August 21, 2020 – Hebrews 12:1-2

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrew 12:1-2.

We are running a race we will win through the strength of Jesus. To win, we lay aside the weight of guilt of sin. We are never run alone, for those who ran the race of faith before us, cheer us on to victory.  

We keep our eyes on Jesus who endured the cross and the shame.  He is the founder and perfecter of our faith. He sits on the right hand of God in Heaven.  Through His teaching and discipline, He trains us to receive the prize of eternal life.

Dear Father in Heaven, strengthen us and keep us in your love in this race for faith in You.  Encourage us with the the lives of the faithful who have gone before us. Make us teachable to love and be your sons in Jesus.  I pray in the name of Jesus, Amen.

I will sing praise to the name of the Lord, the Most High.  Psalm 7:17b.

Consider Him who endured from sinners such hostility against Himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.  In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by Him. For the Lord disciplines the one He loves and chastises every son whom He receives.” Hebrews 12:3-6.