HEBREWS 12:1

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

TO PONDER

Life isn't going to be easy because you don’t belong to this world. When you walk with Jesus Christ you are out of step with the world. The world doesn't like you because you cause them to feel shame and guilt. They are offended. Their response is that of striking out, of persecuting. Christ is our example and look what they did to Him. 

In running the race, the prize of winning is the incentive, the glory that comes to the victor, the joy of victory. In Christ's case, it was the joy of being able to bring to us victory over sin, the joy of being able to redeem us from our lost condition. For us, the joy is knowing I'm doing what God wants me to do. My life is in harmony with the eternal plan of God. 

PRAYER

Lord Jesus, please help me to put aside those things that pull me off course and distract me from following you. Help me to endure the hardship and worry of this life, knowing the reward that awaits me in eternity with you. 

Today's devotion written by Francis Leung, LifeWay Epping