Fixed on the Rock
READ: Hebrews 12:1-13
Throughout the school year, Angela spent most of her time studying her schoolwork. She did not have much free time at all to have fun with her friends. Because of this, many of her friends stopped hanging out with her. This left Angela feeling pretty depressed. However, when it was time for final exams, all of Angela’s friends felt helpless because of their lack of studying. Her friends all got bad grades, but Angela received straight “A’s.” Her persistence had paid off in the end.
We may feel like Angela sometimes. Torn between schoolwork and friends, we do not know which to choose. Once in awhile, it may seem as though nothing we do is right. In Hebrews 12:2, God tells us that we should, “Fix our eyes on Jesus, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand at the throne of God.” No matter what troubles we are dealt in life, we know that God will be with us. He also promises that “all things work together for the good of those that love him.” (Romans 8:28)
So, when you are feeling down, just remember all the suffering that Jesus endured for us. Because of this suffering, we are promised eternal life.
THINGS TO THINK ABOUT: If you were Angela, what would you do? How might your friends have reacted? How might you treat your friends after they ridiculed you?
PRAYER SUGGESTIONS: Ask God to help you or a friend through a troubling time in life. Thank God for His promise of salvation through Jesus’ death.