John 16:16-33

40 Days of John

Day 30: John 16:16-33

In today's reading, Jesus knows His disciples don't understand everything that is happening in their lives and in the world.  Jesus knows we are in the same boat.  We don't understand all that He says.  We don't always grasp God's big plans for our lives, and that can be hard.

And then, Jesus reminds us how life-changing our relationship with Him and with God is.  Jesus tells us, again, that it's through Him we find joy and peace in this crazy world.

"Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.  Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete...I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

John 16: 23-24, 33 

Jesus is telling us that we can ask things in His name because He is with God.  He wants us to "ask" Him "whatever" is on our hearts.  Because of Jesus, there are no limits to what we can put in God's hands.  Because of Jesus, each of us has a direct connection to God.  That is awesome.

As much as I don't like to be disappointed, I find comfort in the fact that God doesn't answer my prayers by granting wishes like a genie in a magical bottle.  He doesn't give us what we want.  God promises to give us what He knows we need at just the right time, His time.

And just asking and praying will help us find peace in this crazy world because God is in control...Jesus has overcome the world!

A prayer for today-

Dear God,

Thank You for Jesus who has overcome the world!  Thank You for allowing me to put everything in Your hands.  Thank You for slowing me down.  Thank You for the gift of Your peace.

Forgive me for not allowing Your peace to be a part of all that I do.

Today I pray for all those people and places, near and far who are in the middle of conflict and tension.  Lord, fill them with Your presence and Your peace.  Help us to be united in Your love as brothers and sisters in Christ.

In Jesus' name I pray,

Amen

Blessings,

*This post is part of A Mind-Maker-Upper's Everyday Reading Project.  Click here to read more.