“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.” John 16:33

In this chapter Jesus is speaking to His disciples preparing them for His death and eventual return to heaven. This particular verse spoke to my heart this evening. It shows Jesus’ compassion for His followers. He seemed to be sensitive to their concerns and gave then information and encouragement to prepare them for things to come.

In this chapter He told them that the Holy Spirit would be sent to comfort them after He was gone. He wanted them to have peace. He warned them of the troubles that they would face in this world. He assured them that they WILL have trouble. There was no question about that. But instead of leaving them in despair, He instructed them to “take heart”. Be encouraged. Relax. “I got you.” Why? ” I have overcome the world.” Not the town, or the village, not the city, not even the continent. THE WORLD!

When we experience troubles it is easy to think, why me? This verse reminds us that we WILL all have troubles. It’s a promise. We should not really be surprised when having difficulties. The prudent thing to do is to remember that Jesus has overcome the whole world and the circumstances that we all face while in it. Allow His words to seep into your heart and marinate in your spirit. Let them saturate your mind and soothe your worries.