Read Hebrews 5:7-8 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
- What did Jesus offer to the one who could rescue Him from death?
- Why did God hear Jesus’ prayers?
- What did Jesus learn from the things He suffered?
Reflect
If anyone knew what it was like to face suffering, it was Jesus. He went to a cross for us. It was the biggest closed door anyone had ever seen – death and only death – with no hope of life or opportunity. Yet He remained obedient in the midst of it. His faithfulness was expressed in the greatest act of suffering, all so we could experience the hope of eternal life.
The call to follow Jesus doesn’t mean being shielded from suffering. If God didn’t spare His own Son, He’s not going to spare us. He will, however, give us the power to persevere. Faithfulness is learned through hard experiences – the losses, trials, and moments when everything in us wants to give up. When we’re weak and tired, it leads us to the source of life.
If you find yourself with little strength right now, you might be tempted to give up. But remember the example of Jesus. Faithfulness is greater than strength, because when you’re faithful in spite of your feelings and circumstances, that’s when His strength shows up. He’ll give you the power to persevere.
Respond
- How does Jesus’ example of faithfulness inspire or challenge you? Is there anything new that stood out in today’s reading?
- Do feelings tend to override everything else in your life? How does this impact your ability to persevere?
- How have you seen hard experiences grow faithfulness in you? How could you begin growing it now for the next time you face suffering?
Pray through these questions, and write down what God is prompting you to do next. Share with a friend, and take a step to apply it.