"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33, NKJV)
PONDER THIS!
In this verse Jesus is speaking to His followers telling them not to be surprised or alarmed when trouble comes. He tells them, as long as you live in this life, there will be trouble and tribulation. Yet, before you become pessimistic or cynical about life, "be of good cheer," because He has overcome the world and all the trouble in it.
This is God's word for you today, "be of good cheer." God through the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus, has overcome every trouble and obstacle you can and will face.
It is very easy to become pessimistic and cynical about life when you look at all that's wrong in the world. If you allow yourself to focus on all that is wrong in the world, you can become a very bitter and negative person. Yet, when you think about and know, all that you might face, both now and in the future, has already been overcome, a feeling of joy and peace should come over you.
1. How are you facing your problems today? Are you feeling defeated and depressed?
2. Are you walking in faith or in fear about the future?
3. Do you see yourself, through Christ Jesus, as victorious or a victim?
You can "be of good cheer" today, because your Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ, has made it possible for you to claim victory over every adverse situation. You do not have to go around holding your head down, complaining about all that is going on around you. You can rejoice today because the victory is already yours in Christ Jesus. Be of good cheer today. The battle is not yours, it's the Lords, and He has already won. Therefore, CHEER UP!