. . . let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. Hebrew 12:1
A runner will do many things to prepare for a race. They will work with weights to strengthen their legs, walk, jog, do push-ups, leg squats, get proper rest, eat proper food and of course, run long distances. All of this gives their minds and bodies the stamina required to finish the race well. What would any of us think if we saw someone running a race wearing weights around their ankles, carrying weights, or trying to run while wearing a winter coat? Right before the race starts, every runner strips down to the essentials. They set the weights down, toss away any extra clothing. They let go of anything and everything that will weigh them down, causing them to grow weary and give up.
The writer of Hebrews in chapter 12:1 compares the life of faith to a race.
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses,
let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely,
and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.”
Is there anything in your life that hinders your relationship with God (it may not be a sin)? Do you feel tired, worn down? If so, get rid of it with the help of the Holy Spirit. Start running again and make the quality decision never to quit. Stay on course.
Hebrews 12:2
Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith,
who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross,
despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
Keeping our eyes focused on Jesus, never letting anything distract us from His example, is how we have the ability and strength to run our race without quitting. Remember that Jesus became a human being and ran the same race we are running today. He was tempted like us, He had to deal with life’s pressures, AND He died on a cross! But Jesus never quit. Not only did Jesus finish the race, but He also WON the race. This makes Him a champion. The Champion. Our Champion!
Study how Jesus ran his race. He never lost sight of where he was headed. He put up with the Cross, shame, and everything the kingdom of darkness could throw at Him. And now, Jesus is sitting in the place of honor, right alongside Father God.
Hebrews 12:3
Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself,
so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.
Think carefully about how Jesus lived His life. Go over the story of Jesus again and again, item by item. Think about the long litany of hostility he plowed through. Doing this will shoot adrenaline into your soul!
Let’s run the life of faith with endurance!
Pastor Tom
Philippians 3:14, I press toward the mark of the high calling of Christ Jesus.