Ever have something hit you like a ton of rocks, something you weren’t expecting, and you feel that there is a pit in your stomach? Ever had that call in the middle of the night, and as soon as you hear the first ring you think, “Oh no, the kids aren’t home yet.” Ever been told something you weren’t expecting to hear and your whole world begins to spin out of control? Yes, everyone has had these experiences in life; if you haven’t yet, hang on, they are coming! Everyone wishes for a smooth life but no one, no one has ever lived a completely smooth, uncomplicated life. Scripture tells us to expect trouble. In John 16:33 Jesus says, “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.”
Jesus says without reservations, “In this world you will have trouble…” Even Jesus didn’t have a smooth, uncomplicated life. He was accused of breaking the law, went on trial, convicted and sentenced to death. He was tortured, beaten, and crucified until death overtook him. Yes, even our savior, our king had trouble in this world.
So, the question is, how do we overcome, how can we bare it all? Jesus also said, even in the midst of all these things, “In me you may have peace, take heart! I have overcome the world.” Even amid all the trouble that this world can bring, God’s children can have peace, but only in Jesus.
We are a society of action, so resting, abiding, and bowing our knee before Jesus can seem like an unproductive thing to do in times of trouble. But take it from this girl, Jesus doesn’t make the trials go away but when we place them before Him, when we bow in prayer asking for that promised peace, Jesus is faithful to provide.
Is today one of those days for you? Is the world pounding at your door? Bow and ask…. Jesus will provide and overcome! Praise the Lord, oh my soul and all that is within me praise His Holy name.
Pastor Kathy Bartels
Associate Pastor
