Victory

“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33)

I sometimes feel sorry for the doctor’s that work at Children’s (or anywhere for that matter). They are limited by test results, medical research and prescribed courses of action, and they are often the bearers of bad news, through no fault of their own. Yes, there are times that they bring good news and report miracles, but the news, whether good or bad, is usually out of their hands. Sometimes problems are too big for even them to fix.

Jesus warned the disciples that they would face trouble in this life—sickness, persecution, loss and heartache. But, praise God, He did not stop there! Take heart! I have overcome it all! What does this mean for the parent of a sick child? What does it mean for you? I can tell that it doesn’t mean that “everything will be ok”—at least not on this side of Heaven. Can I tell you something? I kind of hate it when people say that. I know they mean well, but we don’t know what tomorrow holds. It’s false hope. What’s real hope? Real hope is knowing that God is greater than it all. There isn’t a problem we face, that God hasn’t already won the victory over. When it is too great for us, it won’t overwhelm Him. I don’t pretend to fully understand God’s purposes for allowing suffering, but I know that I can leave the weight of sorrow in His hands. His shoulders are broad, and His mercy is great.

“I heard an [His] voice say, ‘Now I will take the load from your shoulders; I will free your hands from their heavy tasks’” (Psalm 81:5-6).