Lesson From a Cracked Fish Tank

"I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.]"

Some time ago, the center brace on my 75-gallon reef tank snapped. For some time, I had a steel bar on it as a brace so that it would not bow out causing a major catastrophe—

Well, I was getting tired of looking at the cracked brace and the bar that I had used to brace it. A bar that I periodically had to wipe the rust from carefully. It sometimes seemed painful to even look at it.

What does this have to do with John 16:33???

In this life, you will have troubles and tribulations that can leave you cracked, seemingly on the brink of a complete catastrophe and pains that seem to enjoy reminding you that all is not well.

But there is hope! Even though there is a large crack (wound(s)) that is not going anywhere. You and everyone can see it, and both you and those that see it may be wondering how you are going to make it.

God, like the new brace, has glued Himself to you. Giving you the support and strength that you need. You are the living testimony of complete trust in God and perfect worship that says, "I know God can, but even if He does not, I will worship Him!"

The hope that I am suggesting to you is in that same verse.

"but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.] "

So it is okay to cry, but don't give up! Always know that you are #Shape2Live!