Let Not Your Hearts Be Troubled

01 Let Not Your Hearts Be Troubled

The phrase "Let not your hearts be troubled" has been used for years in contexts fully removed from the biblical narrative. As a result, many do not know that this command was first given by Jesus, rather than a political commentator.

Not only does Jesus tell his closest followers to not be troubled at one of the most troubling times in history, he then tells them how to "not be troubled." 

Jesus said plainly "Believe in God. Believe also in me."

In this passage of Scripture, Jesus makes it clear that we, the children of God, have the capacity to not be troubled, or agitated, or worried, in a world gone mad. The key is truly believing in God and in Jesus, the Son.

Apparently, many believe in God mentally, but that belief does not impact daily life in such a way that trouble and worry and agitation with people, circumstances, jobs and family dissipate. The question then must be "Do we really believe?"

I'm not saying this is formulaic. I do, however, believe that Jesus was pointed in his instruction to the disciples and to us. Belief is the key.

If Jesus is an afterthought. Someone who is addressed like some form of "spiritual accessory" to life. . .then you don't really believe.

If Christ is not central to life. . .you do not believe.

If God is equated to church attendance and good deeds in the community. . .you don't believe.

If Jesus is nothing more than an elaborate "good luck charm" you go to when the finances tank, the relationship with your spouse is strained or bad things happen. . .you do not believe.

This world is troubling. It has been since. . .oh. . .the Garden of Eden. In the midst of this troubling world steps Jesus with a command to those who are called children of God, "let not your hearts be troubled." 

Think about this. Do you believe?