Yes, as we come to the Cross and stop, look up, we are filled with joy and gratitude. Those thoughts of discouragement are seen in the perspective that the world is unable to understand. Even Jesus has a sense of joy as He went to the Cross. (Hebrews 12:1-3). Why? Because He was looking past the Cross, past the tomb, and even past the resurrection. He was looking ahead to the time when all would be united in glory with Him. That day when every believer will see Him face to face.
"Whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory" (1 Peter 1:8 NKJV)
"Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is." (1 John 3:2 NKJV)
This is why James can say:
“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials.” (James 1:2 NKJV)
The same joy that Jesus had going to the Cross – We also have that same joy – we can suffer with joy. Why? Because we look past the suffering to the fact that we will be with Jesus. We will enjoy and experience all the benefits of being a child of God – with no more pain, no more tears.
"These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.” (John 15:11 NKJV)
"Most assuredly, I say to you that you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice; and you will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will be turned into joy. (21) "A woman, when she is in labor, has sorrow because her hour has come; but as soon as she has given birth to the child, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world. (22) "Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you.” (John 16:20-22 NKJV)
“But let all those rejoice who put their trust in You; Let them ever shout for joy, because You defend them; Let those also who love Your name Be joyful in You.” (Psalm 5:11 NKJV)
“Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, And uphold me by Your generous Spirit.” (Psalm 51:12 NKJV)
15. Are you experiencing the joy of the Lord as you come to the Cross and consider Him?
Log in / create an account to enroll or continue where you left off.
The video is of the Sunday School lesson that was taught: Lesson 3 – Joy