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 12:2 (NIV)
Part 6 of 11
The Power of the Cross
Jesus Shows Us How to Handle Difficult Times
Scripture
Ever wonder why the day of Jesus' death is referred to as “Good” Friday, since it’s a day that involved so much pain, agony and heartache? It’s because the result of this particular Friday—Christ’s resurrection from the dead on Sunday—was good.
There are usually two sides to everything. The cross has two: a crucifixion side and a resurrection side. Hebrews 12:2 says that Jesus, for the joy of obtaining the prize on the other side of the cross—the resurrection—endured the pain.
Jesus had to endure one side to get to the other. But if He hadn’t endured, then we’d all still be left without a Savior and no forgiveness of our sins.
Like Jesus, we have to endure difficult things. When we go through hard times, we can think of enduring as “to outlast the devil; to be steadfast long enough to let the trial do whatever it’s going to do in our lives and get from one side of the cross to the other.” We can trust that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28 NIV).
It’s comforting to know—and really believe—things will work out okay...even on a day like Good Friday, with so much suffering and pain. When nothing made sense and everything was hard, God worked it out for good—giving us the greatest blessing we could ever receive.
When life is hard, remember that Jesus experienced hard times too...the road to the cross was no small matter. Be encouraged by the way Jesus handled trials. He knew the joy that was before Him and persevered until the end. He’s given you the power to do the same (Romans 8:11).
Love Is the Ultimate Power!
Need encouragement to get through the challenges you’re facing? Joyce has a few helpful tips for you. Read Now
How Do I Get Through Hard Times?
How do we have faith in the middle of difficult circumstances or when we feel like there’s no way forward? Joyce encourages us that God is with us through it all…and shares the most important thing to do when times are tough.
Key Scripture
Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. - Romans 8:17 (NIV)
From Joyce
"We do not grow or become strong during life’s good times; we grow when we press through difficulties without giving up.”
Challenge
Take time to read and reflect on John 19—the Crucifixion, death, and burial of Jesus. Then write a note or prayer to Jesus, thanking Him for all He’s done for you.
Prayer
Father, help me to remember the pain and suffering of the cross, and all that Jesus was willing to endure, so I could be set free. He paid the price so my sins would be forgiven and I could have eternal life. Help me never to take for granted this huge gift of love. In Jesus' name, amen.
How to Know Jesus
It’s time to experience Christ’s love and embrace a brand-new beginning in Him.
Come home today.
