Read Hebrews 12:1-3 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 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
All of us face adversity in the inevitable occurrences of painful, difficult, and confusing circumstances. How should we respond? Give up and throw in the towel, or attempt to fix our problems the best way we can? Neither of these answers is correct. If we were to ask God what response is acceptable to Him - based on His Word, He would call us to be like Jesus and endure.
Endure comes from the Greek word Hupomeno. Hupo translates “to bear up under a weight or a burden.” Meno means “to continue or remain.” To continue to bear up under the weight of difficulties does not give the impression of running away or changing circumstances. It paints a picture of staying the course in complete submission, and obedience to Jesus.
Second Timothy 2:3 sets the standard for believers in Jesus, exhorting us to endure “suffering as a good soldier.” How does God expect us to persevere through these circumstances? By looking to Jesus. His life is the perfect example of endurance.
Hebrews 12:1-2 gives us two directives for enduring trails. The first is to “lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely.” Every runner takes off weighty articles of clothing before running a race. As Christians, we too must remove our weighty desires, distractions, and goals - and our sin.
Do you struggle with pride, covetousness, or unbelief? Whatever your weight, whatever your sin, throw it off so you will equipped to endure in the race we call the Christian life.
Second, our focus needs to be on Jesus. He’s already faced unspeakable trails and He knows know to hupomeno. Jesus is the best focus we can have! Lay aside every sin and weight, and set your eyes on Him. Whatever the adversity, He will help you to endure.
-Shelli Ross-
Responding - What adversity is the Lord calling me to endure?
Following - What’s weighing you down? Give it to God.
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