Text:
John 14:1-3; 16:31-33
Memory Verse:
“I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In the world, you have trouble and suffering, but take courage – I have conquered the world” (John 16:33, NET).
It is not in doubt that the world we live in is full of trouble. Jesus Christ acknowledged this when He reminded His disciples that in the world they would have trouble and suffering. In Job 14:1 it is written that ‘man born of a woman is of a few days but full of trouble.’ These scriptures and many
others are there to prepare us for the reality of impending trouble in different forms.
However, as the people of God, we are not to allow ourselves to be consumed by these conflicts whether they are international, national, economic, or even family. In John 14:1, Jesus Christ gives us the first antidote in times of trouble and that is, “do not let your heart be troubled.” This statement puts the responsibility of surviving any and every trouble at the feet of the individual. It
is completely in the hands of the individual either to survive or to collapse in the face of trouble.
He further told them to “believe in God; believe also in me.” We should not focus on ourselves, our abilities, or our know-how (although they are necessary). This is naturally our first line of action when confronted with any of life’s challenges – Who do I know? Who can help me? Our first port of call, however, should be Jesus Christ.
When you focus on Jesus during your troubles, He will give you divine direction such that at the end of the trouble, you will be able to say, “this is the Lord’s doing and it is marvellous in my eyes.”
Prayer Points:
1. Lord, help me to remain calm in the face of trouble.
2. Help me, Lord, to trust You at all times.
