Some things come with handles designed for easier carrying. Sometimes a single handle is sufficient. However, some things come with two handles enabling one to hold on with both hands. Do we at times feel that way about life; that to make it through we must hold on with both hands? However, what or who we hold to will make all the difference in life.
It has been said, “It’s not what happens to you that determines how far you will go in life; it is how you handle what happens to you.” (Zig Ziglar)
Jesus took on flesh and walked this earth and was treated cruelly and unfairly. He Who deserved the greatest honor was treated with dishonor. Still, He pressed on and went the distance for us (and the world) who were the ones deserving what He tasted for us. (Galatians 1:4; 1 John 2:2) The writer of Hebrews noted the Lord’s perspective for endurance where we read. . .
“(1) Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, (2) looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:1-2 ESV)
The experience of the cross was not in and of itself a joyful experience, but an excruciating one for our Lord. However, the joy before Him was the sufficient accomplishment on our behalf. Jesus endured with joy of the end result in mind!
Paul experienced severe situations (i.e. 2 Corinthians 11:23-28) just as it had been foretold he would. (Acts 9:16) Still, writing to Christians at Philippi, as a prisoner in Rome Paul declared. . .
“(10) I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. (11) Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. (12) I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. (13) I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:10-13 ESV)
Paul learned to press on despite the varied situations of life because He did so not based on his own strength, but that of the Lord. He had learned to deal with whatever situation he was in by focusing on the sufficiency in Christ!
How well are we doing at handling life’s varied circumstances and situations? Consider two handles for living life. One is to learn contentment with what we have. The second is looking to Christ to where He continually leads. A steadfast resolve to continue walking on in Christ will bring us the distance He is leading; to the eternity He went to prepare for us. How we handle what happens in between is important to consider lest we fall short of the ultimate Christ continues to lead through and toward. In the joy of His gracious provision for our salvation and knowing even greater eternal blessing is yet to come, let us press on as we hold tightly to the assurance “God, who never lies” (Titus 1:2) has given!
Have a great day HOLDING WHOLLY TO OUR HOPE IN CHRIST!
Carl
