Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1–2 (NIV)
It’s been a particularly difficult week. I have some tough decisions looming, and even though I’ve prayed and sought direction, I haven’t found any peace yet. On top of that, I’m experiencing stress at home that can be described in one word: teenagers. And, of course, there is always a mountain of laundry to do and a pile of papers to grade. I know everyone has weeks like this, but the question is, How do we keep difficulties from stealing our joy?
There’s a verse in an old hymn that says, “Turn your eyes upon Jesus.” It’s akin to the verse above, which tells us to fix our eyes on Him. Study what He does and Jesus’s example: “For the joy set before him he endured the cross.” I think that means that He knew He could make it through anything, even death on a cross, because He kept His eyes on the prize. Jesus’s prize was to be seated at the right hand of God.
What’s our prize? Some might say it’s heaven, and I think that’s true. But before that—our prize here on earth is Jesus. Spending time with Him. Being in His presence. The joy set before us is Jesus. He’s where we find our joy in the midst of trouble; He’s the One we trust to see us through to the other side.
Faith Step: Think about where you look for joy. Is it acquiring things? Gaining the approval of people? Set your mind on Jesus today and find your joy in knowing that wherever you go, He goes with you.
