Weary: Holding on to God's Word in Hard TimesSample

Take Heart, He’s Overcome the World

Confused, discouraged, and scared. That’s likely how the disciples felt when Jesus, their beloved teacher, leader, and friend (whom they had left everything to follow), had just told them He was leaving and warned them of incoming trouble. Just like the disciples, our lives won’t always work out as planned, and we won’t always understand why God is taking us through certain things. During hard times, I’m tempted to despair, to think there’s no ups, just downs; however, this verse reminds me that God sees our struggles, hasn’t abandoned us, and is certainly not foreign to our suffering. In fact, the reason Jesus had to leave in John 16 was to endure the suffering of the cross and rise again to secure our salvation. And because of His sacrifice, we can take heart; Jesus is still in control.

Reflection:

• Knowing that Jesus hasn’t abandoned you, what would it look like for you to "take heart" today?

Prayer:

God, I thank You for who You are and all You’ve done for me. Lord, please help my heart to rejoice in Your victory over death on the cross. Even when my circumstances try to convince me otherwise, help me remember that You are still in control. In Jesus Name, Amen.