Many people believe that if we love God and love others as we love ourselves things will go easy for us in this world. However, Jesus told his disciples, “For in this unbelieving world you will experience trouble and sorrows”. So the reality of living on fallen planet earth exempts no one from experiencing times of difficulty, disappointment, or frustration. Our Lord Jesus told His disciples, whom He loved, that they would encounter troubles and problems on this earth. After making this seemingly depressing statement, Jesus spoke out with great optimism, telling His close followers to cheer up, and “Because everything I have taught you is the Truth- this peace which is in me will be in you and will give you great confidence and courage as you learn the experience of resting in me.” This peace Jesus offers us is the joyous Breath of the Holy Spirit- the Divine Encourager sent from the very presence of the Father”. Jesus directed his followers to be courageous, brave, positive, firm, fearless, and undisturbed- because, “I have overcome the world!” By overcoming the world, Jesus has given us the authority to spiritually triumph over the negative powers that seek to overthrow our inner peace, and steal the hope that pushes us positively stepping forward in the plans the Lord has for our lives. In the middle of the chaos, tribulation, and confusion occurring in our world today, Jesus says, “Be brave and courageous, for I AM always with you, you are never alone.” Jesus has defeated both death and hell, as children of the Most High God; our souls will never die, because we are promised eternal life! We now walk in a spiritual kingdom that lives within us, but one day we will leave this earth and we will walk in the Kingdom of Heavenly love- not by faith but by sight. When we turn towards God’s love, power, and grace to find help in our times of need on this earth, He has the ability to use the trials and tribulations, which the Enemy sends to defeat us, to create positive and progressive spiritual development in our hearts and minds. He has the power to work it all out and bring blessings to you at the same time. So remember, if you are struggling in the chaotic times we live- take courage, be confident, and certain that God is still on His throne and He has the power to work out our present, and what lies ahead, according to His perfect, glorious, loving plan. Because He overcame, we can discover true rest, as we draw from His grace and conquer whatever seeks to defeat us on our earthly journey.
“In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustrations; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you]!” (John 16:33).
