Running the Race

In the first two verses of chapter 12, the author of Hebrews issues three encouragements to us in a crisp, descriptive manner how we should run our race on earth, ¹ 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. ² Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.  He starts each of these off with “Let us…”

1. Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.  He explains to the Christian that you cannot run the race effectively if you are carrying too much weight or constantly entangled while attempting to run.  So, there is a challenge here.  Identify those sins that are weighing you down and those sins that constantly entangle us.  Then, throw them off.  Get rid of them.  I recognize this is tough to do, however for us to run effectively we have to do this.  Hey, you might not be able to get this done without the help of other believers.  Become a part of a small group to help you whether it is a Life Group or a recovery group. The New Testament over and over again challenges us to not run the race alone. James 5:16 straightforwardly tells us to “confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.”
2. Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.  The race is not going to be easy so you will have to persevere.  James, the brother of Jesus, helps us out here in chapter 1:2-3, ² Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, ³ because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. ⁴ Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.  Recognize that you will have to persevere in patience on this run.   If you stay on course, you will become “mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
3. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. We must fix and keep our eyes on Jesus not others, not the world, not our problems but on Him.  Matthew 6:33 declares for us to “seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”  Fix your eyes on Him.

The Bible not only challenges us to run but gives us guidance how and what to expect.  Let’s not forget that we have God the Holy Spirit empowering us, guiding us and helping every step of the race.  Run the race to win.  Blessings!