John 14:1, Jesus says these powerful words:
“Let not your hearts be troubled.
Believe in God; believe also in me.”
By Nell Reece
In this short verse, Jesus offers us comfort and assurance. He speaks to us in the midst of our anxieties, worries, and troubles, and He says, “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” He knows us. He made us from dirt and he knows that in a world filled with uncertainty, fear, and chaos, we have many opportunities to become troubled.
Here, Jesus comforts us with His words. He wants us to rise above our troubles and put our trust in Him.
Proverbs, 3:5-6 (ESV): “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” These verses remind us that our trust in God should be whole-hearted and unwavering – instead of relying on our limited human understanding, or our own plans, we need to TRUST and acknowledge Him. Acknowledge means (to know, learn to know, to perceive, to perceive and see, find out, to know by EXPERIENCE).
Then Jesus goes on and invites us to believe in God and believe in Him. Belief is not just about recognizing that there is a God; it’s about putting our faith and trust in Him. It’s about surrendering our lives to His divine plan and purpose (Jer 29:11), even when we don’t understand it fully. When we surrender our plans and desires to Him, He will direct our paths and lead us in the way that is best for us. Why? Because HE KNOWS our future!
We know that Jesus is the only source of hope, peace, and salvation. No matter what challenges we face, Jesus is the answer. He is the One who can calm our troubled hearts and provide an anchor in the storms of life.
But how do we do this? How do we not “let our hearts be troubled”? By getting to know Him…We need to spend time in prayer, seek His guidance, and READ and study His Word. The more we know Him, the more we will trust Him. The more we trust Him, the more our hearts will find peace and rest and trust in His direction.
Believing in God and in Jesus also means believing the Bible (His Words to us) and His promises. Throughout the Scriptures, God has revealed His faithfulness and His love for His people. He has promised to be with us always, to never leave us nor forsake us. When we encounter challenges and trials, we can hold on to His promises, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill them.
In Isaiah, 41:10 we read: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” These words give us comfort and assurance and remind us that God is always present with us. In times of fear and distress, He promises to be our strength and our help. He provides us with the support and strength we need to face any situation.
As we go through life, we need to remember those words of Jesus: “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.” We know that our trust in Him is not in vain. We trust in God’s unchanging character, His faithfulness, compassion, wisdom, mercy, protection, love….
So today, let us cast aside our fears and worries. And then, according to Phil 4:7 in the Good News Translation
“And God’s peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus”. We all want to be safe, don’t we? That’s why we lock our doors at night.
I pray this short talk encouraged you today and that the truth of God’s Word will help you find peace and comfort when you are tired and discouraged.
Lord, we know that the path of life can sometimes be challenging and filled with trials. But we find peace in knowing that you are with us, even in the middle of our fears and doubts. You draw us to yourself; you remind us to trust in you and find comfort in the hope you offer.
Holy Spirit, we ask You for wisdom. Help us to rely on Your presence and comfort us in these times. We surrender our doubts, anxieties, and uncertainties to You. Help us to find peace and comfort in Your unfailing love and give us the courage to live each day with renewed hope. We know that your steadfast love never ceases and Your mercies are new every morning. Amen.
