There will be times when life is difficult. There will be those against us who don’t want to hear the Truth or can’t handle the Truth. They will whisper fear in our ear to frighten or scare. Know that during these times that God will be there. God is like a mountain standing rock solid over time and protecting us in our time of need. We can take courage, for God is there for us.

Reading in John 18:1-27, Jesus had courage to fulfill His mission. We note in today’s passage that Judas and the soldiers came looking for Jesus in the garden. Jesus went out to ask them who they were looking for. When they said they were looking for Jesus of Nazareth, Jesus said, “I am he”. This indicates a voluntary surrender by Jesus.

Jesus was not afraid at all and taught by example. He knew what the future held yet He was on a mission and had the courage to follow through. He faced His enemies in order to fulfill His purpose; to suffer in this world in order to set us free.

The high priest questioned Jesus about his disciples and his teaching. Jesus said that he spoke openly and said nothing in secret. When Jesus simply recommended that the high priest ask those who had heard him speak, a nearby official slapped him on the face (v. 22).  Jesus said that he spoke the Truth and asked the man why he struck him.

Jesus distinguished right and wrong by following the truth. Unfortunately, during the time of Jesus, many couldn’t handle the Truth and it’s the same today. Many can’t handle the Truth so in order to compensate, in their mind what’s right is a lie and what’s wrong is right.

We can follow God’s word for the Truth to distinguish right from wrong because Jesus paid our debt. We can handle the Truth by admitting wrongdoing, making the necessary changes, and asking for help. By accepting Jesus, we receive that help as the Spirt guides and God provides.

Jesus … You are the Truth that sets us free. You knew what Your future held, but fulfilled Your mission with courage to follow through. Because of You Lord Jesus, we receive grace and the Holy Spirt to face our future that may be difficult at times. The enemy will whisper fear in our ear, but our faith knows these whispers are a lie. Help us obey Your teachings as we step ahead following Your Way. Amen.