In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
What does the world tell us about trouble? It seems to me that the answer the world gives always has to do with the word, “more.” More money. There’s an answer. If I had more money, I would … What? You would do what? Would you buy your way out of trouble, or would trouble find you because you have money?
The world’s idea of security and peace is elusive. The goal post keeps moving even as you get closer to it. Whether it is more money, better friends or spouse, or a new diet or exercise regime, more is always what is needed but is never enough.
Jesus, on the other hand, has overcome the world. He did that in part by rejecting Satan’s offers of physical satisfaction, power and authority, and pride. (Luke 4: 1-13) The finality of his victory was in letting the world kill him only to discover that Jesus is life itself.
“Take heart!” Jesus says. That is a choice we make when we choose to believe what Jesus says. If we don’t believe, we lose hope. If we do, we take heart.
Food for thought: How does life change when one chooses to “take heart”?
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