Joel M Bradshaw

1Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.–Hebrews 12

Some thoughts about this famous passage as I sip my cup of coffee:

1. CLOUD OF WITNESSES. What do witnesses do? They testify. What will this Heavenly group have to say about you and your race? What testimony will they have about how seriously and faithfully you ran?
2. LET US THROW OFF. When I ran my 5K races, I didn’t wear flowing robes that would cause me to trip. In the same way, what is hindering you? What sin are you cherishing that needs to be submitted to God? What idol in your life do you defend and protect?
3. RACE MARKED OUT FOR US. The 5K race follows a certain course down certain streets. At no point could I deviate from that path, nor did I want to! You don’t mark out your race. Jesus does. The sovereign God has already marked it out for you. Run with assurance that no twist or turn is unknown by the God who planned your life. Nothing surprises God. Trust Him.
4. FIX OUR EYES ON JESUS. For my races, I had the finish line, water, and a chair on my mind. Our race has Jesus. I long to thank Jesus. And I have four of my six children who died as babies waiting for me in Heaven. Daddy wants to see them, too. But my focus is gratitude for Jesus.
5. DON’T GROW WEARY. Weariness is deeper and depressing. Tired is just tired. Weariness is giving up or wanting to quit. Christian, God’s joy is to be your strength. There is hope for depression. I say this as a biblical counselor who has journeyed with depression, myself. Get biblical help and share your story with someone. Look to the Bible for wonderful hope!–JMB