Living Free Every Day®

 

Peace and Confidence

Today's Scripture

"I have told you these things, so that in Me you 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 AMP

Thoughts for Today

Physical death is not the only loss in life with which we must learn to cope. Other losses bring intense pain as well. Some are sudden; others are gradual. Either way, they demand our attention and bring pain into our lives. You have probably experienced at least one of these other kinds of losses in your life. These difficult times might include divorce, miscarriage, post-abortion distress, job loss, moving, natural disaster … and a host of other things.

In today's Scripture, Jesus cautions us not to be surprised when we have problems — "tribulations and trials and distress and frustration." That is part of life on this earth. He lived among us and faced much tribulation, but we can be encouraged because he overcame the world — and he will help us through every trial we might have to face. In him we can have "perfect peace and confidence" — even amidst the storm.

Consider this …

God might give you the opportunity to minister to others who have suffered a difficult loss. This week we've discussed some principles for helping people who have experienced the death of a loved one. Many of those same principles can be adapted to help people struggling in other situations. As we learn to experience peace and confidence in Jesus though every situation, we will be more prepared to help others do the same.

Prayer

Father, thank you that no matter what is going on around us, because of Jesus we can experience peace and confidence. Teach me to trust in you in every situation … and to help others who are experiencing trials. In Jesus' name …

These thoughts were drawn from …

Handling Loss and Grief: How to Face Losses in Life and Grieve Christianly by Raymond T. Brock, Ed.D. This study teaches participants what the Bible has to say about handling the losses of life. It offers biblical coping methods for facing loss.

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