“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
Life is tough, no doubt about that. The writer of Hebrews is reminding us that many of have gone before us – living out their faith even though they didn’t know how the promise would be kept. Many have lost their lives as a result of their testimony concerning Jesus. Yet it is not a message of fear it is a message of encouragement. Because we are surrounded by the faith of those who set the example of faith and gave their lives for the furtherance of the Kingdom of God we should continue in faith through the difficulties we face.
In Hebrews chapter 11 the writer takes us on a tour of the faith hall of fame and at the end he says: “These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised, since God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect” (Hebrews 11:39-10).
Today’s passage encourages us to persevere, to keep our eye on goal of Jesus. God’s plans for us are greater than anything we can plan for ourselves – yet the road is not easy. He will demand much of us – He will ask us to step into the unknown. He will ask us for sacrifice. Jesus was the ultimate leader - He will not expect of us anything He himself was not willing to do, nor will He leave us to do it alone.
So when faced with a life situation that threatens your faith - that causes your heart to grow faint, remember those who have gone before you – especially Jesus. Stop and close your eyes and with your heart look into the faces of: Noah, Abraham, Daniel, Esther, Mary, Jesus, Stephen and all the others that have led the way.
Can you see them? Can you hear them cheering you on? They’ve got you surrounded.
A prayer
Father, thank you for the witness of those who have gone before us. May we feel the presence of Your son and all the heroes of faith as we face the difficulties of this life. May we give our own witness to encourage those around us to keep the faith and stay in the race for Your kingdom. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
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