Enduring Because of Joy
Hebrews 12:1-3 (NLT)
1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. 3 Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people;[c] then you won’t become weary and give up.
Jesus endured the cross and disregarded its shame "because of the joy awaiting Him." This is the secret to persevering through your own difficult season. What joy awaits you on the other side of your current trial? Perhaps it's spiritual maturity, restored relationships, or simply knowing you didn't let the enemy win. When suffering comes—and it will—you have a choice: Will you be a victor or a victim? Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of your faith. He walked this road first and knows every painful step you're taking. Don't give up before you discover the purpose in your pain. The refining fire is hot, but pure gold awaits those who endure.
1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. 3 Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people;[c] then you won’t become weary and give up.
Jesus endured the cross and disregarded its shame "because of the joy awaiting Him." This is the secret to persevering through your own difficult season. What joy awaits you on the other side of your current trial? Perhaps it's spiritual maturity, restored relationships, or simply knowing you didn't let the enemy win. When suffering comes—and it will—you have a choice: Will you be a victor or a victim? Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of your faith. He walked this road first and knows every painful step you're taking. Don't give up before you discover the purpose in your pain. The refining fire is hot, but pure gold awaits those who endure.
Posted in Daily Devotions
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