The Surprising Path to Joy

God has more for us than comfortable lives.

Comfort can be a beautiful blessing. But it is a terrible god that hides behind the veneer of pleasure.

Jesus shows us a better way in Hebrews 12:2, but at first, it might not make sense.

“…fixing our eyes on Jesus… [who for] the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

Jesus endured suffering, shame, and rejection for the JOY on the other side of the cross!

He shows us:

→ Faithfulness is not drudgery.
→ Comfort is not joy.

He says in John 15:11: “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.”

We can’t add anything more to something that is complete.

While pain isn’t the “formula” for joy, obedience is uncomfortable on the narrow way.

But Jesus was inspired by a joy so great…

So unimaginable…

He could look through the horror of the cross itself!

He staked it all on the Psalm 16:11 truth:

“You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”

Elevating comfort about Christ robs us of life, joy, and eternal pleasure.

Obedience is delight—not drudgery.

Let’s follow Jesus today.