Take Heart

John 16:33  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."

I have been thinking alot about the Joy of The Lord the last day and 1/2 or so.  In His presence is fullness of joy.  The joy of the Lord is my strength.  These are scriptures that have been ringing through my head.

This morning I came across the above scripture (John 16:33), and it seemed to scream out the reason for the joy.  The joy or peace in this world is in Jesus.  Life will give many dissappointments, many struggles, many temptations for worldly possesions and pleasures.  However a fulfilled & joyful life is a life that has peace in Jesus regardless of physical things that occur.
       Take heart, be of good cheer, no matter the thoughts, no matter the obstacles, no matter the sickness or pain.  No matter what comes Jesus has absolutely overcome the world.  The world or worldly system or temptation is not the master, Jesus is the master. 
      Have peace in sorrow, peace in trails because the situation doesn't control you, but Jesus in you controls the situation.  No wonder Paul said in

Colossians 3:2

Let heaven fill your thoughts. Do not think only about things down here on earth.

The joy is found in the things of heaven; misery, dissappointment, discontentment, jealousy, is found in the things and situations of this earth.

                 Be of good cheer, Jesus has overcome the world.