³³ These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (NKJV)

³³ I have told you this, so that you might have peace in your hearts because of me. While you are in the world, you will have to suffer. But cheer up! I have defeated the world.  John 16:33 (CEV)

What the heck is going on? Our country seems determined to destroy itself from the inside, terrorists are attacking police and running down innocent by-standers world-wide, while nations threaten each other with nuclear attack.

How is it possible to be of good cheer or have peace in our hearts?

No matter which Bible version you prefer, those words from the Gospel of John (above) seem much easier said than done. In the midst of such suffering and evil as we see today, how are we to “cheer up” and have peace?

I’ve been praying over this verse and have come to the conclusion that the answer is in the last five words, “I have defeated/overcome the world.” Peace of heart and mind can only be found by placing complete trust in the speaker of those words, Jesus Christ.

Christian brothers and sisters, our mission in the spiritual warfare raging around us is to be of good cheer, placing our complete trust in our Savior, so that we may demonstrate to those around us the peace available to all in the midst of tribulation.

When confusion and panic abound, remember another familiar quote from Our Savior and “Fear not.”