I have a friend that sends me a text with a Bible verse and a related question each morning. Sometimes they hit home and match either a circumstance I am dealing with or something going on in general in the world. The one they sent yesterday referenced Hebrews 12:1, the end of the current year and the beginning of the new year. It made me think about staying focused on Christ and focused on the path we are on.
The question within yesterday’s text was, “What do you need to let go of, so that you can enter this new year ready to run the race that is set before you?” As I have thought about this question over the past couple of days, I find myself looking at ways to figure out what needs to be left behind and the areas of my life that need to be strengthened for the upcoming year
In Hebrews 11 the strength of faith of those that were mentioned in the Hall of Faith was proclaimed worthy. Then in Chapter 12, the writer declares to the possible second-generation Church that since they were encircled by so many that were witnessing their lives that they should do everything in their power to turn away from worldly troubles and temptations which so easily tempted them. He then told them that life is like a race and they should pace themselves to run it with patience.
He told them to keep their eyes on Christ as He was the author and finisher of their faith. Christ saw through to the other side of the agony and shame of the cross to the joy after the resurrection. After Christ paid the price for our sins, He then sat down at the right hand of the throne of God, where He is waiting for us to join Him.
What is the challenge for us within these verses? The world is watching how we live our lives. They surround us on all sides. The challenge could be for us to stay focused and remain on the right path so that we can lead others to Christ.
We can apply this to our lives by making an effort to see where we are on that path and who is surrounding us. We need to attempt to put away the stresses that we allow to drag us down and try to be a good example of a “little Christ.”
My faith is strengthened when I think of what Christ gave up for me so that I can become part of His family. He did this with joy at the thought that we will all be together with Him. He surrounds me with brothers and sisters that help advance me along the road toward home.
Thank You Lord for giving up Your heavenly home for a time so that I can be with You for eternity. Help me to keep my eyes on You and stay on the path with joy! I desire Your strength to bring me home.
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“1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2 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 is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2 (KJV)
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I feel that since God has given me the gift of this platform, I must always tell you about my Jesus.
What is your relationship to the all-knowing God of the universe? Do you know Jesus? Do you know the peace that can come only from an intimate relationship with Him? You can know Him. Jesus Christ, God’s Son, born into human flesh, sinless, crucified and giving His life freely, buried, arisen on the third day, will come into your life and change the outcome of your eternity. You just have to be willing to believe and accept His truth.
Here is an excellent website that can give you additional information about making your decision for Jesus Christ! PeaceWithGod.net
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Restricted Vision, Unburdened Sight 