter of standing on the ground that Jesus is going to win – indeed, that he claims to have won already.” (N.T. Wright, John for Everyone)
Jesus loves you, he desires peace for you, so he does not sugarcoat the realities of this world. Jesus speaks clearly that you will have trouble, and in trouble you can still have his peace. Yes, you will face persecution. You will have days when nothing seems to go right or when pressures feel overwhelming. You will face difficult circumstances and grief. But Jesus is equally clear that he has defeated this world and his victory over it is already complete. So let’s face today with courage, standing on the ground that Jesus has already been victorious over the troubles of today.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I receive your word of encouragement into my heart that you have already overcome every difficulty this world can produce. Holy Spirit, remind me of these words of Jesus in the troubles I face today, and fill me with joy and courage. In Jesus’ name, amen.
In encouragement from Jesus’ word to us, let’s worship him as we sing “Overcome” by Elevation Worship (click here).
-KW
