Hebrews 12:2
Open in Bible Reader"Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God."
What was the joy set before Christ that enabled Him to endure the unspeakable agony of the cross? It was the joy of redeeming His people. It was the joy of bringing many sons and daughters to glory. It was the joy of pleasing His Father by accomplishing the great work of salvation. Dear believer, you were part of that joy. Christ looked through the darkness of Calvary and saw you — redeemed, forgiven, and safely home — and that vision sustained Him through the worst suffering the universe has ever known.
If Christ endured the cross for the joy of saving you, can you not endure your present trials for the joy of knowing Him? The afflictions of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that shall be revealed. Fix your eyes upon Jesus — not upon your circumstances, not upon your failures, not upon the opinions of others — but upon Him.
He is both the Author and the Finisher of your faith. He who began the good work will carry it through to completion. This morning, look to Jesus and find strength, courage, and joy for whatever lies ahead.
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