“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, ESV). Jesus had just given a long talk to his disciples and encouraged them that they will have joy and be able to ask anything from the Father in Jesus’ name. But these words in verse 33 are not just for the disciples; they are for all his followers. When we abide in him we have inner peace even though outside, in the world, we have tribulation. This is a great description of life during the overlap of the former age and the kingdom of God. Since Jesus brought the kingdom when he came his followers get to experience the kingdom inside themselves. Thus, in the midst of a turbulent world we have something that no other group can have: deep inner peace established by God.
