Hebrews 12:1-2
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. 2  Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Running our own race requires a couple of things- both require us to see well!  We see people who have gone before us and paved the way for us to run.  We see the people around us who affirm and stand with us and help us in our walks with God.  And in light of what we see, we prepare ourselves.

We are instructed to cast off everything that keeps us from running the race- from walking with God.  Everything that hinders.  What hinders you from walking?

Are there issues in your character that hinder your walk?  Are there areas of your life that are undisciplined that hinder your walk?  Are the areas where you need faith?  Forgiveness?  Whatever hinders needs to be addressed so it does not hinder you any longer.

We deal with these by changing our course of action.  Stopping something or starting something.  This puts these things aside!

We are also instructed to cast off the sin that keeps us entangled.  Sin that gets its tentacles deep into our lives and pulls us off the course.  Sin entangles us by confusing our desires.  We are conflicted and lured away by the deceptiveness that sin will satisfy the longing of our soul.  But the desire is really a deep desire for God and the life He has- and this life is found only when we run the race Hes established for us.

We deal with sin by repentance!  We confess our sin, repent and receive His forgiveness for us.

The second thing we are told is to fix our eyes on Christ.  Look to Him, learn from Him, and follow Him.  We talked about the fact that we must discipline ourselves to see Him, and humble ourselves to follow!  Not bargaining or justifying, simply obeying!

And it is when we fix our eyes on Jesus that we discover what keeps us from running well.  We discover the distractions, but most importantly, we discover our sin.  For when we open ourselves to the fullness of His Light- the darkness that keeps us trapped is exposed.  And so this morning, we want to simply fix our eyes on Him.  Let Him fix His eyes on You to probe your heart and soul- to expose and bring healing.  And let us fix our eyes on Him- and follow.  Where ever He leads.  Whatever He asks  because the race He is calling you to run is the race Hes marked out for you that you might have life and have it to the fullest!

• Read Hebrews 12:1-2. What is keeping you from running your race well? Where do you find yourself entangled and how is this influencing the way you are living out your One Word?

• What is currently hindering your walk with God and pursuit of Him?

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