The Road we’re on
When the ground shifts beneath our feet, how do we move forward?
Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.
This is arguably one of the most potent words Jesus ever spoke.
Jesus said it during his farewell address at the Last Supper.
One chapter earlier, Jesus washed his disciples’ feet and explained what this means (see: 13:1-20).
He foretold his betrayal by Judas (see: 13:21-30).
He told his disciples that he would be with them only a little longer and that they could not follow where he went (13:33).
He also predicted Peter’s imminent denial (13:36-38).
No wonder the disciples are troubled.
Their beloved teacher is leaving them, one of their own has turned against them, and the leader among the disciples is said to be on the verge of a significant betrayal.
It is as if the ground is shifting beneath their feet.
Perhaps many of us suffer from the same issues as the disciples—troubled hearts, disturbed by our circumstances.
Our Lord knew they were afraid of what was coming. They feared death, worried the Jews might execute them alongside Him. They were aware of the growing opposition to them in Jerusalem. Knowing the danger, they were afraid as they gathered with Him.
Jesus comforts his disciples by saying, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, trust also in me” (14:1).
Do not let...
These words hold a key to liberation from a troubled heart. Our Lord is speaking this to all of us. There is a way out of a troubled heart—this worry and fear about both death and life…
The remedy for a troubled heart lies in these two phrases: Trust in God; trust also in me.
Trust in God, who remains in control, who knows what He is doing, and who possesses infinite wisdom, power, and love. And trust in Jesus, who is the way through whom all of God’s wisdom, resources, and power are made available to you.
That is the secret.
Listen to these words and believe, from the Amplified Bible:
Do not let your heart be troubled. Afraid. Cowardly. Believe confidently in God and trust in Him. Have faith! Hold on to it! Rely on it! Keep going! And believe in Me. (John 14:1)
Ways to embody John 14:1
Pray First
When circumstances, people, or even our own abilities change, invite your heart to answer these questions:
Where does my confidence come from? What or who do I trust?
As we head into the holidays, we all have our unique circumstances around the holidays and as we wrap up the year. One way to embody John 14:1 is to create simple, meaningful moments in solitude or with community.
Find moments to pray, read scripture, or reflect on gratitude.
Remember Miracles
As doubt arises, it is essential to think back on the times you felt God’s active presence in your life.
In moments of distress, it can be challenging to remember. Consider keeping a journal and documenting times when you experience God’s peace and guidance. Or, ask a friend in the faith to tell of God’s faithfulness in their life. Let them encourage your heart again. That is why the body of Christ is so important.
This holiday season, how can we hold onto hope and trust as we practice presence with God, ourselves, and the people around us? Even as David did in the Psalms, he gave voice to his feelings and shifted his focus, commanding his soul to hope in God. At any moment, we can choose to act in faith and speak life to our souls.
Why am I so sad? Why am I so upset? I tell myself, “Wait for God’s help! You will again be able to praise him, your God, the one who will save you. Psalm 42:11 ERV
