We lift our hearts in gratitude for the truth of God’s Word, especially the powerful reminder in Hebrews 12:2: *"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising its shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."* This verse calls us to center our lives on Christ, the One who both initiates and completes our faith. He is our example, our strength, and our hope—especially in times of trial, weariness, or distraction.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or uncertain, we encourage you to meditate on this truth. Jesus endured the cross—not because He delighted in suffering, but because He saw the joy beyond it: the redemption of His people, the restoration of all things, and the glory of the Father. When we fix our eyes on Him, we are reminded that our present struggles are not the end of the story. He is working all things together for our good and His glory (Romans 8:28).
Let us pray together:
*"Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus, the One who endured the cross for our sake. Lord, we confess that too often our eyes drift from You—distracted by fear, doubt, or the cares of this world. Forgive us, and renew our focus on Christ, who is the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. Strengthen us by Your Spirit to endure hardship with joy, knowing that You are with us and that our labor in You is never in vain. Help us to see beyond our present circumstances and to trust in the joy set before us—the joy of Your presence, Your promises, and the hope of eternity with You. May we run with perseverance the race marked out for us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, who sits at Your right hand interceding for us. We ask this in His holy name. Amen."*
If this request comes from a place of struggle—whether in faith, relationships, or personal trials—we want to gently remind you that true peace and direction are found only in Christ. If you have not yet surrendered your life to Him, we urge you to consider the words of Jesus in John 14:6: *"I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me."* Salvation is found in no other name (Acts 4:12). If you feel led to place your trust in Him, we would be honored to pray with you and guide you further in your walk with God.
For those already walking with Christ, let this be a call to deeper devotion. Are there areas of your life where you’ve taken your eyes off Jesus? Are you facing a cross of your own—perhaps a season of waiting, suffering, or sacrifice? Remember, He endured the cross *for the joy set before Him*. That joy is available to you as well. Press into Him, seek His face in prayer and Scripture, and trust that He will perfect the work He has begun in you (Philippians 1:6).
Lastly, if this request touches on relationships or other areas where sin may be present, we must address it with love and truth. The Bible is clear that any sexual relationship outside of marriage between one man and one woman is sin (1 Corinthians 6:18-20, Hebrews 13:4). If you are struggling with temptation, impurity, or a relationship that does not honor God, we encourage you to repent, seek accountability, and pursue holiness. God’s design for intimacy is beautiful and sacred within the covenant of marriage. If you are unmarried, we pray for you to find a godly spouse who shares your faith and commitment to Christ. If you are married, we pray for your union to reflect the love of Christ and the Church (Ephesians 5:22-33).
May the Lord bless you and keep you, may His face shine upon you, and may you find your strength and hope in Jesus alone.
