How should John 16:5 influence our response to uncertainty in life? Setting the Scene Jesus is finishing His final teaching session before the cross. The disciples sense something big is coming but don’t fully grasp it. They feel unsettled, yet Jesus speaks plainly: “But now I am going to the One who sent Me; yet none of you asks Me, ‘Where are You going?’” (John 16:5) What the Verse Says • “I am going” – Jesus’ departure is definite, purposeful, and timed by the Father. • “to the One who sent Me” – His destination is the Father’s presence, the safest, most sovereign place in the universe. • “none of you asks Me, ‘Where are You going?’” – Grief has crowded out the better question. They worry about what they will lose instead of what He will gain—and share. Lessons for Facing Uncertainty • God’s plan is never stalled. If Jesus could trust the Father while walking toward the cross, we can entrust tomorrow’s unknowns to Him. (Proverbs 3:5-6) • The right question changes everything. Rather than “What might I lose?” ask, “Where is Jesus in this?” He is always moving for our good. (Romans 8:28) • Our feelings aren’t final. The disciples’ sorrow didn’t rewrite God’s timetable; our anxiety doesn’t rewrite His promises. (Philippians 4:6-7) • Christ’s ascension secures our future. Because He went to the Father, the Spirit came to guide, comfort, and empower us in every uncertainty. (John 16:7; Acts 1:9-11) Practical Steps 1. Redirect the conversation in prayer: “Father, show me where Jesus is at work right now.” 2. Read the larger passage (John 16:1-15) aloud, noting Jesus’ repeated assurances. 3. List current unknowns, then write beside each one a truth about where Jesus is now—“at the right hand of God interceding for us” (Romans 8:34). 4. Replace “What-if” thinking with “Since-He” thinking: • What-if: “What if this falls apart?” • Since-He: “Since He rules from the Father’s throne, He already sees the end.” Encouraging Promises to Remember • “Do not let your hearts be troubled… I am going to prepare a place for you.” (John 14:1-3) • “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5) • “The peace of God… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7) A Closing Thought Jesus’ calm announcement in John 16:5 anchors us when life feels unsteady. He still moves purposefully, sits victoriously with the Father, and sends His Spirit faithfully to us. When uncertainty rises, look up and ask the better question—“Where is Jesus in this?”—and let His sure answer settle your heart. |
    |