Relationships: Passing the Vibe CheckSample

Day 1: Relationship with Jesus

John 16:33 New International Version (NIV)

33 “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.”

Jesus wants us to be peaceful in our relationships with others, in our hearts, and in our connection to Him. Even though this is His desire for us, He knows that living a Christ-filled life will not be easy. Before He is crucified, He talks to the disciples about His future on the earth and the hardships each will face because of following Him. Jesus promises them trouble, grief, loss, and persecution.

Do you realize that giving your life to Christ is not like a “get out of jail free” card from a board game? The Holy Spirit isn’t a genie for you to conjure up so that all your wishes and relationship desires will come true. As a young, vocal, and devoted Christian, you will have a bullseye on your back. The spiritual warfare around us will include you as a target when you live for Christ. If you become a light introducing others to the truth of His identity, the enemy will want to stop you.

Jesus is very upfront about this fact. He is the truth and cannot lie. We will have trouble.

But take heart!

The amazing promise from the Savior places us securely in a state of peace. Again, speaking only truth, He reminds us that He has overcome the enemy, evil, and the world. We know that no matter what happens, our God is in control.

As you walk along the path of life, growing older and wiser, I want to encourage you because as a child of the Highest King, you will have problems. You know how it feels to struggle with relationships between friends or significant others, and solidifying your core beliefs and identity has pressed you to the wall at times. You know how hard it is to watch your parents as they watch you growing up. Guys, these painful experiences are stirred up by the enemy.

But that enemy cannot win. When you accept Jesus as your Savior and as your connection to God, you are filled with the Holy Spirit. God’s same power that brought Jesus out of the grave fills your soul. You have access to the same strength that defeated death and the enemy. The very same strength.