I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
As I write this I think of an old man even now sitting at the side of his dying wife. As her body fails he is there, holding her hand. Tribulation. Death is a consequence of sin and this husband and wife are feeling its pain. In the world you will have tribulation, Jesus says to each of them, but take heart! I have overcome the world!
How can Jesus look at his followers and one minute say to them, the hour is coming… when you will be scattered… (verse 32) and in the next tell them, I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. How can he say we will have peace and we will have tribulation?
We are reminded that this world is not our home. We are passing through to the promised heavenly land and Jesus has overcome this world so it will not be able to keep us from him. The husband’s tears for his wife are real, but so is his hope in the knowledge that Jesus has overcome the world.
What is the trial for you today? What is your tribulation? Have you found the secret to peace, the knowledge that Christ has overcome the world so no matter what your affliction you have a lasting hope? Christ is victorious over sin and Satan! Christ is victorious over death and Hell! Christ has promised eternal blessings to the adopted children of God! Believer, have peace! Christ has overcome the world.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
thanks Chris for this timely reminder! Its easy to see tribulation or trials and respond in fear. thanks for the reminder to turn to Christ instead of our emotions!
Thank you so much! I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed right now with some troubles I’ve dealt with for far too long and several other stressful things that have come up also. I needed the reminder.
RIGHT NOW IAM IN PAIN I WANT TO SHOUT AND CRY OUT LOUD I DO know that God is in control but am sitting and crying on His shoulders . lord i do need u help me and am very frightened.father be with me