(Read the previous devotion here.)
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God.”
Hebrews 12:1-2
These were my grandmother’s favorite verses, and this passage really rebalances my perspective when objectively looking at my Christian walk.
12:1 – The cloud of witnesses refers to the people of faith in Chapter 11. They are not actually just spectators watching, but they are witnesses testifying to the truth of faith (11:2, 4-6). The weight references anything that hinders a runner.
12:-2 – “Looking” here means “fixing one’s eyes trustingly.” We need to consistently focus on Christ instead of our own circumstances. Finisher: Christ has done everything necessary for us to endure in our faith. He is our example and model, for He focused on the joy that was set before Him. His attention was not on the agonies of the Cross, but on the crown; not on the suffering, but the reward.
Prayer:
Father, we thank You and love You. We appreciate all that You have done for us and thank You for the ability to run Your race. We ask the Holy Spirit to guide us with patience, giving us the ability to make choices which align with Your will. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Jim Brock
(Read the next devotion here.)
