Throw Off the Sin That So Easily Entangles

"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. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." Hebrews 12:1-3

I love these verses and think of them often. Let's throw off EVERYTHING that hinders us and the sin that so easily entangles us. I picture in my mind the times that I've been jogging in a sweatshirt and get too hot and I just throw it off... may my addiction to overeating be like that (only I tend to pick the sweatshirt back up and tie it around my waist...okay, maybe it's not a good analogy!). But, if something is holding you back - if you feel that yoke around your neck, it's time that that bondage is broken in the name of Jesus! Be rid of it so that you can run with perseverance!


We have a race marked out for us. God knows our every path, and what do we need to do? Fix our eyes on Jesus! He is our finish line! How can you race if you don't know where the end is? But, if your eyes are ever on the end, you'll get there by the straightest means possible. 


When we think of all the suffering Jesus did on the cross, it's easier to "not grow weary and lose heart." Last night I was searching for the song "He's My Son" by Mark Schultz and saw some clips from the Passion movie...it gave me the strength and motivation I needed to get up early this morning and continue on this weight loss journey. For if He gave His life up for me, I can glorify Him with my body. I can press on in this race. And, with His help, I can get rid of the sin in my life that is holding me back from finishing this thing. To God be the glory!


Dear Jesus, thank You for Your sacrifice. May we never forget how much You've done for us. Please help us run this race...may our eyes always be fixed on You. And, we pray that You would break the chains of our bondage and the sin that is entangling us and keeping us from victory on this journey. We desire to glorify You with our bodies. Help us race! Help us run! May we know that we're working toward getting to Your loving arms at the finish line. In Jesus' name, AMEN!