A cloud of witnesses
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. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people; then you won’t become weary and give up. Hebrews 12:1-3
Jesus told His disciples that in this world, they will have tribulation (John 16:33). The Christian life and ministry can cause a believer to become weary and give up. The text today provides an encouragement why Christians should not give up when life becomes difficult. The writer of Hebrews mentioned in Chapter 11 those faithful followers of Christ who endured in the midst of trials. Their victories can provide encouragement for they manifested what a life of faith was all about. As the text mentioned, “we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses” implies that there is a massive number of these exemplary servants and to be aware of this could become a source of encouragement for there are other believers who faced hardships just like us yet did not give up and were gloriously triumphant. The devil will tempt you to think that you are by yourself facing difficulties in life. Or he will insinuate that all the work you are doing are for nothing and no one notices. In whatever work God gave you and called you to do, the Word of God urges you “in his mercy, God has given us this new way, we never give up” (2 Corinthians 4:1). No matter how difficult life is and you noticed that your physical body is getting weak do not give up for “our spirits are being renewed every day” (2 Corinthians 4:16). Instead set aside all those things that could hinder you especially the besetting sin. Get rid of attitudes, thoughts, or any practices that could slow down and impede your Christian walk. We are exhorted to be strong and to not get weary for God provides the resources that will keep us on keeping on. “But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31). Let us keep our eyes on the goal, our Lord Jesus Christ, “the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.”
Blessings,
Noel De Guzman
www.my-wbc.com
