by Robin Wiley

Scripture
Hebrews 12:1-3 (ESV)

Jesus, Founder and Perfecter of Our Faith
12 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.

Do Not Grow Weary
3 Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.

Psalm 73:25-26
25 Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you. 26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

For the Adults:

Sam Storm wrote, “Someone once said that joy is not necessarily the absence of suffering, it is the presence of God.”[1] Joy is a vital and often misunderstood thing. It is frequently synonymous with happiness, but really joy is actually far greater. Happiness is fragile, and as quickly as it appears; it also vanishes. Joy, however, is a beautiful reminder from the Lord that our hope and peace are not built upon our circumstances or merely trusting in our own happiness.

In our GriefShare ministry – joy is a key part of the healing process from grief or the loss of a loved one. The journey is from mourning to joy – all through the hope and peace of Jesus.

There is no disputing that each of us will have moments of sadness, anxiety, fear, doubt, depression, anger, etc., but it is joy that reminds us of the One who holds all things together.

The writer of Hebrews reminds us of this often, and this is clearly seen in Hebrews 12:1-3. We are prompted to do a few things here.

We must lay aside the things which rob of us our affections for Jesus.
We must keep our focus upward on Him.
In all circumstance we must remember who God is in relation to who we are.

While things like suffering and sorrow are assured parts of our lives, joy is also assured to the believer. Joy is realization that even through the worst circumstances, Jesus is enough. Rest in this truth and pray Psalm 73:25-26 over yourself daily. Jesus is King, and that truly is joyful.

For the Kiddos:

Enter:

Being joyful means trusting in Jesus through all circumstances.

What are some ways you can exhibit joy this week?
In what ways is joy different than just happiness?
How would your life look differently if you were able to be more joyful?

Hear:

Read the Bible Passages. (Hebrews 12:1-3, Psalm 73:25-26 (ESV)) For younger children, a picture Bible may be used.

Pause

Take a few seconds, or maybe a minute to sit with the scripture in silence. This might be a great time to choose a different place to do your devotional time. Maybe sit outside or in the backyard and be still and let God’s word work in their hearts!

Wonder:

What are some negative emotions (fear, anxiety, anger, sadness, etc.) that you can give up and replace with joy?

Bless:

Affirm what was discussed about the story.

Pray this over yourself daily:
Psalm 73:25-26 (ESV)
25 Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you. 26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

Praise God, Give thanks, Pray for others, confess sins, Praise God!

Example:

Father God, I do not always understand our circumstances or our situations. I confess that I might fear, worry, and grieve at times, but I trust that in spite of all these things, You are still on Your throne. You have not forgotten me. You surround me in the darkness with your grace and mercy. Teach my heart to see You working all things out for my good and for Your glory, and teach me to be joyful in all things because of you who You are. In the name of Jesus - Amen.

[1] Sam Storms, Pleasures Evermore: The Life-Changing Power of Enjoying God (Colorado Springs: Navpress, 2000), 52.