“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, ESV). Jesus had just given a long talk to his disciples and encouraged them that they will have joy and be able to ask anything from the Father in Jesus’ name. Then he explained that he taught these things so that they may have peace. But these words in verse 33 are not just for the disciples; they are for all his followers. When we abide in him we may have peace even though outside, in the world, we have tribulation. This is a great description of life during the overlap of the former age and the kingdom of God. Since Jesus brought the kingdom when he came, his followers get to experience the kingdom inside themselves. Thus, in the midst of a turbulent world we have something that no other group can have: deep inner peace established by God. He gave us the Holy Spirit so that we may peace that passes understanding.
Do you think of Jesus’ teachings as the way that you may have peace? How much are you able to abide in that peace? How can you grow in peace in Christ?
I hope you will check out my new book on the ultimate purpose of the Christian life (clue: “heaven” is not a sufficient answer.)
