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April 8 -- John 16:16-33

“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” –John 16:33 (NIV)

Jesus told His disciples that “in a little while” they would no longer see Him, and then after another “little while,” they would see Him again (v. 16). His disciples did not understand what He meant by this or what He meant when He said He was going to the Father.

Jesus explained that, pretty soon, they would “weep and mourn” while the world “rejoice[d]” (v. 20). Yet their grief would not last; it would soon be “turned to joy” (v. 20). He compared this emotional shift to a woman in labor, who forgets the pain she endured after her baby is born. The disciples’ grief would end this way, and when it did, no one would be able to take their joy away (v. 22). Then, they would no longer be filled with questions for Jesus; instead, they would receive whatever they asked for from the Father in Jesus’ name.

Whenever the Bible talks about receiving whatever we ask for “in Jesus’ name,” it does not mean God is a vending machine who responds to the right words. Asking “in Jesus’ name” means we have come to know WHO Jesus is, and therefore, our hearts have come to desire what He desires. Thus, we ask for things that align with His character, and we ask with confidence in His love, mercy, and power.

After the Resurrection, the disciples had this knowledge of Jesus’ character and power firsthand. They undoubtedly had a deep joy and felt a closeness to Him that enabled their hearts to beat in time with His in such a way that their desires and prayers reflected His desires and prayers. God always answers these kinds of prayers, and the believer experiences a deeper relationship with Him that brings joy and satisfaction (see v. 24). But before the disciples would reach this point, their faith would be tested.

Jesus knew His disciples would all desert Him in fear. They wouldn’t even stay together. They would “scatter” to their own homes (v. 32). When their faith was tested, it would crumble. But that wouldn’t last, and in the meantime, Jesus would not be totally alone. The Father would be with Him. Then, after the Resurrection, the disciples’ faith would be restored—so much so, that they would no longer fear what men could do to them! They would have the peace Jesus wanted them to have because they had seen Him overcome death.

Jesus’ words in verse 33 are also for us: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” The world’s troubles should never cause us to despair. Jesus is more powerful than any troubles or sorrows we may face, and He loves us with an everlasting love.

Talk to God about your current troubles, and then reflect on what Jesus went through on the cross to save you. Think about His Resurrection and know that the power behind that miracle is available to you. Jesus will not take away all your troubles, but He will walk with you through them. If you cling to Him, you will emerge from those troubles stronger and a little more like Him. You will also find a peace and joy that do not change with your circumstances. Ask God to strengthen your faith and help you stay close to Him, and then thank Him for overcoming the world for you and making His peace and joy available to you.

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My name is Melissa Anderson. I'm a spiritual director and ordained pastor who loves God, people, and words. You can read more about me by clicking the button below.

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