Oct 21 – Why Are You Troubled?

“Why are you troubled? And why do doubts arise in your hearts?” (Luke 24:38)

John 14 is one of the most comforting chapters in the Bible for troubled hearts. It is natural for our hearts to become troubled. Problems, struggles, and storms are also a part of life. But during such times, we should not remain troubled and discouraged. We must cast away the spirit of anxiety and put on a spirit of courage and confidence.

If the Lord is your Shepherd, you have no reason to be troubled. He will never lead His sheep to troubled and turbulent waters. He leads them beside still waters and gives them rest.

In this world where the waves continually beat against us, the soul that holds firmly to Christ will remain steadfast. It will be like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved.

Therefore, whenever trouble comes, look to the Lord. Declare His Word in faith. The one who casts his burden upon the Lord will not be shaken (Psalm 55:22).

David speaks from his own experience: “We will not fear, even though the earth gives way.” (Psalm 46:2)

How could David remain without fear or anxiety even when everything around him seemed to be collapsing? The answer is found in the very first verse of the psalm: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1) Yes, if you firmly hold on to this truth, there is no need for you to be troubled or afraid.

There was a time when the former Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi, lost her son Sanjay Gandhi in an air accident. During that period of grief, she repeatedly read the Sermon on the Mount and John 14. She once said that these passages brought her comfort in her time of sorrow.

Jesus had spent three and a half years with His disciples. As He approached the cross, He knew that He would soon leave them, and He wanted to prepare and comfort them. Jesus assured them that they need not remain troubled because of His departure. He told them: A little while, and you will not see Me; and again a little while, and you will see Me, because I go to the Father” (John 16:16).

On the one hand, Jesus knew the sorrow and anguish that would soon overwhelm His disciples. On the other hand, He Himself knew the shame, suffering, and agonising death He would experience the very next day.

Yet, even while facing His own deep anguish, Jesus lovingly comforted His troubled disciples. What incomparable love and comfort!

Verse for further meditation: “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You; because he trusts in You.” (Isaiah 26:3)