Weekly Devotional: Do Not Let Your Hearts Be Troubled

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.” — John 14:1, NIV

Have you ever been troubled by what’s happening around you? Perhaps your heart hurts for what you see going on in the world or maybe you are dealing with internal struggles that are weighing on your heart.

Regardless of the situation, it can almost become habitual to let ourselves become discouraged or even fearful about the things we cannot control. It may feel like we are constantly juggling different responsibilities or worries that keep us from having satisfying peace or contentment.

As Christians, it’s not God’s design for us to be filled with constant fearfulness or worry. Rather, He want us to be filled with His peace. In John 14:27, Jesus tells his disciples “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

Peace Beyond Understanding

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:7, NIV

In the midst of chaos and confusion, we can seek peace. The world tries to tell us where we can find peace. It tells us that if we just do A and B, we can find peace and a state of happiness. Although these things may offer a sense of temporary relief, there is one source of true peace that lasts and “surpasses all understanding.”

As David writes in Psalm 4:8, “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Jesus Christ isn’t a source of momentary peace; he is the source of eternal peace. His peace can change our hearts and perspectives.

Seeking Help for the Troubled Heart

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” — Matthew 7:7, NIV

When we have a troubled heart, we should pursue peace. The Bible says we can seek God when we are struggling, and He will answer us. We may not get the exact answer we are looking for. Our fears and worries may not disappear instantly.

Instead, going to God in prayer and through His word can help us know how to take the next step to pursue peace. Perhaps, He leads us to seek counsel from others or a professional. Maybe, He shows us different areas in our life where we can choose peace or how to change our habits in order to change our hearts.

Even when our hearts are troubled, we are still deeply and fully loved by God. He sees and understands us. Our fears and worries are not too much for Him. Nothing can separate us from the love of Jesus Christ (Romans 8:38-39).

We will never be perfect. Our hearts will never be completely free from sin, fear and struggle while we are still living here on Earth. However, our eternity is secured. We have already won, not because of ourselves but because of Jesus Christ, the one who can take any troubled heart and make it new.

Grand Canyon University is devoted to helping you grow in your faith while earning your degree. Opportunities such as chapel and life groups are offered to enhance your college campus experience. Explore GCU’s theology and ministry programs offered by the College of Theology.

Approved by the Global Outreach Coordinator of The Department of Spiritual Life on Sept. 16, 2022.