For the Joy . . . press on . . .
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. – Hebrews 12:2-3
Jesus was and continues to be our example. He endured the cross because of the joy set before him. He could see what was coming after the cross. Therefore the pain of the cross was viewed as temporary. And we are to consider Him as our example. so that we too can look past the pain and see the gain of what He purchased for us.
Notice that He does not want us to frow weary and lose heart. Weary from enduring, weary from believing, weary from contiually facing challenges and obsticales. God does not want us to lose heart. If I lose heart I loose the basis for which His faith can energise my Christian walk.
So today, what is it that I need to endure? As I do so should consider Jesus, the author and finishing, or completer of my faith. I need to look past the present hardship and press on beyond and see the victory purchased for me/us already . . .there with joy I press on . . .
Lord, thank you that you never leave me, but rather lead me into your perfect will and grace. I look unto you as the one that completes and finishes my faith. With joy I today endure all things and for the joy se before me I set my face to continue to to do Your will, purposing to finish the race . . .
Remember My Chains
I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you. – Col 4:18
Paul’s letter to Colosse contains many wonder and glorious truths, as well as numerous admonistion, warnings and overal general guidance as a believer in Christ. Each verse and chapter can be taken apart and prayed about, written on, preach and taught to edify the body of Christ corporately and individulaly. For example, just the passage, “being filled with the knowledge of His will . . . “. This is wonderful! I pray for myself, family and loved ones as well that they are filled . . . with God’s will; that is to know and understand His call, purpose and destiny in each believer.
Remember my chain. . . all that Paul wrote was done so while wearing a chain. Yes, he deinatley identified with Christ’s suffering. While understanding and lving in the realm of great revelation, he did show in the natural in chains. Thus was the price paid by Paul so that others too would know and experience God’s goodness and forgiving grace.
Lord, today, let me realize and know that while we have been called to spend eternity with You, there are times on this earth that we will have a chain to wear at times. Let me keep my eyes, heart, motives and desire toward you. Today I set my heart on “things above”. For I died, and my now my life is hidden with Christ above. Jesus I pray today that I live more with you in the present now, then those things around me. Holy Spirit I pray for today’s leading, anointing, worship, strength and purpose to be lieved in me for Your glory – Amen.