One of the things I appreciate most about God’s Word captured through the Bible, are those statements that apply to all people in all places in all times. It is one of the evidences God designed for us to pick it up, observe what it says, interpet what it tells us about God and ourselves, and quickly apply it’s truths to our lives.

All [of the Bible] is inspired by God and is useful for to teach us what is true and make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.

2 Timothy 3:16 (NLT)

With that truth in mind, I’m sitting here asking myself, what is the most relevant of Jesus’ statements for August 16, 2020, and for all people?

COVID-19. Live-streamed murder. Racial and civil unrest. Political confusion. Global disasters. Economic deterioration. Emotional chaos. Relational disconnectedness. (Maybe that last one is just me.) It just feels like there is nowhere to turn to for certainty, hope, and stability. And then Jesus speaks these honest words…

Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows.

Jesus Christ, John 16:33 (NLT)

Why is that so refreshing to my heart? Why is an acknowledgement of forthcoming [fill in the blank of whatever our next Jumanji adventure is] such – dare I say – a relief? It is because of who said it.

Regardless of your relationship with your father,  imagine for a moment you are terrified during a thunderstorm. Its noisy, the house is shaking, and you’re waiting for the roof to blow off. Now imagine your father comes in, kneels at your bedside, holds you closely, tells you he will take care of you, and reassures you of his love and protection over you. Those words are meaningless sounds were it not for the strong tower that is the father you love and trust.

Today, its my opinion there have never been more honest, relevant, reassuring, and loving words spoken than John 16:33. In this verse, Jesus personally assures us that when we are in a relationship with him, there is victory over the world. Jesus calls to take courage and persevere.

There is victory over what we’re going through. There is an end to this. Our hope and peace that have seemingly been lost, are secure in Jesus Christ.

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