Throwing off the hindrances

Pressing toward the goal

“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 our faith, 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.” Hebrews 12:1-2 

“Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.  (13)  Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead,  (14)  I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:12-14 

There is so much distraction in the world right now that it can be hard to remember where to go to find peace of mind. A million voices are vying for our attention; it’s hard to choose one to whom to respond.

To find peace, we must go to the One who is NOT the author of Chaos—Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace to Whom all peace belongs.

All those witnesses to God’s faithfulness who have gone on before us—are waiting, having finished their race. The Host of Heaven watches and cheers us on, along with Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

As we throw off all the things that can hinder us from wholehearted service to our King, let us remember that Jesus endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God, where He is ever making intercession for us.

After all, if Jesus is praying for us, how can we fail?