Take Heart
Good morning Immanuel. Jesus is not the kind of Savior who wants only to get us to heaven. He wants the peace of heaven in our hearts along the way.
“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
We don’t have to live long in this troubling world to set expectations. Tribulation is always in the forecast. And Jesus does not change the forecast for us. Instead, He comforts and strengthens us through the power of His world-conquering gospel. This means our tribulations are a once-in-eternity opportunity to lean into the comforting power of Christ. We know our true friends not when our chips are up but when they’re down. And it’s in our tribulations that we discover the love and power of our friend and Savior, Jesus Christ.
He wants to make us radiant in this life with resurrection-joy and courage! And for that, we must endure tribulation—but not without His help and example. Who is like Jesus?! On the eve of His death, it’s our hearts that concern Him most. Surely there is no easier Person in the Universe to trust than Jesus! And we can trust Him. Even more certain than the tribulations He promised is the peace He gives. Let’s take heart in Christ today, Immanuel!
Grateful 🙏🏼