But Take Heart
Hello, my friends!
It's been a long time since I last wrote. I've neglected it, honestly. When I have thought about making time to write, I have found it hard to centralize on a topic. And truthfully, I have been focusing on finding peace amongst much tragedy and division in our country. Turning to God's Word.
I've realized, though, that above everything, as we all process so much (including our personal troubles), we must keep our eyes on Jesus. I feel like we have resorted to this as the last hope. And actually even going a step further and bypassing it all together! Reading things like "we don't need thoughts & prayers” is disheartening. Have we lost all hope in God? Do we really think we can fix what is wrong in this world or with people?
This is just another reminder that we are not of this world. We wish our world to be a safe place for us, but we are only here momentarily. This is not our eternity. We know that we will face all kinds of trouble.
John 16:33 says:
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."
Philippians 3:18-20 says:
18 For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ.
19 Their destiny is destruction, their God is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things.
20 But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ,
That should be our mindset. We are citizens of heaven. Constantly recalling the Word of God enduring while here in this world. Keeping our Eyes on Jesus allows us to take whatever trouble and lay it at His feet. We would like to think we have the solutions and the capability and strength to overcome on our own. But the truth is we don't. Why else would He constantly offer rest for our souls?
Matthew 11:28-30 says:
28 "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
Easier said than done. The challenging part is taking that step, from knowing to doing. We have made ourselves dependent on our abilities to make things happen for ourselves. It's normal, especially if life has had its fair share of setbacks. But turning to Jesus first for His peace, clarity, and wisdom to react even when things are not happening as we would like is the step of faith. Our faith is not shaken. Maybe our mode or emotions are jolted, but not our faith. Our trust continues to be in Jesus because God is in control. Life is full of different seasons- good, great, bad, hard. And still, we have this peace that transcends all understanding.
Philippians 4:6-7 says:
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
It's part of the mystery of God. He reaches our hearts and minds like nothing in this world can. And we can stand firm in knowing and believing His Word. We find strength in the Word of God. It is our defense and firm foundation, increasing our faith. Not only does He show us that in His Word, but also time and time again in our life. He is always in control.
I'd like to leave you with a few more encouraging scripture. Whether you fall back on it first, last, or somewhere between, the Word is the one thing that never ever changes. It's the hope we need more of.
