DaySpring Daily Word of Inspiration: Hebrews 12:1-2 – Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And 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. 

What stops us from doing what God would have us to do vs. what we want to do? It is our focus! Focus allows us to be intentional and directional in our efforts to be and do what it is we desire.

Some would say that it’s impossible to not be focused on sin when it is all around us. If that’s so, let’s take a look at what Jesus did when He was surrounded by the same sin that can easily get us off track:

The scripture says that “For the joy set before him he endured…..”. Well, what JOY was there for Jesus in taking on the cross and all of its shame? The joy Jesus was FOCUSED on was being able to be back with the Father at His right hand in paradise. Jesus was intent on making sure that he followed through on what was prophesied and what was his purpose, even in the face of sinful adversity.

Jesus didn’t come down off of the cross and make excuses about how hard the action was. Remember, just earlier in that morning He knew what he was going to go through on the cross. He had all of the reason in the world to be more critical of the situation than on the purpose he was here to fulfill. Nevertheless, he was focused and he did not sin. He didn’t let what others were saying, doing, or about to do sway his intention to redeem God’s people. Jesus didn’t allow the sinfulness of man to dictate his actions or hinder God’s vision and will for his life; he ran to his destiny of dying on the cross for us. He had his Father’s business in mind, stayed the course.

What say you today? How intentional and purposeful have you been along your Christian journey? Through Jesus’ adversity he made sure that he got God’s work done in his life AND with his life. Jesus was able to do this because he had his eyes, heart and mind fixed on the joy of being reunited with his father.

What joy are you trying to gain? Where are your intentions with regards to God’s work & his will for your life being lived out? Moreover, what are you focused on? Is it your bills, kids, career, problems, or spouse?

Jesus knew that his obedience in being focused on God and his work would get him back to God! Where is your focus leading you NOW and are you sure it’s worth the journey?

Today, we pray that we can begin to release ourselves from the things, sins and ungodly situations that we put ourselves in, which steal our focus away from the only thing that truly matters – doing whatever it takes to get back to God and in his family. Get refocused and allow your eyes to get fixed on Jesus so he can show you the way to true joy. In Jesus’ name, AMEN!