“YOU SHALL HAVE TRIBULATION”
“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
The troubles, trials and tribulations that afflict the people of God
in this world are no different than those that do not know Christ are
afflicted with. However there is a vast difference in the purpose and
effect of the same. These drive the unbeliever (in his mind and heart)
farther and farther from God while the child of God is drawn closer
and closer to God - “It is good for me that I have been afflicted;
that I might learn thy statutes” Psalms 119:71. It is amazing
that God in His infinite wisdom works all things (even the things we
esteem to be evil and pangs of sin) to our good and His glory! In this
world even in the midst of tribulation we have peace in Him because
He has spoken unto us these comforting words “be of good cheer; I have
overcome the world.” It is imperative to the sheep to often and consistently
hear the voice of the Shepherd or else we would despair. Although adversity
and unanswerable circumstances (that is to us) befall us in our pilgrimage
through this life we take courage and are assured that all is well and
answerable in His sovereign will and purpose for us. These trials and
testings, by His sovereign command, bow to His eternal purpose in the
supply of His children’s timely needs. Although we often fail and are
discouraged and are sick in heart we are reminded that “He shall
not fail nor be discouraged” Isaiah 42:4. The Lord Jesus
Christ came into this world to overcome it for us, even put away our
sin. This being the case, how then could any trouble, trial or affliction
be our enemy? The thing might be evil in itself but as it is in the
hand of our Sovereign it is a blessing in its purpose! Does this mean
that we must understand all the twists and turns that compose our life?
Absolutely not! But this we will eventually understand to some degree
if we are truly His “In Me you have peace; In the world you shall have
tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
Tommy
