Christ as God: A Study in JohnSampl

What does it say?

Jesus told his disciples that He was leaving but was sending them the Holy Spirit. Their sorrow would turn to joy and peace because Jesus has overcome the world.

What does it mean?

Jesus continued to prepare the disciples for His departure. Even though He wouldn’t physically be with them in the difficult days ahead, Jesus was sending a Helper who would be with them always. The grief, confusion, and panic they would feel at His crucifixion would be transformed into a cause for joy at His resurrection. Though they wouldn’t fully understand it at the time, His sacrifice on the cross completely defeated sin and death, overcoming anything the world could throw at them. Through the presence of the Holy Spirit, they would experience peace in a troubled and hostile world.

How should I respond?

When was the last time you said, “I’m fine under the circumstances?” Well, what in the world are you doing under there when you can live as an overcomer? The Lord is able to transform your sorrows into joy as you experience His presence and peace through the Holy Spirit. Have you asked God to remove some kind of sorrow? It seldom works that way. Just as labor pains become a reason for joy because they bring a baby into a family, trouble and heartache give birth to stronger faith and character in the life of an overcomer. Be aware of the presence of Jesus in the midst of today’s trouble.