Take Heart In Jesus
Daily Rays of Hope #162
Scripture For Today:
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” - John 16:33 NIV
There is nothing like the peace of God. In the midst of his foretelling of his death, burial, and resurrection, Jesus comforts the disciples. He tells them to take heart. In other words, He is telling them to be courageous despite the trouble they will face in this world. He is lining things up supernaturally for them to receive that He will be gone from them. Like a good Father, he is empowering them to stand on their two feet and face the trials of this world, knowing that God is with them.
We serve a God who sees us. He knows that we are to face trials and tribulations in this world. He knows that life will not be easy. So He tells us to take heart. Jesus, like our Father, is comforting His disciples with this powerful message of hope in the midst of grief.
Let us take heart today that our God is with us. He sees us. He knows us. We are not alone. We may be sad for a moment and grieving for a season, but we are children of God. We are loved and we are not alone.
There are times when one must endure the pain and the grief of old seasons. That is a natural part of our walk with God. When Jesus says that “I and the Father are one”, He is both teaching and comforting the disciples in the fact that even though He will be alone without them, He will not be alone without God. He may be one in body, but the Lord will be with Him.
Likewise, let us take heart today that Jesus has overcome the world. Despite the trials and the circumstances that you may be facing right now, He is still God.
Three Practical Ways To Walk Out This Word Daily
1. Anchor Yourself in the Peace of Christ
When fear, anxiety, or uncertainty shows up, remind yourself that peace is not a feeling — it’s a promise. Jesus said, “In Me you may have peace.” That means peace is found in His presence, His Word, and His truth. Make it a practice to pause during moments of worry and speak His Word over your heart. Meditate on scriptures that reinforce your identity in Him and remind you of His victory. Start your day with a five-minute moment of stillness, where you breathe deeply, thank Him for being near, and declare His peace over your life.
2. Embrace Courage as an Act of Faith
Jesus didn’t suggest we “feel brave” — He said to take heart. Courage is a decision to trust Him, even when everything around you looks shaky. Choose to move forward even when it’s hard. Speak life over yourself and others. When you feel weak or discouraged, confess that Christ has already overcome the world. Let that truth inform your decisions, posture, and speech throughout the day. Small steps taken in faith lead to large victories in the Spirit.
3. Refuse Isolation — Remember You Are Not Alone
Jesus prepared the disciples to walk in power after His departure. Though they would no longer see Him in the flesh, His Spirit would be with them always. When trials come, don’t isolate yourself emotionally or spiritually. Reach out to trusted believers. Stay plugged into community and prayer. Let others remind you of who you are and what Christ has done. God is with you, and He often sends people to reflect that presence when you need it most.
Closing Encouragement:
Today, take heart. You serve a victorious King who has overcome the world. No matter what you’re facing, His peace is real, His love is unshakable, and His presence is near. You are not forgotten. You are not forsaken. You are an overcomer in Christ Jesus. Let His words strengthen your heart and guide your steps today.