READ Hebrews 12

 Hebrews 12:1-2, “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, 2Looking 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.”

 The first two verses of chapter 12 apply the principles of faith presented in chapter 11. The vast multitude of saints described as heroes of faith were witnesses to the first-century Jewish believers who may have been wondering whether or not they could finish the course which they began when they confessed Jesus as their Messiah. Some of them might have been wondering whether or not their confession was worth all the trouble it was causing them. 

 The testimony of the witnesses from chapter 11 assures all believers that it is possible to be justified by faith, gain a reputation for righteous living, endure suffering and death without seeing the promise completely fulfilled, and accomplish great things for God.  Since they did it, all believers can do it. 

For the race of life, believers are to trim down, that is, get rid of the sin of unbelief which will impede their progress.  Forsaking all other impediments to faith, they are to run “with patience,” i.e., “endurance”.  They are to finish what they have begun.

Believers need to not look back, but rather fix their gaze upon Christ.  He brings faith to fruition. He is the author and finisher of our faith.  He endured the agony and suffering of crucifixion and discounted the shamefulness of a criminal execution because He set His gaze on the joys of the resurrection and His eternal rule at God’s side.

Let’s keep on keeping on for the cause of Christ!

Your Friend and HIS

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  How have you been encouraged by others who have navigated by faith through troubled waters?

2.  The ultimate source of our endurance is Christ.  What is it about His life, His death, and His resurrection that should encourage you?

3.  What in your life needs to be laid aside to enhance your walk with God?

4.  How does Galatians 6:9 encourage us in keeping on?