"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)
For the longest time, I would pay attention to the worries, they weirdness, and the "what ifs?" of life.
There were constant premonitions in my flesh, and dreaded outcomes would flood into my imagination.
I kept thinking that I had to respond to every "what if?" and "what about?".
This was a big challenge for me when I was facing unjust persecution in courtrooms.
At first, I could not understand why God had allowed me to be found guilty, when all I had done was sit in a city council meeting.
Then it really occured to me how important it was for me to understand the gift of righteousness, that it is a gift, and that it does not matter what happens to me in this world. Evil people are going to do evil things, but they do not have the power to slow me down.
"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)
There is going to be rough-riding and rough-housing in the world. This world is a fallen place filled with fallen people.
But I am risen with Christ Jesus (Colossians 3:1), and we are above every circumstance and setback in this life.
It's OK if I don't understand what is going on all the time. It's OK if I get worried or upset. It's OK if I start asking "what if" and "what about".
However, it's not my job, it's not my problem to answer those questions.
God is Love. That is established. And just as I receive His gift of righteousness apart from works, so too He loves me apart from works, efforts, thoughts, or feelings on my part.
Amen! 🙏
ReplyDelete