S)"33 These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world."
John 16:33 (NASB)
O) When Jesus said, "These things..." He's referring to His teaching, regarding His departure from the disciples to the Father. So, knowing that Jesus has gone to prepare a place for us, and that He left us the Holy Spirit in His place - these things (from John 14, 15, 16, and really everything else) provide a peace for us to have. Jesus also promises struggles in this world, but promises courage for us, since He has overcome the world! All in all, this passage carries 2 incredible, life-long promises (peace and courage) that should see us through anything.
A) Many of God's promises are described as "if... then..." promises. There are 3 promises in this passage. The second promise is true for everyone. The "if" is satisfied by being in the world; the "then" is the tribulation. The first and third promises have very simple "ifs" - stay in Him (be a disciple, as seen in John 14 & 15) and take the courage! Very simple indeed! Consistently studying the Bible is how to stay in Jesus. So, I need to just keep doing what I've been doing and I'll have peace; and I have had peace! Taking courage is difficult to describe, but it hinges on focusing on the fact that Jesus has overcome the world. Keeping my mind on that fact is the foundation of the encouragement.
P) Father, I can't say much, except to say thank You. Your loving-kindness and compassion toward me, despite myself, is truly astounding. Thank You for these promises, Lord. Let me never forget them, or take them for granted. Holy Spirit, help me to stay in the Word of God consistently and continually, so that I am a true disciple of the Son. Help me keep my mind on Jesus' victory over the world. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
A) Many of God's promises are described as "if... then..." promises. There are 3 promises in this passage. The second promise is true for everyone. The "if" is satisfied by being in the world; the "then" is the tribulation. The first and third promises have very simple "ifs" - stay in Him (be a disciple, as seen in John 14 & 15) and take the courage! Very simple indeed! Consistently studying the Bible is how to stay in Jesus. So, I need to just keep doing what I've been doing and I'll have peace; and I have had peace! Taking courage is difficult to describe, but it hinges on focusing on the fact that Jesus has overcome the world. Keeping my mind on that fact is the foundation of the encouragement.
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