Thur Devotional

Daily Devotional 

from Touching Lives with Dr. James Merritt:

"I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But be of good cheer. I have overcome the world." John 16:33


In our present culture, mental illness is reaching epic proportions. One in five Americans suffer from a mental health condition—about 40 million people. Over half of those have no access to care and there is a severe shortage of mental health professionals. Mental health conditions include problems such as depression, suicidal tendencies, substance abuse, anxiety, bipolar disorders, eating disorders, and manic episodes.

The Bible talks of a world full of tribulation. That is, the world is in a constant state of pain and disorder. What hope do we have in such a place? Certainly we should seek help for the mental issues of our day from qualified professionals. But in treating the mind, we should not forget about the soul. God addresses our present tribulation as a spiritual issue.

God reminds us in John 16:33 to be of good cheer…because He has never encountered a problem, issue, or illness that was too big for Him. In a world where fear, anxiety, and disorder reign, God has overcome. In Christ, we have peace. And this peace is spiritual peace, knowing that in Christ, a heaven without fear and anxiety awaits us.

In your present hurting, don’t forget that God has overcome, and we can have spiritual peace in Him.

God, when I am anxious and fearful about all that is happening around me, or my mind races because of disorders within me, help me to trust You as my Overcomer. Remind me of my spiritual health that comes from a relationship with Jesus. Give me confidence as I cast my cares on You. Help me to overcome tribulation in life through Your power and Your Holy Spirit living in me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.