As I begin to write this blog and update you with my life my mind races to come up with words that are adequate to describe what is going on. My heart has been heavy and my mind uneasy. Watching the news is not the highlight of my day. I usually try to avoid it because it makes me mad, sad, or anxious. However, with social media it is impossible to avoid news.

I hear read so many things each day. Natural disasters, political unrest, murder, sickness, tyranny, and anything else unjust and deceitful. My heart aches. It’s so easy to become overwhelmed, shut down, or apathetic. My immediate nature says to ignore it and worry about yourself. You have too many things going on. Yes, it is true, I have a lot on my mind. We all have issues. But the world. My generation and time in history is hurting. What are my issues compared to others?

All the hurt, injustice and pain in the world, I remember Jesus words in the book of John.

“I have said these things to you that you may have peace. In a world of tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

Jesus spoke these words to His disciples shortly before He was going to be killed. The disciples did not know what was ahead. They saw injustice, hurt, and defeat. I often wonder if they remember anything Jesus told them. They were in hiding. Waiting to be killed. They lost heart. Their brother, teacher, and friend was killed by the government. The same government that hated their people. Ruled in tyranny. Jesus was betrayed by a friend.

I am like those disciples. Fearful and forgetful. They forgot Jesus’ words. How many times do I forget Jesus words and loose heart? Jesus’ death is not the end of the story. He rose again. Prophecies came true. His words are true. His victory of death on the cross and rising from the dead is our peace. He died to give life and hope.

Did the disciples stop after they felt overwhelmed? No. They went on to spread the Gospel and equip the saints. Doing everything Jesus told them. How many times do I stop or give up?  I want to encourage you with Jesus’ words. Take heart. He has overcome. Pray and ask God what you are supposed to do. Step out in victory from the cross. Jesus has won.