Looking to Jesus

Keeping our focus on Jesus in times of testing and trials will sustain us. The weight of the cares of life can be too heavy for us to manage in our own strength. Sin will distract us from our true Source of life and peace, Jesus. So we trust Him that started this race with us to give us grace to finish well…

“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 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 has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2

Looking to Jesus is more than the occasional glance at our bible, or half-hearted prayer. It is seeking Him passionately and intentionally, with our whole heart. The deliverance we need is found as we pursue Him in this way…

“I sought the LORD, and He heard me, And delivered me from all my fears. They looked to Him and were radiant, And their faces were not ashamed.” Psalms 34:4-5

Fear will not be able to thrive when we fix our eyes on Jesus. We find true life and peace when we don’t allow circumstances to take our eyes away from our Healer and Provider.

We can choose to “set the Lord before us.” This means that no matter what comes our way, we choose to trust in God’s faithfulness to us. Choosing to stand firm in the midst of a storm gives us an anchor of hope, and we cannot be moved…

“I have set the LORD always before me; Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices; My flesh also will rest in hope. For You will not leave my soul in Sheol, Nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption. You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Psalms 16:8-11

God the Father did not leave His Son in the grave. He had a plan. There are some reading this who feel all is lost, the blessings of God have ceased, and the game is over – that hopes and dreams are as dead as in the grave. God will not abandon us in this place. This is temporary. God will reveal His path of life to you. So, just for today, we can allow our focus to be steadfastly on Jesus and His goodness and mercy. We can set the Lord before us and He will show Himself strong on our behalf.

~ Kirk Henderson