John 16 - The Life Recovery Bible

16:20-22 Jesus’ followers certainly grieved the imminent loss of their friend and master. Losing a loved one is a painful and universal experience. We may grieve the loss of our childhood, our innocence, our spouse, or our only means of livelihood. We even grieve the loss of our addiction that we have used to numb our pain. Abuse, abandonment, or neglect by someone we trust is painful. But there is no pain so great that Jesus cannot heal it. When we find the courage to honestly face and grieve over our losses and injuries, we can discover what lies beyond grief—freedom and joy!

16:33 In this world, especially in recovery, we encounter “many trials and sorrows,” many of them beyond our control. These can be endured with God’s help. On the other hand, some of our suffering is self-inflicted and can be avoided. In such situations, God still offers us peace as we muster the courage to make needed changes in our life. God’s forgiveness and loving acceptance can give us peace as we face all of our our trials and sorrows. God’s power can lead us through recovery; he has already overcome all the obstacles that stand in our way!