Monday, November 15, 2021

Today’s Reading: Hebrews 12:1-3

Therefore since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us, and run with endurance the race that lies before us…

Hebrews 12:1

Reflection: Just as a professional athlete endures intense training to perfect their skill, we as Christians are also called to pursue after the things of God with this mindset. In order that we are well-trained to run the race of faith, God calls us to do the following in order to strengthen and train us in our faith.

First, we are called to remember the cloud of witnesses that have gone before us, men and women who have testified to the great things God has done. Their endurance reminds us of the hope of joy and triumph that awaits us with God. Second, we are called to lay aside the things which weigh us down. Honing in on our spiritual strength involves letting go of our sin and relinquishing the habits, mindsets, or distractions which keep us from strengthening our faith in God. Lastly and most importantly, we must keep our eyes on Jesus. He is the source of and reason behind our faith, as well as the perfecter and refiner of our faith. Because of the endurance with which He finished His work on the Cross, we have been given the ability to endure in faith for His Namesake.

Through the endurance of Jesus, we are able to endure the race of faith that lies before us. We are called and we are capable because of what God has done. Therefore, run the race of faith, and keep your eyes on Jesus!

Prayer: Father, thank You for Your faithfulness to grow me in faith in You. Thank You for drawing near to me through Your Son Jesus. I pray that You would please strengthen me, Father, that I would experience the complete joy and that is found in Your Presence. In Jesus’ Name I pray, AMEN.

Bible-in-a-Year Reading Plan (credit: Biblestudytools.com): Hebrews 12; Exodus 16:1-17:16; Proverbs 7:6-27