“Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider...Christ Jesus.”
(Heb. 3:1)
“For consider him that endured...lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.”
(Heb. 12:2)
The word consider in out texts can have a twofold meaning: a prolonged, concentrated gaze, like that of an astronomer, and also to compare or weigh. Taken together we’re told to fix our minds consciously on Christ, comparing and weighing happenings in His life with our own. It will act as a stimulant in keeping us from fainting.
To regard Him during the tough times in life will keep us in times of discouragement, suffering, temptation, self-pity, lethargy, misunderstanding, loss, and a host of other unbearable hurts and heartaches. Peter tells us, “Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps.” (1 Pet. 2:21)
In the Old Testament there is a story how God’s people, thirsty and faint, came to a body of water only to find out that they were bitter, in spite of the fact their path was in the way of God’s choosing. Moses prayed and God showed him a tree. After casting it into the waters they became sweet. Peter says He died on a tree! (Acts 5:30)
“Sufferings are but as little chips of the cross.”
(Puritan Saying)
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