Define Your Reality - Day 15

***This post was part of a Define Your Reality Devotional Series during the 30 Days of Prayer for Family Life Church in March of 2020. It was written by Jonathan Travis.***

"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." John 16:33

This verse is comforting in these troubling times we are living in. We are seeing things that honestly remind me of a disaster film from the 90’s. A virus outbreak that’s threatening to not just make people incredibly sick, but it could also tank the worlds economy. It is a little disheartening.

When I read the words of Christ in John 16, I am reminded that we have troubles to face in life. In this passage Christ speaks to the disciples of his coming crucifixion, and reminds them that though there will be grief, their grief will turn into joy – when they see him resurrected!

Christ understood the pain that his disciples would endure. While Christ was fully God, he was fully man as well. He knew the emotions and anxieties of humanity. He lived it, and most importantly, he took all of that upon himself on the cross. What a reason to celebrate!

It is so easy to look at the chaos of the world around us and loose heart. Brothers and sisters, I ask that you don’t lose heart today despite what we see in the news and on social media. Our Savior reminds us to cast our cares upon him!

This is an opportunity for us to grow in our faith, to place our anxieties at the foot of the cross, and trust that the God of the universe, who sits on the throne of heaven loves us and will provide grace during these times.

Let us continue in prayer for each other, our church, the leaders, our country and the world. Remember, God is mindful of everything we go through, and He will sustain us.

Jonathan Travis