Trouble

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

The Bible is full of truth, and there are times you read a verse that you know very well, but it hits you in a different way. Stronger, personal, and more powerful in its intensity. Such are the words in this verse.

Trouble. Jesus doesn’t say where it will come from, so we have to keep an open mind. Each of us will endure different kinds of trouble which could include health, big life changing decisions, education, family death, depression, anxiety and the list goes on. Since the kind of tribulation is not mentioned, we know that the next phrase applies to each and every one we may face. Remind yourself of these words as often as necessary, and tell yourself that they are the words of Jesus. “But take heart; I have overcome the world.” Did you get it? Read it again, and let it stick because there will come a time when you will need to remember them word for word.

There is another word tucked into the middle which might be overlooked as we think of overcoming. The words are these: “in me you may have peace”. Peace is a commodity in short supply in today’s world, and happy (blessed) is the one who achieves it. I love the words of Jesus who talks about this in John 14:27 when He says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid”. Amen and Amen!