Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Hebrews 12:1-2 NLT
The eleventh chapter of Hebrews is often called the “Hall of Faith”.
It tells the stories of those who served God with great passion and unflinching faithfulness through the toughest of times.
They suffered, risked, obeyed and trusted God to do what only He can do.
This verse says that the way they lived their lives, and seeing how they trusted God, is like having a great grandstand of people cheering you on as you follow Jesus.
What are they telling you?
They are telling you to throw off everything that hinders and run the race God has called you to run.
Not your mom’s race or your neighbor’s faith race but your faith race.
They are telling you to keep focused on the finish line and lay down whatever is weighing you down from getting there: other people’s opinions, irrational fears, fear-laden doubts, time-wasting worries.
They know that a life of faith isn’t easy and that the only way you can do it is by keeping your eyes on Jesus.
Keep your eyes on Jesus, my friend, take a deep breath and run your race.
