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Hebrew 12:1-11 NKJV
The Race of Faith
12 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, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of ourfaith, 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.
The Discipline of God
3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls. 4 You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin. 5 And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons:
“My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord,
Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him;
6 For whom the Lord loves He chastens,
And scourges every son whom He receives.”
7 If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? 8 But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons. 9 Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live? 10 For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but He for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness. 11 Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
Pastor Brandon Starnes
Hebrews 12:1-11
This passage emphasizes the importance of perseverance in our spiritual journey, encouraging believers to shed burdens and sin while focusing on Jesus, who exemplifies endurance through suffering. The passage begins by urging us to "lay aside every weight" and sin that ensnares us, reminding us that we are surrounded by a "great cloud of witnesses" who inspire us to run the race of faith with endurance. The author of Hebrews emphasizes that trials and divine discipline are necessary for spiritual growth. God's discipline is intended for our benefit. Ultimately, while discipline may be painful, it yields the "peaceable fruit of righteousness" for those trained by it. The message encourages us to embrace God's discipline, seek growth through grace, and keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the goal of our faith, as we navigate life's challenges.