These things I have spoken to you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye will have tribulation: but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world. John 16:33

Troubles seem to pop up out of nowhere. And when they do, we often seem surprised. In the surprise we may think, “How could this happen? Why did it happen to me? What did I do wrong?” Yet while we may seek to know and understand our troubles, as long as we remain in this world, we will have them. Trouble is as much a part of life as the air we breathe and the water we drink. Though we may plan and prepare and try to control the things within our sphere of influence, the reality is that we all compete for survival. Much of our survival behavior is to have peace and happiness. The scripture passage reminds us that peace and happiness we all seek in life are provided through faith in Jesus Christ. He says, “In Me ye might have peace…be of good cheer.” Jesus has triumphed over the world. He has defeated death, hell, and the grave. Through Him, “we are more than conquerors” and nothing “shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom 8:37-39).  Through faith in Jesus Christ, the child of God has victory over sin and free access to the Father to “come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace in time of need” (Heb 4:16). And in His presence, all who come to Him may know the comfort, peace, and joy that the rest of the world doesn’t have. The child of God has the eternal care, Personal protection, and provisions of the heavenly Father and His Son who “have overcome the world.” Dear friend, our troubles are never a surprise to the Father. The troubles of the world can never defeat Him or divert His eternal purposes nor the everlasting love He has for His children. Even though we may go through trials, difficulties and tribulations, God’s love for His children always prevails. My friend, God demonstrates His love, mercy, grace, and power to you and through you in the midst of life’s difficulties, trials, and tribulation. Only “be of good cheer,” Jesus has ‘the victory that overcometh the world” that through faith in Him “whosoever is born of God overcometh the world” (1 Jn 5:4). No trouble, trial, or difficulty can separate you from the love of God and His eternal purposes. When troubles arise and fear seems to overwhelm us, hear Jesus say, “Be not afraid, only believe” (Mk 5:35). It is by faith in Jesus Christ and in the word of God that we “have peace” and “be of good cheer.” Father thank You for Your love and the promise of peace through faith in Jesus Christ. Help me to walk by faith and “the victory that overcometh the world.” In the blessed Name of Jesus. Amen.