“Therefore, 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. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” Hebrews 12:1-3
The Bible is filled with power-packed passages, and these verses from Hebrews 12 are a prime example. Many truths and nuggets of wisdom can be found in this passage, but for today let’s focus on what we see that can help us persevere in demanding or tough times.
As we try to persevere, each in our own situations, let’s keep these things in mind so we won’t “grow weary and lose heart”:
*Let’s remember the cloud of witnesses. The witnesses these verses refer to are the heroes of faith mentioned in chapter 11—people who lived by faith in the midst of great hindrances and challenges. But many other witnesses have joined that group since these verses were penned, and we personally know many of them. Don’t you think our own loved ones and heroes stand among the witnesses now? I think they surely must watch over us and stand in support of us, cheering us on. Let’s remember them and draw strength from their presence.
*Let’s guard against hindrances. As we persevere in our faith or in a difficult task or situation, let’s be alert to things that might hinder us from completing the races we’re running. What might derail you? What might derail me? Let’s throw those things off as God’s Word instructs us to.
*Let’s run the race marked out for us—not the race intended for someone else. We each have different strengths and weaknesses. God knows them well. He designed us and has equipped us to run our own races. We stand a much better chance of persevering and gaining victory if we stay in the lanes God sets before us.
*Let’s fix our eyes on Jesus and remember what he endured. Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith—the One who knows everything we’re going through and can empower us to persevere—will help us and bless us and comfort us as no one else can. He will inspire us. As we remember all he endured to gain the victory over sin and death for all of us, we’ll gain the strength and resolve needed to stand strong and persevere through all our challenges.
So next time we feel like giving up, let’s remember this power-packed passage from Hebrews. Let’s not lose heart.
Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you.” 1 Corinthians 15:58
*What’s your best tip for persevering in tough times?
*Flickr photo by Phil Roeder, Creative Commons License
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