Greetings to you
This series on Hebrews 12 is so replete with nourishment that we have eaten twice from the nougat and are still coming back for more.
Here’s today’s Holy Nougat™
Happy nibbling
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. Hebrews 12:1 NLT
Have you ever stopped to observe a baby who has discovered the joy of upright mobility?
You know, the infant creeps and then begins to “Lonie” (attempt to stand without assistance, ie lonie). Soon, it’s the grand discovery that travel on two feet gives better mileage than creeping on all fours.
And once that is mastered, the toddler keeps at it, falling a few times, but remaining focused. So it is with us. The Lord has purposed each of our lives from spiritual neonate to Lonie to toddler all the way through to our advanced spiritual development.
Like the toddler, we also need to keep our focus, continuing on the path as we gain strength and eventual confidence. The thing is, each of us has a prescribed path. And though they may be similar, the paths are actually different.
Enduring means that we are not deterred by the obstacles. That other’s progress does not prevent us from persevering through and pressing on.
Enduring means pacing ourselves, ensuring that we don’t lose strength, maintaining the pace and choosing to stay on course.
Enduring means consistency, getting back up time and again, regardless of the number of times we fall or faltering, just like the toddler.
But most of all, enduring means recognizing that our course has been determined by God; so we are not alone.
In short, we must
1. Shift our focus from self to God
2. Remember that we have our own cheering squad
3. Discard the stuff that trips us up
4. Adopt the attitude of a toddler … Keep at it
5. NOT give up
6. Run as if our life depends on it
7. Maintain our focus on Jesus Christ
Here’s to improved endurance. Shalom and salaam
