Love Under Fire

Despair to Assurance

In a more complete sense than ever before the disciples had “found Him of whom Moses in the law, and also the prophets, wrote.” Assurance and unclouded faith replaced their uncertainty and despair. They had passed through the deepest trial possible for them to experience and had seen how God's Word had been fulfilled triumphantly. After this, what could shake their faith? In the deepest sorrow they had “strong consolation,” a hope that was like “an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast” (Hebrews 6:18, 19). LF 147.2

The Lord says, “My people shall never be put to shame.” “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” (Joel 2:26; Psalm 30:5.) On His resurrection day these disciples met the Savior, and their hearts burned within them as they listened to His words. Before His ascension, Jesus instructed them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel,” adding, “Lo, I am with you always” (Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:20). On the Day of Pentecost the promised Comforter came down, and the hearts of the believers thrilled with the vivid presence of their ascended Lord. LF 147.3