Devotional: Looking to Jesus, not my circumstances

“Therefore, since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every hindrance and the sin that so easily ensnares us. Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. For the joy that lay before him, he endured the cross, despising the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God..”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12:1-2‬ ‭CSB‬‬

Recently, I started school again, pursuing a theology degree with an emphasis on mission and outreach. A month after beginning classes, I found myself starting a new role as co-pastor of our local church.

Returning to graduate school and starting a new vocation in my forties has all the feels to it. Excitement. Nervousness. Uncertainty. Anxiousness. Happiness. Anticipation. 

Admittedly, when I have a big thing in front of me, like a new job or school or a move or fill-in-the-blank, I wonder if this is really too big for me. How will I make it through this? How will I endure? Will I learn everything I need? Will I be good enough?

That's why it's good for me to remember who I need to keep my eyes fixed on. 

Jesus. 

The passage for today is my life scripture. I’ve held onto this since I was in college the first time. I am reminded of a few things in these short verses.

First, there are others who have gone through big challenges too. Not only did they survive, but they thrived for God’s glory! Second, no matter what I’m facing, as long as I keep my eyes on Jesus, I can endure anything. Third, there is nothing that I will go through that Jesus has not endured more of. His example of perseverance is what I hold tight to.

Prayer: Father, my circumstances feel big sometimes. Too big for me. Remind me to keep my eyes fixed on you, the author of my faith. Remind me that victory does not rest on my efforts but rather on you working in and through me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.