BE OF GOOD CHEER

The only place you can have and enjoy perfect peace is in Christ Jesus. The peace Jesus gives guarantees a sense of assurance and self-confidence, such that no matter what is happening around you, you just know 'It is well with your soul'. The world we live in is full of uncertainty because its values are not the same values generated in Christ Jesus. The values of Christ's Kingdom deliver peace of mind and tranquility in any given situation.

Reference: John 16:33 New King James Version (NKJV)

'These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.'

Jesus' words are not ordinary. In our reference, He was specific about two places or domains. 'In Christ' is a realm. 'In the world' is another realm. If you are in Christ, you function in both realms. No wonder the Bible says, 'I have given them your word...for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it' (John 17:14-16 NIV).

As a Christian, you must know who you are and whose you are. Your Father controls the universe, loves you and has your best interests at heart. Imagine what happens if you live with this truth for long. It will transform your mindset for good. You'll never live a worried life or let your heart be troubled in the world, no matter what happens. Jesus already told us, 'Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid' (John 14:27 NIV). In other words, don't entertain worry; you do have my peace!

Even though you are in the world, you can choose not to absorb or keep your mind focused on the negativities and evil happenings in the world by dwelling and meditating on the Word, and renewing your mind with it. That's where the supernatural peace Jesus has given us is sourced from. And the beauty of this peace, is that it doesn't depend on conditions, news and circumstances. Why? Because you are a representative of another Kingdom which is superior to the world and its realities transcend worldly concerns. You are an ambassador for Christ's Kingdom, functioning in this world with your Kingdom outlook and carrying your Kingdom atmosphere everywhere you go.

In the world of uncertainty, you're the light of hope to those who are troubled or living in fear around you. So you must shine and give hope to others by living your life in such a way that those who don't believe in Jesus can see that there is something you have that is greater than what is obtainable in the world; something wonderful; something different; something more than gold; something they'll be curious to know about; something they'll start desiring for themselves, too.

Today and always, make every effort to live, think, act and walk consciously in the light of God's Word and be of good cheer, enjoying the peace of Christ, who overcame the world for you. Remember, you can't be disadvantaged, for greater is He that lives in you, than any challenge you meet in the world.

Scripture Reading - Psalm 91; John 14:1; Philippians 4:6-7; Colossians 3:16; 2 Timothy 1:7.

Guided Prayer:

Everlasting Father, thank you for the gift and presence of your Son Jesus, in my life. He is the source of extraordinary peace, all goodness and unconditional love I enjoy. I'm grateful for the peace and safety I have in the midst of unrest in the world. And I pray that you lighten up the fearful and the vulnerable, bring peace among the nations of the world, and establish divine healing and health in all our dwellings. Lord, you hear the cries of those who are stuck in trouble, distress and tragedy; attend to our prayers for those whose lives are affected by unexpected misfortune. Strengthen them in their hour of need and grant them perseverance and courage to overcome every tragedy, in Jesus' Name, Amen!