Daily Devotional for Saturday, September 26

Suffering Is a Part of Following Jesus

“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world,” John 16:33.
Jesus spoke these words just before His arrest and crucifixion. He was preparing His disciples for the reality that following Him would not be easy. The road of faith would lead them through rejection, persecution and sorrow, but it would also lead to victory. He did not promise them comfort in this world; He promised His overcoming presence in every storm.
For the believer, suffering is not a sign of failure—it is a mark of fellowship with Christ. When we walk in His footsteps, we will share both His rejection and His resurrection power. The same world that opposed Him will not understand those who belong to Him. Yet, Jesus offers a peace that the world cannot take away. It is the calm assurance that no matter what we face, He remains in control.
Our Savior’s words, “Be of good cheer,” are not a call to pretend everything is fine, but a reminder that our joy rests in His victory. The cross that brought Him suffering became the instrument of our salvation. So, too, our trials, when surrendered to Him, become tools for His glory and our growth.

Daily Challenge
When you face hardship for your faith, do not lose heart. Remember that Jesus never asked you to walk a path He had not already walked Himself. Take courage in His words, and let His overcoming peace steady your spirit. Today, rest in this truth: the One who conquered the world walks beside you still.

Steven Ridings