Strength for the Journey
Hebrews 12:1-3 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Chapter 11 of the book of Hebrews is known as the Hall of Fame of the Faith. The chapter list out many of the faithful found in Scripture. You and I could add others that we know who have lived out their faith in trying times but always remains faithful to God. In Hebrews Chapter 12 verse 1 the author looks back to find strength for the journey ahead. In essence he says, considering the faithful of those who have come before us, the cloud of witness in verse one, let us be encouraged and move forward in our own faith journey. With this in mind we are instructed to lay aside things that hinder us which would include sin, but also things that are not sinful but distract us from the task at hand. The business of our culture is staggering. We have more opportunities to be active than any other generation. We can easily be distracted. Then we are told to run with endurance. This is a mindset. We are to look long term, over a life time. Faith is not a one-time event, but a daily event that we choose over a lifetime. We also need to realize that God has set out a path before each of us. Our paths may be similar, but they will always be unique to us. Ultimately, we are to look to Jesus. He has journeyed this path before us. He knows about temptation. He knows about people failing Him. Through these Jesus endured. Because He has endured, because the great cloud of witnesses before us have endured, let us endure as well. Look to Jesus for the encouragement and strength. Look to Jesus for the wisdom and guidance. Don’t give up because you have a heavenly audience that is cheering you on.
