I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.]
John 16:33 AMPC
When I read this beautiful verse from John 16 tonight, I felt that it was something that needed no further explanation! It speaks of the certainty of “tribulation and trials and distress and frustration,” in this world. It’s a given! Tough things will come your way if you’re a citizen of planet earth – EVEN (and dare I say ESPECIALLY?) when you’re a Christian, loving and serving the Lord Jesus. Jesus Himself was never insulated from difficulties. He had to deal with frustrating people like the religious leaders. He knew what it was to be very tired after ministering to the needy multitudes. He understood the pain of loss and rejection. Isaiah 58 is a description of what He ultimately faced on the cross at the end of His life here on earth. He understands “tribulation and trials and distress and frustration!”
But then John 16:33 tells us to “be of good cheer, take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted!” because JESUS has already overcome it and deprived it of power to harm us. He has conquered it for us. I feel like this is the place where I need to say “AMEN!” Nothing more to explain.
Trouble will come, but Jesus has already deprived it of power to cause us eternal harm by offering the Gift of Eternal Life through Jesus, His Son. Now that’s great news!