Feb 22 2007
Overcoming the World
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 (New Living Translation)
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.
John 16:33 (New King James Version)
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.
John 16:33 (The Message)
A good friend of mine just lost his brother, other friends are fighting illness. We struggle with finances and job difficulties. In this world life is always a struggle. Fortunately God tells us that He has overcome the world so take heart, God will stand by you at all times. No matter what happens in our lives.
This scripture begs the question for me of whether or not we are expected to overcome things of the world too. I know that we will not overcome them all, but are we expected to overcome the things we recognize as sin and shortcomings in our lives.
I am experience quite a bit of things, a few health issues, a marriage that is heading for divorce, financial challenges, and recently an attempt by an intruder to enter my home. My husband and I have been separated for a little over 6 months and I have not felt safe in my “inner-city” apartment ever since. I don’t want a divorce. He is the one who is saying this is our only recourse. Given all that I am face with trying to overcome daily, what keeps me going is knowing that God has worked miracles for me in the past and He is able to do anything but fail. I’m so glad I joined this listserve. I look forward to seeing what is in store for me everytime I open my outlook. There it is - Daily Scripture. Talk about a sound investment! And…it’s free just like God’s word and His promises.
I took this passage as meaning that there are those things of the world, and they may bring us down, but we should remember that God watches over us no matter what. I should remember that more often myself, as I am often let down by people and things here.
It’s always a challenge of the flesh to keep our focus straight ahead on what really counts, Jesus. Some of us, including myself, get so wrapped up in our daily responsibilities, selfishness and problems, our eyes and thoughts seem to get fixed on the side lines (or our own heads), which is quite a dangerous place for me at times. Jesus overcame the world….If we are of Him, staying focused on him, by his strength, we also can overcome the world.
Dear Father, place in me the mind of Christ, so that I will focus on your will for my life and the lives of others. Amen!
Things are going good for me right now. I often read these blogs and pray for all your petitions and problems. God listens, but more importantly, God reacts. The more you talk to God, the involved He gets with your life. Give Him attention, and He’ll give you attention.
Sean S