Hebrews 12:1-3
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, fixing 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. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3 (NIV)
Jesus was surrounded by many who did not accept his ways. This ‘great cloud of witnesses’ certainly includes me and you plus all our Christian friends. The sinners, in Jesus’s time, needed assurance that following this man was the right thing to do. Even today many years removed from Jesus’s interaction with the people, we must work hard to accept the tenets of Christianity. But Christ was faced with many people like us, and he did not let that deter Him. He worked with people showing them the way to a forever life. He was the perfecter of faith. How can we ‘lose heart’ on this difficult road, when Christ traversed this road and ended up on the cross and sacrificed his worldly life to save ours. It may be discouraging to follow the road of Christianity. Think of all the sacrifices Jesus made while on the road to his death. We still make mistakes on this road but if we believe in Christ and his ways, we can stay with Him and enter His heavenly home.
Questions for Reflection:
- Where do you think you are in this race? Do you think you are gaining in your understanding of Christ and what it takes to be a Christian?
- “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). How do you think this statement from John squares with our daily devotion for today?
Prayer:
Dear Lord, please help us focus on ourselves. We need to do the right things to become a Christian. We must BELIEVE in Christ even though we knowingly make mistakes. Belief is the key so help me maintain that belief as I go through this worldly life! In Jesus name I pray! Amen!
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