Healing And Hope

In John 16, Jesus speaks to his disciples concerning His departure from this world. This will be a very trying time for them. He tells them when He leaves there will be a time of grief that will be followed by a time of joy (v 22). He reassures them further saying that the troubles of this world are not greater than Him.

“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)

These words were a comfort to the disciples then and to us in this age. We need these words from Jesus because throughout our lives, we will encounter trials and tribulations that challenge our faith, strength, and resilience. In trying times, it can be easy to lose hope and feel overwhelmed by the weight of our circumstances. However, as believers, we have a powerful source of hope and healing: God's Word.

When we face trials, it's natural to look for hope and encouragement wherever we can find it. People seek comfort in various places, from friends and family to self-help books and motivational speakers. While these sources can offer temporary relief, true and lasting hope comes from God and His Word.

Psalm 119:114 says, "Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word." The Word of God is a solid and unchanging source of hope. It reminds us that no matter how challenging our circumstances may be, God is our refuge, our haven of rest. Placing our hope in God's Word allows us to find comfort and strength during times tough times.

Trials often bring a sense of darkness into our lives. It can feel like we are stumbling through life, unsure of the path ahead. Yet, God's Word serves as a light to guide us through the darkness. Psalm 119:105 proclaims, "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." God's Word illuminates our hearts and minds with truth, providing clarity and direction when we can’t seem to see a way forward. It reveals God's promises, reminding us of His faithfulness. When we immerse ourselves in Scripture, we find the guidance and assurance we need to navigate the trials that come our way.

Trials can break our spirits and leave us feeling emotionally wounded. Anxiety usually accompanies these moments and creates a barricade to healing that needs to be overcome. As we open the pages of the Bible, we read accounts of individuals who faced profound hardships and found healing through their faith in God. These stories remind us that we are not alone in our struggles, and God is close to us, ready to mend our broken hearts. Psalm 34:18 assures us, "The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit."

Trials can also leave us feeling physically and emotionally weak. Our strength is depleted, and we long for the fortitude to press on. God's Word offers the promise of divine strength in our weakness. This is good news – we don’t have to persevere in our strength alone.

2 Corinthians 12:9 says, "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." When we are at our weakest, God's grace empowers us to endure and even thrive in the midst of trials.

One of the greatest gifts God's Word provides in times of trials is the promise of peace. This peace is not dependent on external circumstances. It’s peace that defies our circumstances.

Philippians 4:6-7 tells us, "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." The Creator of the universe offers His peace to fill our hearts and minds, granting us serenity even when life's storms rage around us.

Trials can make us feel as if our future is uncertain and bleak. Yet, God's Word offers a hope that extends beyond our current circumstances, even beyond this life. Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us of God's plans for our future: "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end." This promise assures us that even though our trials are with us, we can trust that our future is secure in His hands.

Trials test our endurance and perseverance. They require us to cling to our faith in God, even when circumstances say give in. Hebrews 10:36 encourages us to endure: "For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise."

God's Word strengthens our faith and reminds us of the reward that awaits those who endure through trials. It teaches us that our faith is not in vain, and that God's promises are sure.

Lord Jesus, you came into the world as one of us, and suffered as we do. As I go through the trials of life, help me to realize that you are always with me and in all my circumstances; that there is nothing about me that you do not see and know; comfort me in my afflictions as only you can. I will rest in the security of your loving embrace. Amen.