Vertical Conversations Published 3/13/20 Read Hebrews 12:1-2 "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God." Reflect How do we run with endurance? Dr. Henrietta C. Mears was a brilliant scholar who wasn't known for mincing words. When it came to our most important relationship--connecting intimately with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ--she had a way of cutting through all the wordy theologies and complicated doctrines, and she got right to the heart of what we must do: "If we are going to know the Bible, we must give time to it and arrange for it. We must adjust our lives so that time is made. Unless we do, we shall never come into any worthy knowledge of the Word."[1] Years ago, I determined to stop making excuses and to start making time. The more I grow in my journey, the more sensitive I become to the challenging days we live in. I feel an urgency to keep my relationship with Jesus on solid footing. Now more than ever we all need to hear from God and draw closer to Him. Lukewarm spirituality just doesn't cut it. Actually, lukewarm and spiritual can't possibly go together--they're like oil and water. Christ-followers are either on the path with their Savior, or they've left the journey altogether. (There's no in-between.) And only those "who know their God will be strong and do exploits for Him" (Daniel 11:32b KJV). The Bible is the key to get us growing each day ... yet engaging it is anything but easy. When I first launched into the Scriptures, I quickly became aware that the Enemy himself was using any means he could find to discourage me and to block my efforts (John 8:44, Revelation 12:10). He tried everything from tripping me up with time-wasters (TV, movies, frivolous shopping) to negative emotions (fear, worry, insecurities). He'd even pull up old wounds and past sins, causing me to question my ability to follow Christ. The key? As today's passage tells us, run with endurance. God runs the race with us, encouraging us every step of the way. Pray Lord, help me to be in your Word daily. Help me to run with endurance. Amen. [1] Dr. Henrietta C. Mears, What the Bible Is All About (Ventura, Calif.: Regal © 1998), 21 We look forward to your comments, questions, and prayers in these devotionals! If you want to share this Daily Devotional with friends and family, here is the link: https://bttb.org/your-daily-forward-devotional
Jane - I love it how God sends us the reminders we need at just the right time!
Recognizing the fact & being accountable is the beginning of a turn around !! CONGRADULATIONS!!
Me too! I have those same issues and thoughts as well. Thank you for dharing
Funnily enough I write to a friend yesterday "I'm not running the race very well just now".Thank you
Thanks for the encouragement with this article. I too have these distractions, and sometimes I struggle in spending time in the Word. Thanks be to God, He's now helping me in being more intentional in seeking to know Him and spending time in His presence. I am reassured and confident that what He did for the forerunners of Hebrews, He'll do for me and all those who believe, have faith, and trust Him. He's the Author and Finisher of our lives, and He'll never leave or forsake us. We have this blessed assurance!
I too have found those distractions trying to keep me out of the word.
That is true Jesus is the reason to live
Thank you for this lesson I too have the distractions of fears and worries insecurities from my past that rise up with my relationships with people now thank you God bless
Since we have these witnesses cheering us on toward to the finish line. Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith what a great comfort for us he is running beside us.