Why is it important to remember Jesus' words during trials and challenges? Setting the Scene at the Empty Tomb “‘He is not here; He has risen! Remember how He told you while He was still in Galilee: “The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified, and on the third day rise again.”’ And they remembered His words.” (Luke 24:6-8) Why “They Remembered” Matters for Us • Remembering turns confusion into clarity—the women moved from shock to certainty once Jesus’ words came back to them. • His promises are the lens that interprets our circumstances; without them, trials look final and hopeless. • Recalling Scripture joins us to the faithfulness of God, not the fickleness of our feelings. • The resurrection itself proves every word Jesus spoke will stand (John 2:19; 1 Corinthians 15:20). What Happens When We Forget • Hearts become “slow to believe” (Luke 24:25). • Fear overtakes faith (Matthew 14:30). • We look for the living among the dead—seeking solutions in powerless places (Luke 24:5). • Joy drains away (John 16:22) and peace evaporates (Isaiah 26:3). Key Promises That Sustain Us • John 16:33 – “In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world.” • Hebrews 13:5 – “Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you.” • Matthew 11:28-30 – “Come to Me… and you will find rest for your souls.” • Romans 8:28 – “All things work together for good to those who love God.” • Philippians 4:6-7 – “The peace of God… will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” • Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Putting Jesus’ Words Into Our Trials 1. Rehearse His promises aloud when anxiety rises. 2. Match every discouraging thought with a specific verse (2 Corinthians 10:5). 3. Share testimonies of past deliverance; memory strengthens momentum (Psalm 77:11-12). 4. Sing Scripture-saturated hymns; melody helps truth stick (Colossians 3:16). 5. Journal the exact words of Jesus that apply to today’s struggle. Practical Ways to Keep His Words Fresh • Keep a “resurrection list”—verses that declare God’s power to bring life from dead places. • Memorize one promise each week; review it during routine moments (commutes, chores). • Place Scripture cards where trials hit hardest—desk, mirror, nightstand. • Pair Bible reading with immediate obedience; lived truth lodges deeper than studied truth (James 1:22-25). • Surround yourself with believers who speak Scripture naturally; community reinforces remembrance (Hebrews 10:24-25). A Final Word of Encouragement Every trial comes with a built-in reminder opportunity. When we meet hardship with the living words of Jesus, tombs turn into testimonies, panic turns into praise, and the same power that raised Christ fuels steadfast hope in us. |
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