Jesus Endured for Joy
Day 3, Week 2 | FOCUS
Hebrews 12:1-3 (ESV)
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.
Romans 8:18 (ESV)
For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.
James 1:2-4 (ESV)
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
Hebrews 12:2 tells us that Jesus “endured the cross, despising the shame, for the joy that was set before Him.” This isn’t a small or temporary joy. It’s the deep, eternal joy that’s rooted in God’s purpose of making a way for us to be reconciled with Him. Jesus didn’t ignore the suffering of the cross or pretend it was easy. Instead, He faced it head-on, seeing past the pain to the joy that lay beyond it. This joy didn’t erase the agony of the cross, but it gave Him the strength to endure it.
Romans 8:18 echoes this truth: “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” Paul, like Jesus, understood that enduring present suffering with a focus on eternal joy changes everything. When we fix our eyes on the promise of glory that God has prepared, we’re given perspective in our trials. Life’s struggles aren’t minimized, but they’re reframed in light of eternity. In James 1:2-4, we’re encouraged to “count it all joy” when we face trials because of the work God is doing through them. Endurance is produced through these trials, and joy is possible because we know the end goal.
For us, this means that the pain, setbacks, and losses we experience in life are not the end of our story. Each struggle, big or small, is part of the race, shaping us and preparing us for something beyond our current reality. Fixing our eyes on Jesus means looking beyond our present suffering, seeing it through the lens of eternal joy and glory. It’s a joy that isn’t rooted in temporary happiness but in a deep, unshakable hope that God’s promises are true and that our hardships are not for nothing.
Today, think about the struggles you’re facing. It could be a relationship that’s falling apart, a health issue, or a burden that feels too heavy to bear. Remember that Jesus endured unimaginable pain for the joy set before Him, and that same eternal joy is set before you. Your current pain, while real and difficult, does not compare to the glory that awaits.
As you go through today, ask God to give you eyes to see beyond your immediate circumstances. Fix your gaze on the joy and glory He promises. Let the certainty of His promises fuel your endurance, just as it did for Jesus. With Him, you can find strength, not by ignoring the pain, but by focusing on the joy that lies beyond it.
Reflect: What temporary struggles are causing you to lose sight of your eternal joy?
Pray: Father, help me to see beyond today’s struggles and experience the joy You promise.
Act: Take time to meditate on Romans 8:18. Write down one challenge you face and pray for God’s perspective on it.
