Even Peter, we will recall, denied Christ. Sometimes, despite our very best intentions we too will let Him down. Our faith may be at its weakest when tested, and yet we are encouraged to be of good cheer. Our confidence ought not to be in the flesh, rather it should be in the Lord Jesus Christ. He it was who overcame the world through His death on the cross of Calvary, and was vindicated through His glorious resurrection.
Jesus said "These things have I spoken unto you", and amongst these we learn of the "things" that are reasons for being of good cheer. We have an assurance of being friends with God, we have promises of fruitfulness, we have the promised presence of the 'Helper', the Holy Spirit, to indwell those who believe, teaching and revealing the things of Christ to us.
Our good cheer has to be well founded, and indeed it is, if it is based on the overcoming work of the Lord Jesus Christ. The means of our sins being forgiven, our being justified in the sight of God, of being clothed with Christ's righteousness, having a glorious hope, and having peace with God - all these blessings and more, can be traced back to Christ's finished work on the cross.
Jesus Christ said "be of good cheer" - the reasons dear friend are established. So amidst all the problems and perplexities of life, you are encouraged to remember that God will deal with those that vex your soul, He will deal with the world's blasphemies, the wicked will receive His justice - however, if you are a believer, knowing that you have been 'born again', having had your sins forgiven, you are are told to "look up", for "your redemption draweth nigh." As Christ has overcome, so will you, through Him! |
