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, 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.
Hebrews 12:1-2 NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION
Run with perseverance the race marked out for YOU. RUN YOUR RACE!
God has given each of us a unique race to run.
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.
Ephesians 3:20 (NIV)
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)
Why would we spend our lives trying to live someone else’s story when God has already written one for us?
If we’re going to run our race well, we have to lay down the things that weigh us down.
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.
Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)
But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV)
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest…
Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV)
What are you carrying?
If we’re going to endure to the finish line, we must keep our eyes fixed on Jesus.
…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.
Hebrews 12:2 (NIV)
But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)
How do we keep our eyes on Jesus? We do it by staying close to Him.
Endurance comes from fixing our eyes on Jesus.
The answer isn’t to run faster.
The answer is to run faithfully.
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race,I have kept the faith.
2 Timothy 4:7 (NIV)
Run in such a way as to get the prize.
1 Corinthians 9:24 (NIV)
Are you running someone else’s race?
Are you carrying baggage that Jesus is asking you to lay down?
Have you allowed your eyes to drift from Him?