‘Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. ‘

Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV

when things get hard for us, it’ll help us, to remember what’s ahead of us.

Discussion Questions

In Hebrews 12:1-2, we are told to “throw off everything that hinders” and “run with perseverance.” What kinds of things are currently weighing you down or entangling you as you try to follow Jesus? How does the promise of joy ahead help you persevere in those struggles?

Luke 22:15 shows Jesus eagerly looking forward to the Last Supper, even knowing the suffering He would face. How does Jesus’ ability to look forward to joy in the midst of pain challenge your own approach to hardship? What can you learn from His example?

In the sermon, we heard the analogy of climbing a mountain and enduring the struggle for the reward of the view at the top. What is a current “mountain” you’re facing in life, and how can the perspective of “what’s ahead” help you continue to climb despite the difficulty?

Hebrews 12:2 says that Jesus endured the cross “for the joy set before Him.” What kind of joy do you think Jesus saw that enabled Him to endure? How can that same vision of joy help you endure your present challenges?

Reflecting on the sermon’s point that “when things get hard for us, it’ll help us to remember what’s ahead of us,” how can we practically keep our focus on the joy and promises God has set before us when we feel overwhelmed by the present? What are some tangible ways you can remind yourself of God’s future promises in your daily life?

Read Revelation 21:1-8. Reflect on what is ahead for those who follow Jesus. How can this help you endure when thigns get hard in life now?