John 14:1 “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.”
Before the crucifixion, Jesus told His disciples that He was going to leave them. He was going to go away and they could not follow Him now, He said. They were perplexed and did not understand.
There are also many things that are happening in our world today – such as the war between Russia and Ukraine – that leaves many believers perplexed and troubled. Some are more directly being affected by these problems than others. Believers often do not understand why God allows the problems we are now seeing in the world.
The good news is that He already knows all about it and He has not lost control. Believers that know the Bible should be the most free of anxiety and stress. They can have a song in their heart even though the world is falling apart.
This kind of peace can only come from keeping your eyes on the Savior: “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:2). Jesus is our Example.
This verse reveals that Christ’s key to victory when facing the Cross was that He looked forward to what the results of His suffering would bring and the promised position that He would have when His work was completed. We also should look forward to what we will have – soon.
John 14:2,3 tells us more of the reasons why our hearts should not be troubled. Jesus said that: “In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”
Yes, He said that there will be trouble in this world for believers – but it is only temporary! There is a glorious future to look forward to. Remember also what Paul said in II Corinthians 4:17: “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.“
Stay in the Book daily and your faith will be increased. Read two or three chapters each day – some from the Psalms and some from the Old and New Testaments. When applicable, seek to obey what you read. Also – keep going to church services.
Remember God’s promise in Isaiah 26:3: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” This does not mean your world will be peaceful – but your heart and mind will be at peace – enabling you to think clearly and not in a panic mode.