Because…

Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. (John 16:33, NLT)

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I recently heard a man tell how his father used to put a piece of meat before their dog and then say, “No.” The dog knew he must not touch it. So, the dog would not look at the meat. Instead, the dog would look straight into the face of his master.

We could learn from that dog when it comes to taking heart in a world full of trials and sorrows.

When Jesus gave us the instruction to “take heart” there was a very important “because” attached to it. Don’t miss this! The reason you and I can take heart (no matter what happens) is because Jesus has overcome the world.

In other words, your hope and security are in what Jesus has done—not in your ability, resources, and ingenuity.

In addition, your hope and security are not in what other people may do or not do.

Bottom line, in Jesus you are a victor, not a victim.  He is all you need, so take heart!

• The ONE THING for today: Keep your focus where it needs to be—on Jesus (knowing Him, loving Him, and obeying Him, John 14:15). The rest will take care of itself.

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“There, peeping among the cloud-wrack above a dark tor high up in the mountains, Sam saw a white star twinkle for a while. The beauty of it smote his heart, as he looked up out of the forsaken land, and hope returned to him. For like a shaft, clear and cold, the thought pierced him that in the end the Shadow was only a small and passing thing: there was light and high beauty forever beyond its reach.” – Samwise, companion of Frodo

(J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King)