Unshaken: Resting in Christ Through Every Storm

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"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

Are you walking through a difficult season in your life right now? Maybe you’ve recently lost a job, are facing challenges in your marriage, grieving someone you love, or struggling with ongoing health issues that leave you feeling worn and weary—like you just can't seem to catch a break.

If that’s you, I want you to know this: I understand. I’m walking through my own valleys too. And I want to remind you that you’re not alone. Many of us are navigating hardships, silently carrying burdens that don’t always show. Some are still waiting for breakthrough, still pressing forward through pain. But even in these moments, there is hope. There is healing. And there is One who promises to walk with us through it all—never leaving, never forsaking us. That person is Jesus Christ!

In John 16:33, just before Jesus's crucifixion and resurrection, He had another intimate conversation with His disciples. Aware that His departure to return to His Father was imminent, He aimed to prepare them for the challenges ahead by explaining that life on earth would be difficult. They would encounter numerous trials and tribulations, but they should find courage because He has conquered the world. They should take heart, knowing they will not be alone on their journey, as He will send the Holy Spirit, the Helper, the Spirit of Truth, to guide, comfort, and teach them. (John 16:7-13).

“but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33).

Jesus had just warned His disciples that hardships were coming—trials, persecution, grief. Not exactly the kind of message anyone wants to hear. Yet He doesn’t leave them in fear. Instead, He speaks a paradox of divine comfort: “In this world you will have trouble, but take heart; I have overcome the world.” He offers both a sobering reality check and a hope-filled assurance. The phrase “take heart” isn’t a call to suppress fear with shallow cheer—it’s an invitation to courage rooted in eternal victory. Jesus acknowledges the pain ahead, but reminds them that He has already conquered the systems of sin, death, and despair.

Even before the crucifixion, He speaks of His triumph in the perfect tense—“I have overcome”—as if the outcome is sealed. That's a divine assurance. It's a comfort rooted not in their emotions, but in His nature.

So in the tension of faith and fear, suffering and sovereignty, Jesus says: “There will be trouble… but I’m greater.” And that makes all the difference.

Friends, it is the same message Jesus is telling us today.

The Lord Jesus’s message to His children—especially in seasons of suffering—is one of anchored hope, unshakable presence, and eternal perspective. He doesn’t promise ease, but He does promise Himself.

Here’s how Scripture reveals His heart for us today:

Jesus’s Message Today: “I Am With You—Take Heart”

• "In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33. Jesus recognizes our suffering but assures us that His triumph is already achieved.

• Matthew 28:20 – “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

  His presence is constant—it’s everlasting.

• Isaiah 41:10 – “Do not fear, for I am with you… I will strengthen you and help you.” A promise of divine support in times of fear.

Hope in Trials: “Your Suffering Has Purpose”

• Romans 5:3–5 – "Suffering brings about perseverance; perseverance builds character; and character leads to hope... and hope does not disappoint." Our challenges are not in vain—they are molding us.

• 2 Corinthians 4:17 – "For our minor and temporary troubles are creating for us an eternal glory that surpasses them all." Earthly struggles are generating heavenly rewards.

  
  

  Comfort for the Brokenhearted: “I See You, I Carry You”

• Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is near to those who are brokenhearted and rescues those who are crushed in spirit.” He doesn’t merely watch our suffering—He participates in it.

• Matthew 11:28–30 – “Come to me, all who are weary… and I will give you rest.” His rest is not an escape—it’s a renewal.

  
  

Encouragement in Persecution: “You Are Not Forgotten”

• - Matthew 5:10–12 – “Blessed are those who are persecuted… for great is your reward in heaven.” Being persecuted does not mean you are forsaken; it is a mark of distinction.

• - Revelation 2:10 – “Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.” Remaining faithful through hardship results in everlasting reward.

The Lord Jesus's message to us today is not an invitation to avoid suffering or ignore its existence—it is a sacred call to remain in Him even amidst the storm. We are to hold on, not by our own might, but through the quiet strength of His presence. When trials and persecution assail us, He gently reminds us, “I have overcome.” This is not a vague hope or distant comfort—it is a living, breathing promise stemming from the empty tomb, residing in the power of the Holy Spirit, and anticipating the glory of His return.

In Christ, hope is never empty—it is embodied in a Savior who endured every form of suffering and triumphed over it with love. Therefore, we rest not in our circumstances, but in the One who remains faithful through every valley. This is the abiding life: rooted in grace, strengthened by His victory, and thriving even in adversity. While trouble is inevitable, so is the presence of Jesus and in Him, we are never without hope.

I hope you have been comforted by this post. Be strengthened and encourage today.

Thank you for reading.

Yours in the Faith,

Margaret (MKO)