We live in anxious times. Just turn on your TV for 5 minutes. If you weren’t anxious before, even a short summary of the daily news will cause you stress.
But, Jesus wants to calm our anxiety and our stress.
Don’t let your heart be troubled. Believe in God. Believe also in me.
John 14:1
The first sentence in John 14 reminds us, do not let your heart be troubled. Jesus knows that when life is hard we tend to worry and have anxiety.
This verse was spoken by Jesus to his disciples just hours before his prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane and the betrayal by Judas.
Just as with the disciples, most of the time, we also stress over situations we cannot control. We stress because others (spouses, co-workers, friends, kids, politicians, leaders) do not act or react the way we think is right. We must remember we cannot control how others react, we can only control our response.
We can take comfort in the knowledge that God is in control. We may not understand all the circumstances or reasons for what is happening in our lives or around us, but God has a purpose. We do not need to fear God’s plan, we need to trust him.
There’s more to this verse than just don’t let your heart be troubled. Jesus also says if you believe in God, believe in me. When you feel anxious and worried, put your faith and trust in God. Do not trust rely on yourself.
Finally, there is a promise for the future. In verses 2-3, Jesus promises that in heaven (the father’s house) there will be mansions and we will have a permanent home with peace and no more worries. Jesus is coming again to take us to the father’s house.
If your heart is anxious today, remember Jesus conquered death, Jesus defeated sin, and Jesus lives within you. Trust these words from Jesus, “Do not let your heart be trouble.” In our modern language Jesus is telling you, “Don’t worry, I’ve got this.”
