Hebrews 12:1-2

When we go through a tough situation, the enemy wants us to feel isolated. He wants us to think we're the only one dealing with a situation like this. I want you to know that no matter what you have gone through or you're going through right now, you are not alone. The writer of Hebrews encourages us to remain strong and to reflect on the faith of those who have gone before us. Even though these men and women made mistakes and were far from perfect, chapter 11 applauds those who demonstrated great faith through their trials and tribulations. Find encouragement from this great cloud of witnesses, find support from believers around you, and turn your eyes toward Jesus--the founder and perfecter of our faith!

PASSAGE: Hebrews 12:1-2 - "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God."

PAUSE: The writer of Hebrews wrote to a church that was persecuted and suffered tremendously. He encouraged them to stay on course and to finish the race. He told them to fix their eyes on Jesus, who is the author and perfecter of our faith! Jesus wants our faith to grow as we experience storms. 

PRAYER: Father, forgive me for taking my eyes off Jesus. Just like those heroes of the faith, help me to put my faith in You, help me to look to You for strength.