In Hebrews 12:1-3 the writer is encouraging focus of the life of faith lived on purpose. He says,
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people; then you won’t become weary and give up.”
It’s easy to get sucked into distraction which seems innocent enough until you look around and find you used up all your time. That not so innocent strategy exists to throw us off course. The writer of Hebrews says to remember those who have gone before us. Be encouraged by those who have endured and stand as proof that you will accomplish all that God has called you to.
There is a race that we are running. There is a goal our life is to reach. The lighter the unnecessary weight we have, the better we can move. Casting off what is not necessary for the guarantee of winning the prize is vital. The prize that comes in Jesus is the only one we will care about when we stand before him.
Jesus is the champion, the one whose life modeled what ours should look like. So what did Jesus do to win the race? He kept his eyes on the prize, for the joy set before him. The Father sent Jesus on his behalf to restore his children. That was the joy that caused him to endure hostility, ridicule and death. Jesus said, “As the Father sent me so I send you.” We have a purpose in this life that requires our attention and effort. We must continually remember that what we do and don’t do matters.
“Run the race in such a way to win the price.” – Paul