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"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."
(Hebrews 12:1)
Running is hard, plain and simple. As Christian comedian Tim Hawkins puts it, "You do not see someone running and smiling at the same time!" Like a physical race, the Christian race is also not easy. We all have painful days or events that interrupt our otherwise tranquil lives. The writer of Hebrews gives us sage advice on how we can run and finish well. First, he motivates us by reminding us that we are not alone. Many faithful followers of God have gone before us, and their testimonies spur us on to good deeds.
Then in verse 1, our biblical text for today, he gives us this advice: "let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us." Running is hard enough without adding extra weight. I have seen people run with weighted backpacks, and I think to myself how miserable they must be. Carrying extra weight in a physical run will not only slow you down, but it will also most likely lead to you not being able to finish the race you started.
Sin is the spiritual weight that hinders all followers of Jesus in our race for Him. The enemy knows us all very well and loves tripping us up so that our testimony for the Lord is marred and weakened. He will continue to tempt you and me with the same temptations, if that tactic brings the sinister, desired results. For example, some sins that trip me up or weigh me down in my run for Christ are discouragement, worry, and simple lack of faith in God. How about you? What sinful entanglements and hindrances do you need to cast aside, place under the blood of Jesus, and run freely for Christ?
Hebrews 12:2 states, "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." Looking to Jesus is a powerful weapon in our spiritual arsenal when battling Satan's temptations to sin. Jesus endured, won the victory, and is now seated at the right hand of God the Father in glory. He will help us if we look to Him and rely on His strength to get us through those hard days.
I am praying for you, for each person who reads these devotions, that God would bless you with every spiritual blessing necessary in order that you might run for Jesus in such a way as to bring glory to Him.
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