“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
Experiencing hardship is never easy. In fact, it can be downright agonizing, exhausting, and depressing.
There have been moments in my life where I have instantly sensed God’s awesome presence with me during a difficult circumstance. But there have been even more instances when it seemed as though God was nowhere to be found.
While Jesus was in the garden of Gethsemane awaiting His fate, His sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground as He prayed. He knew that what He was about to endure was going to be excruciatingly difficult (Luke 22:44). He didn’t even hesitate to ask God if He could be spared from the suffering.
Jesus felt utterly alone. Even His friends had fallen asleep during the most crucial moment in his life.
No one enjoys going through trials, especially feeling alone in them. But in these moments, God asks us to trust Him.
Not only did Jesus ask if His cup of suffering could pass, but He prayed for strength and embraced the will of His heavenly Father who gave Him the power to endure. As Hebrews 12:2 says, He endured the cross for the joy set before Him.
Hard times will pass. But with patience, prayer, and a heart full of hope and trust, we can live through them, knowing God can give us a deep joy that will outlast any pain and sorrow.
Thank You, heavenly Father, for the gift of Your Holy Spirit to comfort me during this difficult time in my life. I ask for Your strength to empower me, and for hope to fill my heart. May I walk through this situation trusting You and believing that You have something good in store for me and those around me. I open my heart to Your will and Your way in my life. Amen.
By Brigitte Straub
Used by permission
Further Reading
• How to be Filled with the Holy Spirit
• How to Fall in Love with Jesus by Sylvia Gunter
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