John 16:33

New International Version (NIV) 

“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.”

For Meditation

What a promise!

1. But Lord, how can we have peace when the whole world is up in arms against us because of you?
2. When our parents forsake us because of our faith, how can we have peace (Matt. 10:34-36)? How can we have peace when we’re thrown in jail for acting in your name (Acts 16:16-25)? When people give us hell in the office because of our integrity, how can we have peace?
3. But isn’t that what makes the promise of John 16:33 so refreshing?
4. Do you remember the terror that crippled the disciples during the Passion Week (Mark 15:50, 66-72)?
5. Do you remember the victory on Calvary when Jesus shouted from the cross, “It is finished” (Jn. 19:30)? Have you forgotten the miracle at dawn on the third day? Do you know that the resurrection of Jesus was the “Amen” of heaven (Lk. 24:1-6)?
6. Can you imagine the pandemonium in hell when Jesus rose from the dead (Col. 1:13-14)? Can your faith apprehend Satan’s dread at the authority you’ve received from Jesus (Matt. 28:18-20; Lk. 10:19-20; Acts 1:8)?
7. What happened after Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4)? Do you remember their courage and boldness when the Holy Spirit filled them (Acts 4:31)? How else could they have counted themselves “worthy to suffer disgrace for the name of Jesus” (5:41)? What made the difference?
8. So, why don’t you embrace the security and peace you have in Jesus for brokering peace between you and God (2 Cor.5:18-19; Rm. 5:1)? And when the storms of life overwhelm you, do you realize the power the name of Jesus invokes, and the calm it brings (Lk. 8:24)? Have you experienced the power of praise when the forces of darkness assail you (Acts 16:25-26)?

Remember that Jesus has overcome the world for your sake (Jn. 16:33). In Him, we’re more than conquerors (Rm. 8:37). You can put your trust in Him for victory in every spiritual battle .

May you throw away every anxiety and pray over every situation with thanksgiving to God. He has promised to fill your heart and mind with His peace in Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:6-7).

Amen!

Shalom