Following Jesus · Part 27 of 40 · 3 min
A Promise for Troubled Hearts
Jesus knew his friends would soon face sorrow and confusion. He spoke gently to them before leaving the upper room.
They listened in the quiet room.
He told them not to let their hearts be troubled. They could trust in God and trust in him.
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust in me.”
He spoke of his Father's house and promised to prepare a place for them. He would come again and bring them to be with him.
Thomas wondered how they could know the way. Jesus explained that he himself was the way to the Father.
His friends would not be left without help. Jesus promised the Holy Spirit, who would teach them and help them remember his words.
He gave them his peace. It was different from the peace the world could offer, because it rested in God's faithful care.
The disciples prepared to leave the room.
Being sad did not mean they had lost his love. Even when they could not see him, he would still care for them.
We can bring worried thoughts to God in prayer. We can also comfort a friend by listening, staying close, and reminding them that they are loved.
Jesus' promise gives hope to troubled hearts.
Retelling of John 14:1–27.
Supporting reading: The Desire of Ages, chapter 73. Open the book
Talk about it together
- Hope
- Compassion
A verse to remember
“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.”
John 14:1 · excerptNKJV
- Whom did Jesus promise to send to help and teach his friends?
- How do you think his promises helped the worried disciples?
- What kind words could you say to someone who feels sad?
Activity · 2–5 minutes
A Sentence of Comfort
A grown-up imagines feeling worried about a task. Listen and practice a sentence such as “I can stay with you.” Then switch turns. You may finish with a short prayer, remembering that feeling sad does not mean being unloved.
Try it today: We can listen and stay with someone who is worried without demanding a smile.
More stories with these values
Recognize emotions
Open the interactive activity or prepare a printable sheet for home, classroom, or family.
Open activity →