“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
I was just a child during World War II, and so only remember some of the things that the world faced back then. I can remember my Dad being drafted but rejected because of a physical problem. I can remember ration books and there being short supply of some foods. We lived on a farm, so we were able to have a garden and we had cows to provide milk. So, at the time, I did not realize how severe conditions were. People survived that period and have survived a lot of other difficult seasons since.
It is unrealistic to think that we can have a life that is always sunshine and flowers. Jesus told His disciples that it was certain they would face tribulations. At the time they did not realize just what He meant, as they were probably expecting Him to set up an earthly kingdom, and that everything would be perfect. Even though He was warning them of troubles to come, He also promised them peace, because He was in control. Maybe he quoted them the following verse from the Old Testament writings:
“For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.” Isaiah 41:13.
This season we are in may seem like the worst thing that we could face. Imagine not being able to gather in church for two months (and it may be a lot longer). But this is just another way the Lord is preparing us for eternity. One thing for sure, we will not face problems like this in Heaven. There will be no pain or suffering, sorrow and tears will be wiped away. Even though we may not like what we are going through now, we have His promise that He will never leave us nor forsake us.
“Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:” Philippians 1:6.
There is a chorus we used to sing: “He didn’t bring us this far just to leave us, He didn’t teach us to swim to let us drown. He didn’t build His home in us, just to move away, He didn’t pick us up just to let us down.”
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13.
Let us remember that everyone has problems, and we will have until Jesus takes us home to be with Him. Let us stand firm on our faith in God, resting in His peace each day.
Prayer: Jesus, we thank you for your constant care and love for us and that even in the middle of problems hard times, you are always there to give us strength.
Devotion by Anne Johnston
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