Jesus Has Overcome the World, January 18
Daily Reflections from Inside the Cancer Journey
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Written by Thomas Sherrod
“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 16:33 NIV).
I was the youngest of three boys. It was wonderful having older brothers I could call upon for protection or advice. It was also a blessing to have a mother I could run to when the older brothers felt like taking out their frustrations on their youngest brother. Who can we turn to for security and protection in a world filled with tribulation? Our parents, siblings or friends will not always be present. The world is filled with temptations and pitfalls. The writer of John reminds us that Jesus has overcome the world to bring us peace. Jesus is our constant Friend whose presence brings peace in an anxious world.
Cancer is certainly a tribulation. It presents physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges. Who is the best physician? Where is the best hospital? Should I decide on an aggressive or a less invasive approach to treatment? Can I trust my doctor? There are so many unexpected decisions and conflicting emotions. Where do I turn for comfort, guidance, and strength? It seems like everyone has an opinion about what is best for you. Good listeners are hard to find.
What an encouragement it is to realize that Jesus has already overcome whatever the world may throw at you! In today’s verse Jesus proclaims this truth: “I have overcome the world.” Jesus will never disappoint.
He only seeks your best interests.
He will provide for your needs as you listen for His voice and direction.
He is truth in a world of lies.
He is the way in a world of dead ends.
He is life in a world that lifts up dead idols.
Worldly distractions such as social media, drugs, and other addictions can lure you away from His presence. However, Jesus provides a fortress against the onslaughts of the enemy. He is a rock you can stand on. He is a mighty tower you can run to. You can stop striving to defeat the darkness with your own abilities. Surrendering to God is the only way I have found to overcome my prideful heart. Ask God for the humbleness to call upon His strength. In His strength there is victory over any obstacle we may face.
Pray: Lord Jesus, give me the humility of heart to call upon You. Thank You for the assurance that You have overcome anything that comes against me. Your Holy Spirit is my advocate, my helper, the spirit of truth and so much more. You conquer anything that threatens me. I am so grateful for Your faithful presence with me and within me. Amen.
Your Turn: Ask God to help you relinquish your challenges to Him. Celebrate that you have a Lord and Savior who has overcome the world!
Thomas Sherrod, Cancer Survivor
Tom is a retired hospital chaplain who works part time for Atrium Wake Forest Baptist Health System in North Carolina. He organized and facilitated a cancer support group for twenty years as part of his hospital ministry. He is married for forty-four years and enjoys his three daughters, two sons-in-law, and five grandchildren. He is a recent survivor of prostate cancer and is immensely thankful for all of God's grace and provisions through it all.
Cancer Companion’s vision for the future is for every person impacted by cancer to know the hope, love, and grace of Jesus and that every oncology team has included faith in their treatment toolbox. By 2033, Cancer Companions will provide 5 million engagements through cancer prayers, scriptures and interactions to those impacted by cancer. Engagements include; social media outreach, e-newsletters, prayer team requests, 30 days of Cancer Prayer event, and volunteer connections.
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