In Hard Times, Remember The Cross
Today’s Verse:
John 16:33 ESV
(Jesus said) “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.
Jesus is not trying to paint a false picture for His disciples—or for us. Life is not going to be all roses. This world is a broken place, and as we live in this fallen creation, we will experience trouble, loss, and pain. Jesus doesn’t sugarcoat these truths. But Christ doesn’t stop there. He declares a greater word: Take heart.
Why? Because the battle has already been won. Jesus has triumphed over the world—not just in word but in deed—through His death and resurrection. Our peace is not based on how well we are doing but on Who has hold of us. In Him we have a peace that can stand in the midst of storms, because our future is sure.
When life is hard, we remember: The One who defeated sin and death and the devil is with us. The cross proclaims His love. The empty tomb proclaims His power. And His word proclaims our hope: He has overcome.
Prayers
A Prayer for Today:
Lord Jesus, You know the troubles I face. When my heart grows weary, remind me of Your victory. Give me peace that is rooted in You, not in my circumstances. Help me take heart, trusting that You are with me and that nothing can separate me from Your loveIn Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Apostles’ Creed:
I believe in God, the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth.
And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended into hell. The third day He rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. From thence He will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
The Lord’s Prayer:
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven; give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.
Luther’s Morning Prayer:
I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands, I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen.
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