“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” John 16‬:‭33‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Today’s Photo-A-Day word is overcome. This photo could symbolize different things. I was able to overcome the challenges of a run. If you live in our area, you may have or have not overcome the pollen. Jesus overcame His journey to the cross. In our key verse, Jesus is talking to His disciples. He is acknowledging the trials we will experience here on earth. He is also saying to “take heart” which means courage and confidence because He overcame the world. I encourage you to read the full passage; John 16:16-33. I also encourage you to take a moment to listen to the Story of the song “Overcome” by Jeremy Camp. Some of the lyrics sing: “We will overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony.”

A testimony comes from a test. Jesus knows the trials and tests we are facing. What trial are are you facing today? Do you feel like running from it? God has not abandoned you. What if we courageously ran towards our trial with God? In the message version of verses 31-33: “Jesus answered them, ‘Do you finally believe? In fact, you’re about to make a run for it—saving your own skins and abandoning me. But I’m not abandoned. The Father is with me. I’ve told you all this so that trusting me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I’ve conquered the world.’” Let’s pray.

Dear God, I am so thankful You have never left me. Help me to see, even through my trials and tests that You are right beside me. Forgive me for running away. Give me the confidence I need to run towards my trial because I know I can do all things through You. I worship the one that has conquered the grave. In Jesus’s Name, Amen.