[A ‘Tuesday Challenge‘ originally prepared for the congregation of Horley Baptist Church during October 2025]
In this world you will have trouble. [1]
These words come from the final discourse that Jesus had with his disciples shortly before his betrayal and arrest in the garden of Gethsemane, as recorded in John’s gospel.
For many of us there are times when we feel that the word ‘trouble’ is perhaps an understatement of our circumstances. Our health, our relationships, our work, our finances; these are just some of the potential sources of trouble for us. In the disciples’ day their primary challenge was religious persecution. We are, currently, spared the intensity of oppression that they endured but that may be of little comfort when we focus on our immediate, secular problems.
Are we tempted to resort to panic mode? It is said that a burden shared is a burden halved. Who better to share it with than Jesus?
Lord, I need your help. I can see a situation developing in which I will be forced into a corner; I am beginning to feel desperate. I believe that you know what I do not know, and that you know the end from the beginning. Help me to have confidence in you and grant me your peace.
In response we are reminded that Jesus prayed for us. After praying for the disciples he expanded the scope of his prayer:
My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message
John 17 v20 [NIVUK]
The hymn writer Joseph Scriven was well acquainted with troubles and disappointments. On two occasions his bride-to-be died shortly before he was to be married and for much of his life he suffered from depression and misunderstandings. Yet he was able to write some words with have been a blessing to several generations of believers:
Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged;
take it to the Lord in prayer!
Joseph Scriven (1855)
Many, many people from the disciples onward have travelled along stony roads and through stormy times, and have found the Jesus is a worthy companion. Two early believers summed it up like this:
Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?
Luke 24 v32 [NIVUK]
All is not gloom and despondency, our opening words are just part of one verse. It continues:
But take heart! I have overcome the world”
The Overcomer is willing to share our burden – are we willing to let him?
References:
[1] John 16:33 [NIVUK]
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Last week’s reflection: Taxing Times
Contributed by Steve Humphreys; © Steve Humphreys