Wednesday's Whisper

Hebrews 12:1-2

1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience 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 is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Good morning to you on this Wonderful Wednesday!

Picture this: a person stands at the starting line of a marathon, wearing an overcoat and rubber boots, and carrying a large, heavy backpack. Not the usual attire for a runner, right? Usually runners wear lightweight clothing and sturdy running shoes because this attire is less cumbersome. Bottom line, if you're a runner, don't carry weights!

The same rule follows for spiritual runners. If we desire to run this race with patience, the weights and sin have to be laid aside. Before following Hebrews 12, we need to obey 1 Peter 5:7 and cast all our cares upon the Lord. Our loads will be so much lighter if we simply let go of our cares, placing them in God's capable hands. Then, run, run and run some more until we reach our goal!

As we run, our focus must be on the One we are running for and toward - Jesus! He is the author and finisher so He alone knows how this race began and how it will finish. Focus on Jesus. Keep our eyes on Him, or we will begin to sink in the depths of life and its problems much like Peter began to sink when he took His eyes off Jesus as they walked on the water together.

For many years we have sung this song in church, and it's still so true today:

Turn your eyes upon Jesus

Look full in His wonderful face

And the things of earth will grow strangely dim

In the light of His glory and grace

Don't lose your focus, and don't carry weights - because soon and very soon, we're going to see our King! As we run with our eyes focused on the Lord, we can hear His sweet voice whisper, "You're gonna make it!"

Until tomorrow, Lord willing...........