Daily Bible Study

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Day 160 Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, we also, since a great cloud of witnesses surrounds us, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls. What makes you happy? Does sorrow, affliction, bitterness of heart, bring happiness to your life? Not usually. The author told the Jews Jesus endured the cross and its shame with joy, because He was the author and finisher of their faith. He then sat down at God’s right hand on His throne. He told them to consider what Jesus went through for them and not become weary and discouraged in their souls in their work for Him. Many Christians put boundaries on what they will do for Jesus. They want to live comfortable lives for the gospel of Jesus Christ. They don’t want to endure anything that would make them uncomfortable, bring hardship, or even death. They are happy someone else is willing to go into the line of fire for their faith. Just don’t ask them to do it. The gospel has never been comfortable. Christians who go to the front lines find joy in the work God sets before them. They find hope when a soul accepts Jesus as Savior and Lord. Nothing is too hard for them when it comes to winning souls for the gospel of Jesus Christ. They willingly face death for the gospel. Their joy is complete because they know who they trust to bring them through every hardship. They know that whether they live or die for the gospel, they win. They are the ones who don’t become weary for the gospel of Jesus Christ. What are you willing to endure for the gospel of Jesus Christ? Does the work you do for the gospel bring joy to your life? Let’s pray: Father, help me stand firm in my faith as I bring the gospel to everyone who hears it. Let joy fill me as people accept You as Savior and Lord, knowing You are the author and finisher of my faith. Help me endure to the end the work You have for me. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. Copyright © 23 December 2023 by Valerie Routhieaux The image belongs to me.