...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.

- Hebrews 12:2

Hebrews 12 reads, “[Jesus] who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross...”

Try and comprehend that: Jesus goes to the cross for joy's sake.

Jesus knew ultimate joy is found in obedience to the Father's will— even obedience unto death.

John 15:10-11 reads, “If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.”

“That your JOY may be full...”

The fullness of joy is found in obeying the Father.

It sounds contradictory. It feels incongruous. Joy from submission? Joy from obedience? Joy from dying to self and bowing to another? How is that possible?

It is possible because God wants what is best for us.

God has on His mind what is best for us.

God has declared, decreed, and demonstrated what is best for us.

When you meet someone, who has only your best interest at heart, you can't help but want to follow them. Obedience is the natural progression.

So we follow Christ, striving to obey His words all of our lives. If you want to follow Jesus Christ to glory, you have to follow Him in duty, and both are joyous works.

Your prayer today, “Lord help me fond joy in obedience. Teach me O' God.”

Press on,
Pastor Harp