We are living in troubling times, but Jesus warned us that it would get this way, and it can get a lot worse before it gets any better. Beloved, Scripture says, “But woe to you, O earth and sea, for the devil has come down to you in great
wrath, because he knows that his time is short!" (Revelation 12:12 ESV).
Yes, the world is troubled, but I feel led to talk to you about something more personal. As Christ’s followers, we are troubled by what is taking place in the world, but many are also dealing with troubled hearts concerning finances, loved ones, relationships, poor health, aging, and uncertainty.
It was the night before Jesus’s crucifixion, and he was eating with his disciples; it is their last supper together. There is an air of depression in the room. These Christ-followers left a lot to follow him, giving up businesses and careers. Due to answering Jesus’s call, they had less time to spend with family—parents had aged and children had grown while they were away following Jesus. Now, Jesus is telling them that he is leaving them to go back to the Father. What will they do? How will they make a living? Who will hire them? Who will believe in them?
Credibility and security are leaving these Christ-followers as quickly as the brisk breeze blowing through the open windows of the warm upper room. Their hearts are troubled. Have you ever found yourself in this upper room of despair? I have, many times, and even more recently than lately. What are we to do?
Listen to what Jesus spoke to them on that distant, but yet familiar evening: "Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also” (John 14:1-3 ESV).
So often we get distracted by the present, and we lose sight of our future destination. Our present may be less than desirable, and even troubling, but our future is utterly astounding. Jesus even gives us help to get through the present until our future is realized. You see, Jesus and his presence is the cure for troubled hearts. Let Jesus whisper in your ear these everlasting words: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid” (John 14:27 ESV).
Beloved, receive Jesus’s peace. Even now, allow his peace to flood you and fill your being. Take in his grace-given tranquility with slow and deliberate breaths that are as vital to your spirit as oxygen is to your body. Do not allow your heart to be troubled. Sense his presence; receive his peace.