“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33 NIV
Peace In Him
According to the newcanadianlife.com website, “Canada’s lead role as a peaceful nation is due to the consistent devaluation of internal conflict and violence, resulting in the promotion of unity, interpersonal harmony amongst its citizens, and sustainable development. This attitude is what made it the ideal destination for people worldwide. Canada is famous for its attitude towards peaceful coexistence among its citizens despite their diversity. This is also extended to other nations of the world.
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As the Church is growing, rapidly, around the globe these days, more and more Christians are being persecuted for their faith. In 2024, 4,476 Christians were murdered around the globe because of their beliefs. Another 4,744 were imprisoned. Over 7,670 churches and Christian properties were attacked, too. These all confirm what Jesus said to us in John 16:33: “’I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.’” Everyone who takes seriously our relationship with Jesus Christ and who speaks of Him to others, urging them to follow Him too, will face at best opposition and at worst persecution. Jesus knew this was the case and so promises His presence and through His presence, His peace. We see that lived out in the experience of Stephen, the first martyr. In the midst of the thrown stones, the deacon saw the glorified Jesus, and in that vision, there was peace. No matter what you are experiencing, Jesus is with you – you can count on Him and His peace.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley