Scripture of the Day
"In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33, NIV)
Reflection
Jesus didn't say you may have trouble. He said you will. No one lives a carefree life. There is physical trouble, when our bodies break down. There is mental and emotional trouble, the weight of anxiety, depression, and confusion. There is trouble in the world and trouble close to home. Trouble is the common language of humanity.
Martin Luther knew it well. The Reformer wrestled with bouts of depression, and he was hunted as a heretic for defending the gospel. Yet in his darkest seasons he kept returning to Psalm 46, a song of holy confidence. Out of it came the hymn "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God." Luther didn't escape trouble. He prayed and sang his way through it, returning again and again to the God who was his fortress.
Notice the second half of Jesus' sentence: "Take heart!" He doesn't ask us to pretend or to feel strong. He asks us to look at what he has already done. He has overcome the world. Our troubles are real, but they are not final.
That's why we don't give up praying in the middle of trouble. Jesus has told us the ending. Keep praying, keep singing, keep trusting. The story is not over, and the One who has overcome is with you.
Reflection Question
Which trouble in your life makes you most tempted to stop praying, and what does "take heart" mean for it today?
Action Step
Read Psalm 46 aloud slowly, or sing or hum "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God," and let it become your prayer.
Prayer
Jesus, you told me I would have trouble, and you were right. You also told me you have overcome. Help me hold on to that promise and keep praying when I'm weary. Amen.
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