He knew what was at stake.

I once heard a passage by Max Lucado which encouraged me. I don't know which book it was read from, nor who read it, but the message is embedded in my soul deeply.

Jesus knew what would happen in his trial, betrayal, and death. He had the power to strike the religious leaders dumb, and so much more, to prevent His death. However, He knew what was at stake. He knew what He had to do. He knew, on Sunday what would happen on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday… But he had his eyes set on what would happen on Resurrection Sunday.

That really touched me. Jesus had His eyes on YOU and ME!!!  

How encouraging to meditate on all the intense restraint He had to show.

Jesus didn't stop with His death, His burial, or His resurrection. He knew His example wasn't enough. Knowing what’s in a man, Jesus also sent His own Spirit to counsel, encourage, and convict us!

HOW sweet is His blood, shed for us! How precious is His love. How sound and determined in mind! How strong in strength and perseverance!

"For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."  - Hebrews 12:3, NASB 

Abba, Thank You for Your amazing love and grace in our lives. Thank You that my chains are gone. Thank You for Jesus' perseverance and example. Help us to rely on You more each day, that we will persevere as well. In Jesus' name…