FOCUS SCRIPTURE: Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. ~ John 14:1 KJV
SUMMARY: This message begins “The Journey to Transformation” series, focusing on spiritual preparation through God’s Word, during this Passover season. God prepares His people for what’s coming, meeting both natural and spiritual needs, as seen when He provided for Abraham (Genesis 22:14), revealing Himself as Jehovah-Jireh, the Lord who sees and provides.
In times of trouble, just as He provided for Abraham, God speaks peace. The focus text, John 14:1, contains Jesus’ words to His disciples (John 13-17) on the night before His crucifixion. Knowing they would face His departure, betrayal, and denial, He urged them not to let their hearts be troubled but to anchor their faith securely in both God and Himself, trusting His dependable Word which offers hope like a steadfast anchor for the soul (Hebrews 6:18-20).
Jesus’ command, “Let not your heart be troubled,” applies equally to the “troubles” we face today (spiritual, emotional, material, and relational). Let’s take a look at the example at the Pool of Bethesda, “The House of Mercy” found in John 5:1-9. This passage of scriptures illustrates
- Four (4) Things We Should Avoid During Trouble
- Avoid Selfishness
- Mercy provides compassion where there is selfishness.
- Avoid Superstition
- Truth where there is superstition.
- Avoid Competition
- Grace where there is competition.
- Avoid Despair
- Hope where there is despair.
Further addressing spiritual trouble, as seen when Jesus was troubled in spirit regarding Lazarus (John 11:33) due to sin’s impact, grief, and His mission, involves relying on Christ’s redemption from sin, the Holy Ghost’s gift of love (John 14:15-18), and trust in God’s provision. We navigate difficulties by trusting and obeying God’s Word (Psalm 119:105). Ultimately, Jesus assures believers of a peace distinct from the world’s – His peace is divine and unwavering even in trials, freely given through faith (John 14:27); calming our fears.
Supporting Scriptures: Genesis 22:14; Hebrews 6:18-20; John 13-17; John 5:1-9; John 11:33; Psalm 119:105; John 14:15-18; John 14:27
Positive Affirmation: God’s Peace Calms My Fears