Hebrews 12:1: Let us run with patient endurance and steady and active persistence
Hebrews 12:1 (Amplified Bible, Classic Edition)
Therefore then, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who have borne testimony to the Truth], let us strip off and throw aside every encumbrance (unnecessary weight) and that sin which so readily (deftly and cleverly) clings to and entangles us, and let us run with patient endurance and steady and active persistence the appointed course of the race that is set before us,
The writer of Hebrews tells us through the leading and inspiration of the Holy Spirit to strip off and throw aside every encumbrance of sin that would try to cling to us and destroy the purposes of God in our lives. When we allow sin into our lives and we give into temptation, it is as if we are adding unneeded weight upon us as we try to run this race and journey of faith.
The writer of Hebrews tells us to run with patient endurance and steady and active persistence. This is not a 100 meter sprint, this is a marathon. Daily we find ourselves in the middle of a spiritual battle. We have an invisible enemy who is trying to do all he can to destroy the purposes and plans God has for us. The way he tries to gain access into our heart and mind is through temptation. When we come to Christ we are set free from slavery and bondage to Satan. But when you and I give into temptation we open the door for Satan to influence us and destroy us. If we give an inch, he will take a mile.
We are told about the great cloud of witnesses. Before chapter twelve in chapter eleven we are given many of the names that are found in the faith hall of fame. These are men and women who have faithfully served the Lord upon the earth. It doesn’t mean they were perfect, but they faithfully served the Lord. In light of this truth and understanding, we as believers should run our race with persistence and endurance. Casting off every sin that so easily entangles and has the sole purpose of destroying us.
As followers of Jesus Christ we have one mission and that is to live for Him. In all that we do we should desire to bring glory and honor to the Lord. When our sole desire and purpose is to honor and glorify Christ in everything, His blessing will be poured out in abundance in every area of our lives. Healing and restoration will come as a result of seeking first His kingdom and His righteousness.
God has a specific plan and purpose for our lives. The very way that God has created us is specifically designed because of the race and journey He has set out for us. We must remember His grace is sufficient. No matter what we face we will overcome through Jesus Christ. In this moment of time if we are weary and tired we must cling to Jesus and seek Him for His strength and His endurance. He has not called us to do this alone. He has called us to partner with Him each step of the way.
Prayer
Father, today I am tired and worn out. I ask you to strengthen me by your might and your power. Fill me with your endurance to faithfully run the race you have marked out for me. Help me to stand in the day of battle and against every assault and accusation of the enemy. I pray that my mind and heart will be fixed upon you and your word. May my life be built upon your promises. May my life bring glory and honor to you in all places. Remove from my life anything that would hinder what you desire to accomplish. My life no longer belongs to me. I surrender it fully to you and ask you to use it for your will and purposes. In the name of Jesus, Amen!