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Friday, May 30, 2025

30May

John 16:33

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:33 (NIV)

John 16:33 is one of the most comforting scriptures in the Gospel of John.

The context of this verse is about God's promise of everlasting joy for the disciples, after all challenges and difficulties that they have and will encounter. This verse includes, warning, encouragement, and victory.

The verse starts with Jesus telling the disciples His purpose and the future turmoil they are about to face, so that they could have peace.

The challenges of life do not have a timetable, nor do we get notified before they occur. They occur unexpectedly and they leave us with worry in our heart. No human being on earth can escape hard times, because they are part of life. But they are a test of our faith.

Striving to become like Christ is not an easy task, nor does following Him guarantee an easy and smooth life.

The Bible promises us that hard times will come, but for those who place their trust in God he will not only lead them through, but restore them. We sometimes see glimpses of this in our lives’ here on earth and will ultimately experience a complete fulfillment in eternity.

Questions for Reflection:

  • Has your life always followed the plans you set?  
  • If you answered NO to question 1, what occurred and how did it affect you?
  • During these unexpected life events, has your faith helped you through these times?
  • If you answered NO to question 2, how did your faith fail you?
  • Will your faith today help you understand and deal with future worry and unexpected events? 
  • If you answered NO to question 3, what can you do now to correct this situation?

Prayer:

Lord, help us be aware of Your promise of everlasting joy, and that in our life we will experience challenges and problems. Help keep our faith strong so we can prevail through these times, and await Your comfort in eternity. Give us the power to strengthen our bond with You in prayer and appreciation for Your gifts. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen

TrustPromise

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Posted by Mike Jagadich

Mike Jagadich and his wife, Nancy have been Southwood members since 1991. That year, Mike relocated to Lincoln from Bloomington, Il with State Farm Insurance. After more than 35 years, as the Facility and Operations Manager for State Farm Insurance at the Lincoln Operations Center, he retired November 2021. With Nancy retiring from LPS in June 2021. The have three boys; AJ and his wife Beth and their daughter Berkley in Gretna; Drew (Southwood Youth Director) and his wife Beth and their son Theo in Lincoln; and Bobby and his fiancée Anabella in Philadelphia.

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