Scripture: Hebrews 12:1–3

Contributor: Deacon Selena Washington

KEEP RUNNING THE RACE

1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3

Hebrews 12:1–3 uses the metaphor of an athletic race to describe the Christian journey of faith. It emphasizes endurance, the removal of distractions, and the ultimate example of Jesus' own sacrifice.

Encouragement from the Past: The "cloud of witnesses" refers to Old Testament heroes (like Abraham, Noah, Moses, Enoch) whose lives testified to God's faithfulness.

Laying Aside Weights: means getting rid of anything—even things that aren't "sins" but are just distractions or bad habits that can slow you down.

Casting Off Sin: This is specifically sin which encircles you, that trips up the runner, calling for a life of active repentance.

How do we do this? Hebrews 2 tells us to look unto Jesus. He is our example of perseverance.

The core instruction is to look away from your sinful nature, focus on Jesus, and endure the marathon of a Christian life.

When you feel like giving up, think about what Jesus went through. Comparing your "hills" to His "mountains" gives you a reality check that helps you find the second wind you need to keep moving. Keep your head up and "lock in."

Let us pray:

Father, I come before You, thanking You for the great cloud of witnesses that surrounds me, reminding me that I am not walking this journey alone. Lord, I ask for Your strength and grace to lay aside every weight and the sin that clings closely to me.

Help me to run with perseverance the race that You have set before me, not looking to the distractions of the world, but fixing my eyes solely on Jesus. Thank You, Jesus, for being the author and perfecter of my faith. May I walk in constant obedience and dependence on You, living as a faithful witness, until I reach the finish line.

In Jesus’ name, I pray.

Amen.

SUBMITTED BY DEACON SELENA WASHINGTON

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Scripture: Psalm 51:10-12

Contributor: Eld. Apryl Redwood

Say Yes and Start Fresh

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from

your presence and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation

and uphold me with a willing spirit.

Psalm 51:10-12 ESV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Scripture: Matthew 4:1-2

Contributor: Eld. Rev. Dennis Henderson

“Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the

devil. And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, afterward He was

hungry.”

Matthew 4:1-2

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.