Jesus spoke these words to His disciples right before His horrific death by crucifixion. The disciples were experiencing trouble and didn’t know the whole story yet. To them it seemed that their Savior had been defeated by the world. When John writes “world,” he means the world that is ruled by Satan and opposed to God. Truly, terrible trouble.

That very night, the disciples’ temptation to give up was so great that they all would desert Jesus. Three times Peter would deny even knowing Him. Have you ever had the kind of trouble that made you want to quit?

Jesus tells you how to overcome: by believing that He has overcome for you. You see, the very death that looked like defeat was actually Jesus’ triumph over the world and over Satan. On our behalf, Jesus did what we cannot do. He perfectly trusted His Father, obediently died on the cross, and in doing so, took the punishment you deserved. Every betrayal and denial you and I have committed is forgiven because of Jesus’ sacrifice that overcomes the world.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Katherine L. Roberts

Katie Roberts, whose parents are Charles and Janet Morris, has been married to Richard for 21 years. They have one daughter who is married, and another son and daughter at home. Currently she writes, homeschools, teaches Bible study at their church in Eugene, and volunteers as an advocate for abused and neglected children. Katie enjoys a strong cup of tea and a good murder mystery book. She and her husband love exploring the Pacific Northwest outdoors and spending time with family and friends. Most importantly, Katie lives for the return of Jesus!