RUN YOUR RACE

In high school, I was a fairly good track runner. My races included the 4×100, the 4×440, and the 400 meters. I must admit I was quite skilled when I stayed focused. I always had problems staying focused. I would often come out of the blocks like a bullet, in the lead, until I began to look back to see where the other runners were. Without fail, every time I did this, the other runners would overtake me, and I would slip from 1st to 3rd or 4th. My coach would say to me,” You’ve got to lose the fear and stay focused, you can’t look back.”  

**Hebrews 12:1-2 (NKJV)**:  

“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,  looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

This passage from Hebrews serves as a powerful exhortation for believers to persevere in their faith. The imagery of a race is prevalent throughout the New Testament, emphasizing the need for endurance and focus.

1. “Surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses.” This refers to the faithful individuals mentioned in the previous chapter (Hebrews 11) who demonstrated tremendous faith in God. Their lives serve as examples for us, encouraging us to keep going even when we face challenges. We are not alone in our struggles; the stories of those who went before us stand as testimony that faith can overcome adversity.

2. Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us: To run a race well, one must be unencumbered. Just as an athlete sheds excess weight to enhance performance, Christians are called to rid themselves of distractions and sins that hinder their spiritual walk. Identifying and addressing these weights is essential for a productive faith journey.

3. Run with endurance the race set before us.  The Christian life is described as a race requiring perseverance. It’s not a sprint; it’s a long-distance run that requires stamina, focus, and commitment. Endurance means we will face trials, but through determination, we can keep pressing forward.

4. Looking unto Jesus: Jesus is the ultimate example and source of our faith. By fixing our eyes on Him, we gain strength and clarity for the path ahead. He not only initiated our faith but also perfected it, guiding us through every season of life.

5. “For the joy that was set before Him endured the cross”: Jesus faced unimaginable suffering, yet He endured it because of the joy of redeeming humanity. His focus on the ultimate goal—the restoration of our relationship with God—motivated Him. This teaches us that our trials can also have redemptive purposes when viewed through the lens of God’s bigger plan.

6. Despising the shame: Jesus did not allow the shame associated with the cross to deter Him from His mission. This encourages believers to remain steadfast, even when facing societal pressures or personal challenges.

7. “Sat down at the right hand of the throne of God”: This signifies His finished work and authority. Christ’s position in heaven assures us that He is in control and that our perseverance has eternal significance.

In summary, Hebrews 12:1-2 calls us to recognize the great legacy of faith that surrounds us, to shed the weights of sin and distraction, to pursue our spiritual race with endurance, and to keep our eyes fixed firmly on Jesus. By doing so, we honor His sacrifice and find the strength to overcome challenges in our own lives and win the race.

Tips on running your race: 

1. Run with all your heart. (be determined)

2. Stay in your lane (don’t judge or compare yourself to others. Mind your business).

3. Don’t look back. 

4. Keep your eye on the prize. (eternity with Jesus).

1 Corinthians 9:24 (NKJV) states, “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.” This verse encourages us to strive for excellence and to pursue our goals with determination. 

Peace and Love,

—Pastor Dwayne