John 16:16-24
From Sorrow to Joy
Daily S.O.A.P. Prompts
S – What verse stands out to me today?
O – What is God revealing about Jesus?
A – How should this change my life today?
P – What is my prayer in response?
Scripture
(John 16:16-24, NLT) 16 “In a little while you won’t see me anymore. But a little while after that, you will see me again.” 17 Some of the disciples asked each other, “What does he mean when he says, ‘In a little while you won’t see me, but then you will see me,’ and ‘I am going to the Father’? 18 And what does he mean by ‘a little while’? We don’t understand.” 19 Jesus realized they wanted to ask him about it, so he said, “Are you asking yourselves what I meant? I said in a little while you won’t see me, but a little while after that you will see me again. 20 I tell you the truth, you will weep and mourn over what is going to happen to me, but the world will rejoice. You will grieve, but your grief will suddenly turn to wonderful joy. 21 It will be like a woman suffering the pains of labor. When her child is born, her anguish gives way to joy because she has brought a new baby into the world. 22 So you have sorrow now, but I will see you again; then you will rejoice, and no one can rob you of that joy. 23 At that time you won’t need to ask me for anything. I tell you the truth, you will ask the Father directly, and he will grant your request because you use my name. 24 You haven’t done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy.
Observation
The disciples are confused about the meaning of what Jesus is saying to them. He invites them to ask questions.
Jesus is telling his disciples that he won’t see them and then he will see them. (More than likely, this refers to his coming death and resurrection).
Jesus uses the common phrase in John’s gospel, “I tell you the truth…” to explain what is going to happen.
Jesus gives the disciples two truths: (1) your mourning will turn to joy, and (2) you will be able to speak directly with the Father using his name.
The passage contrasts sorrow and joy. The illustration of childbirth is used to describe the contrast between pain and joy.
When we use the name of Jesus, all things are available to us. We will receive what we ask for and abundant joy.
Application
Abundant, wonderful joy is available to us even when life is hard.
We can speak directly to the Father because of Jesus.
Our requests are heard and answered when we use the name of Jesus.
Prayer
Father God, you bring joy where there is sorrow. In you is fullness of joy. As I experience difficulties today or tomorrow, I remember that joy is always available to me because you are with me. I request, in the name of Jesus, that my heart be full of joy today. Help me to be a dispensary of joy to all that I encounter. May people be drawn to you through my joy-filled witness. In JESUS NAME, amen!
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