Trouble

I read a verse this morning that really caught my attention. It’s one of those that I’ve heard many times before, but it jumped out at me with new meaning and made me think. Here it is: John 16:33 – “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.”

Our world is in trouble. Turmoil all around – in nations, organizations, homes, and even sometimes in churches. It’s scary and unsettling at the least. We in America have no idea what it is like in some countries where fear is a constant companion. And even though we are besieged with hatred and unrest, it’s not as bad as the culture in which Jesus was addressing His disciples.

Just think about it. The ruling Roman Empire was wicked at the core. And Jesus knew it was going to get worse. More persecution of Christ followers. More death. More poverty. More conflict. We have it easy compared to those first century Christians. Even so, we all face difficulties. That’s the way it is in a sinful, fallen world.

And how do we cope? By following Jesus’ example and knowing that He is with us through the Spirit He promised. That’s the setting of this verse about trouble. Jesus was giving His disciples some last minute advice before going to the cross. He warned them of His death and His departure from the earth. But He promised a Comforter. He assured them of joy to come: “You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy,” He said (John 16:20). So take heart, whatever may come. Our future here on earth is uncertain, but our future in heaven is a sure promise from Christ Himself.

Remember this old song by John Peterson? “It’s not an easy road we are travelling to heaven, for many are the thorns on the way. It’s not an easy road, but the Saviour is with us. His presence gives us joy every day.”

Joy every day. Is that possible? Jesus said so in this same departing address to the disciples. John 15:11 – “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” “I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them” (John 17:13).

So how is your joy level today?