Joy In Focus
OPENING PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, as we seek to understand true joy, open our hearts and minds to Your Word. May Your Holy Spirit guide us to focus on the joy that comes from You alone. Amen.
"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."
This passage reminds us of Jesus' focus on the joy beyond His suffering. Despite the pain of the cross, He looked forward to the joy of fulfilling God's plan for salvation.
REFLECT:
This weekend in Pastor Carter’s message, he highlighted that joy is a focus before it's a feeling. Jesus exemplified this by enduring the cross for the joy set before Him. His focus was not on the immediate pain but on the ultimate victory and joy of reconciling humanity with God. This teaches us that true joy is not dependent on our current circumstances but on the assurance of God's promises.
In our lives, we often seek joy in temporary things—possessions, achievements, or relationships. However, these can never fully satisfy the deep longings of our souls. Like Todd shared, even the most beautiful experiences or accomplishments can leave us searching for more. True joy, as Jesus demonstrated, is found in aligning our lives with God's purpose and trusting in His eternal plan.
Consider the struggles you face today. Is there an area of your life where you need to shift your focus from the immediate struggle to the joy of God's promised outcome? Jesus' example encourages us to endure with hope, knowing that our trials have a purpose and that God is working all things for our good. This perspective transforms our suffering into a pathway to deeper joy.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will confess and turn away from anything but Jesus to give me joy.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Lord Jesus, thank You for showing us that true joy is found in focusing on You. Help us to endure our trials with hope, trusting in Your promises. May we find joy in Your presence and purpose. Amen.