Take Heart: Remind Yourself that Jesus is With You

Facing challenging times can feel like being pressed in a wine press, where the weight of life squeezes us so hard that we feel completely crushed, body, mind, and soul. For Emily, that moment came at just 16 years old, when a freak accident left her in a forced coma, with broken ribs, punctured lungs, and a liver doctors said would never recover.

Maybe you’ve had a moment like that, too, where the odds are stacked against you, and even faith feels out of reach. Believing Jesus is present in the middle of pain can feel impossible. But here’s the truth: Jesus never promised a life without suffering. In fact, He told us, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 NIV).

That changes everything. Because to “overcome” means to rise above, to move through the hardship, not around it. It means that in every crushing season, there’s a greater hope to cling to. To live the Jesus Way means knowing He is with us through the process, and the Cross is proof. The Cross is where impossible turned to possible, where death gave way to life, and where every crushing moment can be met with hope. Our invitation is to change our perspective and begin to live the Jesus Way.

Let’s Get Practical

Instead of asking, “Why am I going through this?” try asking, “Where can I see Jesus walking with me in this season?”

Sometimes the greatest act of faith is not escaping the pain, but holding on to hope in the middle of it.

Questions for Reflection

• What season of life are you in right now?
• Where do you see evidence of “Emmanuel—God with us” in your story?
• How could following Jesus daily help you stand strong in the tension of the “in between”?

Takeaway for Today

Life is full of seasons. Some are full of joy, others of loss. But every season carries purpose, and in each one, Jesus is with you.

Bible Reading

John 16:33
Ecclesiastes 3:1–8
Matthew 1:23

Action Step

Take ten minutes today to name the season you’re in, out loud or in writing. Then invite Jesus to reveal to you how He's already been walking the journey with you. Ask Him to help you see His presence right where you are, not just where you wish you could be.