A hurricane is coming.

It’s a level 4 at the moment. But there is always the chance that it will go farther out to sea and lose strength as it churns up the East Coast. That’s our prayer.

Trouble surrounds me on all sides; many of my friends are struggling for provision and good health. Some agonize through grief.

Life can be hard. But Jesus gave this promise:

 “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)

The King James Version says, “. . . but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

Seriously? Did Jesus tell us to laugh when bad things happen?

Big sigh.

I don’t know why it was translated this way, maybe there is something Greek scholars know I don’t, but one of the definitions for the Greek word translated here is. . . wait for it . . .

Have Courage.

“In this world you will have trouble. But have courage! I have overcome the world.

Doesn’t that make more sense? I love it!

Have Courage.

Courage is audacity to believe that no matter what, God will bring us through. Somehow.

He’ll lessen the winds and turn the storm out to sea, or He will shelter us through the storm and provide once it’s over.

Are you facing a storm in your life?

Jesus promised two things in John 16:33.

1. He promised that we would have trouble in this world.
2. And He promised that He has overcome the world.

His “overcoming the world” does not mean no hurricanes or disease or struggle. It means we can have courage and peace in the eye of the storm because He loves us and He has already died for us. We will not die but live, and will proclaim what the Lord has done. (Psalm 118:17)

If you’re facing a life storm today I pray you courage, audacity to believe God’s goodness and shelter. I pray peace as He covers you with His wings, and I pray you feel His arms tangible and present as He loves you through it all.

Leave a comment: How can I pray for you through your storm?

Jesus loves you,