In Good Company

Have you ever been worried and discouraged in your soul? Maybe you’re feeling that way today. Perhaps you’re discouraged or spiritually lethargic, and you need a jump start. You’re wondering how to get back on track.

In Hebrews 12, we read, “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” (verses 1–2 NKJV).

This chapter begins with the word, therefore. And what comes before Hebrews 12? Hebrews 11, of course, which has been called the Hall of Faith. It’s where we read of all the great men and women of God who persevered despite overwhelming circumstances and massive obstacles. They lived their lives by faith.

In light of Hebrews 11, since we’re “surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses,” let’s run this race with endurance. I’m not naturally an athletic person, but in this race, we all must be athletic, so to speak. We must all be very committed.

It’s also great to have an example to follow. The men and women of Hebrews 11 were amazing people. They opposed Pharaoh and passed through the Red Sea on dry land. They shouted down the walls of Jericho and shut the mouths of lions. And they called down fire and also walked through fire.

So the author of Hebrews is effectively saying, “Look, they did it! In light of that, you can do it, too.” We should run our race well, knowing we’re in good company.

Most importantly, we should run our race, looking to Jesus. Keep your eyes on Him, and that will keep you going in the race of life.