In this heartfelt message, Joel Middlemass encourages us to fix our eyes on the Lord Jesus and to understand faith as simply “looking unto Jesus.” Drawing especially from Hebrews 11–12, Joel contrasts the imperfect examples of faith found in Hebrews 11 with Jesus Christ, the perfect example and the Author and Finisher of our faith.
Joel reflects on Abel’s wholehearted devotion to God, showing how his faith pointed toward the character of Christ. He then considers Hebrews 12:2 and the joy that was set before Jesus—the joy that enabled Him to endure the cross, despise the shame, and accomplish the work His Father had given Him.
The message also explores the tremendous love of Christ displayed at the cross. The Lord Jesus willingly endured suffering, rejection, shame, and death because of His love and because of the joy set before Him. Joel emphasizes that Christ was victorious, rising from the dead and ascending to the Father, making the way possible for believers to have hope and the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Joel then gives practical examples of faith. From Peter walking on the water in Matthew 14, he shows that faith means keeping our eyes on the Lord rather than becoming consumed by the storms around us, our circumstances, or our own abilities. When Peter took his eyes off the Lord Jesus and looked at the storm, he began to sink—but when he cried out to the Lord, the Lord immediately reached out and caught him.
The encouragement is simple and deeply personal: when we find ourselves overwhelmed by the storms of life, look back to Jesus. He is the One who leads us, sustains us, completes the work, and remains worthy of our complete trust.