I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.
What was Jesus referring to when he said this to his followers? He was talking about a time when people would kill Christians thinking they’re doing a service for God. It would be a time of sin running rampant in the world. A time of unbelief, and a time of grief.
Yet Jesus also promised that the Holy Spirit, our Advocate, would be here to “prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment” (John 16:8). He promised that the Spirit of Truth would guide us and prepare us for what’s ahead.
It seems like the world often rejoices at our grief as Christians these days. It’s all around us in the public sphere. In the media, in our schools, in the workplace. Yet we need not be stressed or fearful about this. Jesus said it would happen (John 16:20).
He also promised to return one day and turn our grief to joy. He said, “I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy” (v. 22).
In the meantime, he invites us to come to him with every anxious thought and challenging situation. He intercedes on our behalf before our Father in heaven (Hebrews 7:25). He saves to the uttermost against every force of darkness and offers us an indestructible eternal life.
That’s why his closing promise in John 16 is one we take to heart today: “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.”
Let’s pray:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for sending the Advocate, Comforter, and Counselor we have in the Holy Spirit. Help me be aware of the Spirit’s activity in my life each day—especially when I’m tempted to be anxious about what’s happening in the world. Thank you for the promise of your Son’s return as King of Kings and Lord of Lords that will bring true righteousness on earth. May I live in peace with an eternal perspective today and help others to receive your peace as well. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.