The Joy Set Before Us by L. A. S.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D.C. · Feb 15, 1906

The Joy Set Before Us

By L. A. S.

Of the secret of the stedfastness of Jesus during the years of his ministry in human flesh, it is written that he “endured the cross, despising the shame,” “for the joy that was set before him.” The same joy is set before his followers, for at the close of their earthly labors and trials it will be said to each of them, “Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.”

The question of the nature of the thing that is set before us as the goal of our ambitions, is a very important one; for it may be that we have put something of our own in the place of that which God has set before us. It may be that we are directing our efforts toward some earthly goal, something dear to earthly ambition, as power, wealth, or the applause of men. It is impossible to run successfully the Christian race while the joy that is set before us as the Christian’s reward is eclipsed by some other desire. If such is the case, we need not be surprised that our efforts do not prove satisfactory, and we make crooked paths and uncertain progress in the heavenward journey.

The joy is still set before us, though we may not see it. But if we do not, let us set everything else aside, and make that joy the goal of our efforts in the Christian life. By having the faith of Jesus, we shall be able to keep that goal always within our view. L. A. S.