John Chapter 19 verses 28-30 (NIV)
Later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I am thirsty.” A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips. When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
Even approaching His finally earthly moments, Jesus acted in a manner to allow scripture to be fulfilled. Even in His pain and suffering He didn’t act purely for Himself, He made a choice to be obedient even there. He knew what He was doing.
That pulled me up. So often when I’m having a difficult time, it’s easy to wallow and feel sorry for myself. Having a really hard time, however, doesn’t give me the right to do as I please. God still expects obedience. Jesus shows us that. It is in the obedience that we come through the other side, stronger and closer to God.
Dear Lord,
Help me to be obedient in the hard times. Thank You that Jesus showed us how, and the Holy Spirit will give us the strength. Amen.