“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 ESV
The Greek word for “take heart” is used only 7 times in the NT and in each situation it is a personal encouragement from Jesus to people overwhelmed with apprehension or affliction.
Depending on the circumstances and the way the verse is translated, when Jesus says to someone to “take heart” He means to “take courage,” “be of good comfort” or “be of good cheer” – or better yet, all the above.
We are living in a world in which this assurance from Jesus could not be more relevant. If there ever was a time when we needed to hear “take heart,” with ALL it’s nuanced meaning, it is now.
Tom, These are encouraging words, ‘to take heart’. To take heart is a great comfort that I will focus on more closely. You say if there was ever a time that we need this comfort, it is now. While it is true that we can take comfort in these words now, when wasn’t there a time in history that we didn’t need this comfort really? When I look at the challenges of the day I need only think of the times that my grandparents and my parents lived through. My grandmother gave me a message about ‘tomorrow’ saying that people have always felt its uncertainty and that tomorrow comes…in other words, take heart. A gift from my grandmother that I hold near. Thank you for today’s post.
Erica, Thank you for your thoughtful and insightful comment. Your grandmother was a wise woman whose timeless wisdom blesses me today.Thanks!
In a time when there seems to be much unrest and godlessness, the verse that my spirit proclaims is Psalm 27:13 “I remain confident that I will see the goodness of God in the land of the living”. So important to look for His goodness and light in the midst of darkness.
Amen! Such a great promise and one I have been claiming lately as well! Thanks for your comment Bonnie!