Following the testimony of what we might call heroes of faith in God, we read this in Hebrews 12:1-2 (NIV)
“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.”
Notice that Jesus made it through all his terrible trials and death by what he did with his thoughts; “for the joy set before him he endured the cross…” That is, he concentrated his attention on what, I suggest, was the joy of God’s purpose for him. He never lost sight of it. Like he said to those opposing him, and with reference to the Father, “I always do those things that please him.” (John 8:29b)
Now, in all our difficulties, what Jesus did with respect to the Father, we are called to do with respect to him. Here’s how it reads, “fixing our eyes on Jesus”.
We keep your eyes on Jesus by staying focused on his purpose for us as it relates to whatever part of the race track we’re on.
