These three words spoken by Jesus have the power to transform lives, yet we rarely use them today. Instead we are telling people to take any number of things . . .

a chill pill
another shot
anti depressants
a drink
a smoke or a hit

It’s so easy for us to rely on taking things that change the physical chemistry in our bodies. But doing the hard work of soul and mind work requires the heart. Spiritual transformation is such an important part of our lives and Jesus has so much to tell us by word and example how to do this work – by taking heart! By taking God’s word into our hearts we feed our minds.

The three words ‘But take heart!’ lead us to following Jesus and the way he lived in this world that is full of trouble. While Jesus yearned, as we do for a more heavenly experience on earth, he told his disciples:

“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

“In this book, I am attempting to share with you the insights I have caught over the past several years in how Jesus’ teachings can help us learn to manage and overcome the stress in our own lives.When Jesus said we would have trouble in this world, he [immediately] encouraged us by telling us that he had overcome the world. I think what he meant was that in his heart, he overcame all the trouble he had witnessed and experienced. I believe he meant that we could also overcome trouble in our lives and not become unduly stressed by the trouble we witness and experience.” (Page 3, Praying Our Way Through Stress: Drawing Wisdom from the Lord’s Life and Prayer, (c) 2013 June G Paul, Westbow Press)

To me, Jesus is more than just a teacher or a wise man . . . to me Jesus is my Savior . . . His Words help save me from sin . . . His words forgive my past sin . . . His word gives me life and a purpose. His word touches my heart and I hope will touch yours as well.

Whatever trouble you might be experiencing, Jesus has experienced it and He can help you overcome it if you just choose to seek and follow Him. He is the way to everlasting peace.

Let us pray . . .

Lord God, thank you for the life of Jesus Christ. Please help us Take Heart and overcome the troubles we are experiencing in our lives today. Help us to receive the gift of peace that you have to give us. AMEN