Take heart; I have overcome the world.

Jesus answered them, "Do you now believe? Behold, the hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. 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."

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These words move me deeply. In the times when I feel abandoned I take comfort that Jesus too was abandoned by his friends.  When I feel so alone in tribulation I am comforted knowing that God is with me. When my heart seems to fail I am encouraged in knowing that my Lord Jesus overcame temptation and prevailed against the dark forces of this age.

The message of the gospel is one of a conquering Messiah who faced down self-righteous religious leaders, demonic temptation, painful torture and undeserved death. It is the story of one who, against all odds, overcame these things and showed the world a better way. Jesus is the shining example of overcoming for those who suffer and are in pain.

I am in need today Lord. I need your comfort and your strength to overcome.