Look To Jesus


Palm Sunday begins the Passion Week of Jesus' life which is the seven days before His crucifixion. I cannot even begin to imagine what was going through the Savior's mind as He knew what type of death that He must die. However Hebrews 12:2 gives us a glimpse of what he was thinking. It says, "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 is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." The Good News translation of this verse gives it more clarity. "Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from beginning to end. He did not give up because of the cross! On the contrary, because of the joy that was waiting for him, he thought nothing of the disgrace of dying on the cross, and he is now seated at the right side of God's throne."

Jesus had joy in his heart at the thought of presenting us His church before the Father. The joy gave Him the strength to endure. William Barclay said this of endurance, "Endurance is not just the ability to endure a hard thing, but to turn it into glory." Hallelujah! The humility of Jesus death on the cross was turned into glory! This is why the scripture tells us to look to Jesus. Don't look at what you are going through. Look to Jesus. His death was turned into glory so that you and I can know that whatever hard thing that we are going through shall be turned into glory!

Another verse that gives strong encouragement through the hard things of life is Romans 8:28, "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." Whatever it is that you are going through right now will work out for your good! It's all in the mix; the good, the bad and the ugly! The great Apothecary, Jesus, will take it all, turn it around and transform it into a glorious testimony.

The enemy wants to discourage you and tell you that your hard thing is the worst thing ever. He lies and says that no one else has experienced what you are experiencing to create a sense of despair. If you are feeling like this, you must look to Jesus! Look to the cross! He died so that you could be free from all discouragement, depression and despair. He shed His blood therefore you are free, forgiven and full of His love. So instead of feeling down, look up by faith and see Jesus! He died so you could be free!

As you go through this week keep your eyes fixed and focused on Him. Reflect on the fact that Jesus died so that you could be free. He went through all that He went through so that you get through all that you are going through. So instead of being discouraged, encourage yourself with James 1:2-4, "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." So my beloved brothers and sisters, look to Jesus and count it all joy! He will perfect that which concerns you!

Until next time...

Love, peace and blessing,

Dr. Sheila

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