Choose JoySample

DAY 2 – SUSTAINING JOY

Reflection: As Jesus was arrested, mocked, beaten, whipped, betrayed and finally nailed to a cross where he died, something sustained him.

It was joy.

As impossible as this seems, we know how the story ends. Although there were countless moments where Jesus could have escaped the cross, he chose to endure it instead. Not just the physical pain, but the emotional shame and spiritual isolation.

And he was able to endure it because of the joy that comes from trusting that God is good and his plans are perfect.

The way of joy is not where we think. It’s not in taking the easy way out. It’s not in instant gratification. It’s in following God’s ways. Thankfully, God is not asking us to endure the cross – Jesus did that for us. But he does ask us to turn away from anything that gets between him and us, and to hold on to the joy set before us, even when darkness threatens.

Today's key verse was written thousands of years ago to remind people just like us that when life seems too hard, we are to remember how Jesus overcame through joy, and do the same.

Choose joy: Are there choices that create distance between you and God? They may seem to offer pleasure or ease, but will end badly. Talk to God about them now, and talk to a trusted Christian friend or leader if you need more help.