There Is Hope!

In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – Jesus

Addictions. Alcoholism, Chronic Depression, Anxiety Disorders. Jesus said we would have trouble in this world, and these illnesses are some of the most difficult challenges we face. The enemy wants us to believe they are character flaws, but the truth is, they are illnesses. Why do they exist? Because we live in a fallen world, and the prince of this world delights in such things. Let’s not forget that he prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour!

How sad it would be if the narrative stopped with “In this world you will have trouble!” But Jesus gives us hope when he adds, “But take heart! I have overcome the world!”

Greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. 1 John 4:4b KJV

If the Spirit of God lives in you, you have the strength to overcome the world! Does that mean, illnesses, like depression and alcoholism do not effect believers? No! But it does mean that we have the strength to keep pushing forward, to get out of bed in the morning and face the day with the One who overcomes the world right by our side! These things can never separate us from the love of God!

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 2 Corinthians 4:7-9 NIV

If you are struggling through a difficult season, don’t give up! Take heart! Jesus has overcome the world. He sees what you are going through and He will give you the strength to endure. Put all your trust in Him because He cares for you!

And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.1 Peter 5:10 NIV

There is hope!

Do not gloat over me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will rise. Though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light. Micah 7:8 NIV

There is hope!

Though he falls, he will not be overwhelmed, for the LORD is holding his hand. Psalm 37:24 BSB

There is hope!

For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again. Proverbs 24:16b NIV

There is hope!

From my earliest youth my enemies have persecuted me, but they have never defeated me. Psalm 129:2 NLT

There is hope!

Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him from them all. Psalm 34:19 BSB

There is hope!