Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 Jesus’ promise to us

John 16 :21-33

 v33 “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.”  

 Jesus tells his disciples of the arrival of the Holy Spirit and reminds them not to fall away once he departs. He says that the Holy Spirit shall guide them in all the truth and in all their ways. What comes from the Holy Spirit comes from our Lord.  (v15).

The disciples were told that they would have to go through difficult times. And this would be what the world would be seeing too.  Believing in God does not give you an easy life. As is stated, you will experience grief and mourn but your grief will turn into joy.

We are at a time of uncertainty and grief. We hear of people close to us or far away suffering or being fatal victims of the Corona virus. Even a few of us have been affected by the deadly virus. How many times have we cried out to the Lord to help us out? I’m not sure if this is happening to strengthen our faith or this is the work of the demon. But we should definitely use this as a time to strengthen our relationship with God, not turn  away from God.

No matter what, Gods has promised us that if we believe in him, he will comfort us during difficult times (Psalms 119 : 50) . God has a purpose for each one of us and God works for the good of those who love him (Romans 8 : 28) . Let us be strong and build our faith in the Lord even during this period of suffering. The Lord has overcome the world and the troubles that we face now will be followed by a time of joy.

PRAYER

Lord, help us to grow in faith and not sway from being your strong followers during our times of grief and mourning or times of joy. Amen

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

Make us useful each day for your purpose O Lord as the world is going through tough times.

Philip Varghese

Carmel Mar Thoma Church, Boston

Christian Education Forum, Diocese of NAE of the Mar Thoma Church

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