Encouragement

I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

John 16:33 (NLT)

On the night of His arrest, Jesus wasn't selfish. He wasn't thinking of self preservation. His concern was for His followers.

Even though Jesus Himself needed encouragement that was sadly lacking from His followers, He provided it for them. He told them about the fact He was going to prepare a place for them in glory. There's hope for us, even if we face death (unless Jesus returns first).

Jesus didn't flatter His followers, but He did encourage them to find peace in Him. He didn't make out life was going to be easy for them for following Him. He didn't promise health, wealth and happiness.

Nevertheless, Jesus encouraged His followers that despite the trials and sorrows of life, He has overcome all that would assail us. We can easily forget that this world isn't all there is. There's an eternity to come that can be one of everlasting rest for those of us who trust in Him.

'Abba Father God, please give us the peace we need to overcome the trials and sorrows of life. May we be encouraged that Christ has overcome the world. In His name we pray, amen'.

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