Examples of Faith #8—Jesus

Since he himself suffered when he was tested, he is able to help those who are tested. Therefore … take note of Jesus, the apostle and high priest whom we confess, who was faithful to him who appointed him. … Jesus is the primary example and perfecter of our faith. For the joy set out for him he endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. Think of him who endured such opposition against himself by sinners, so that you may not grow so weary that you give up. Hebrews 3:1–2; 12:2–3

If the outcome of someone’s life of faith should compel us to examine that person’s faith more closely, then we would be foolish to neglect looking at Jesus. We know there are many others who have been commended for their faith and their faithfulness. But Jesus is our primary example, the Firstborn Son who trusted as much of the Father as he knew of him. Because of the maturity of his faith, he remained faithful every time he was tested. He stood firm against Satan’s efforts to undermine him and against Peter’s efforts to enthrone him. Despite the opposition he faced—opposition that ultimately ended in his crucifixion—he did not back down. Despite the hostility he encountered, he did not return evil for evil, or tire in his effort to accomplish his mission. Despite the prospect of experiencing the Father’s wrath on our behalf, he loved us to the end. Why? And, how? Because of, and by looking forward to, the joy that he would experience governing creation with his Father. God has set the possibility of a similar joy before us as well, so that we will trust him as the Son did. When Jesus reappears, we will be changed to be like him. Then we will govern with him, regal citizens of a kingdom in which the grace of the King flows through us all for us all.

Lord, grant that I will keep in mind the future you’ve secured so that my faith in the present sustains me in every trial.