WHO, ME?

American Standard Version Hebrews 12:1
Therefore let us also, seeing we are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset (attacks you from every side) us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

Oft times when reading this verse of scripture I focus on the first section: the cloud of witnesses. It has been suggested that these witnesses are the angels of GOD. Another thought is they are the saints who have died in the faith and are viewing the Christian community on earth.

Whatever the situation is there is somebody watching us, and because of this we are admonished to strip ourselves of two things. The first is characterized as weights.

We could copy baby Snooks of radio fame who always answered, “Why,” every time she was told to do something. “Go to bed; why? Drink your milk; why? “

When the scripture says to do, or not do something the only response that is acceptable is obedience.

The weight is that thing that keeps you from doing the perfect will of GOD. Weights seem to be custom made for each Individual, what affects one might have no effect on another.

Weights include; the love of money, a roving eye, an occasional untruth, or any thing that slows you down in your walk of righteousness.

Sin or perhaps sins would be more appropriate since one who allows sin in his life probably has problems with several things. Sin is the violation of the known will of GOD. Sin disrupts your fellowship with GOD.

You might say “I want to sin!” Of course you do otherwise you wouldn’t do it. The issue isn’t the want to, it is the counting the cost that matters.

The analogy of the race depicts how necessary it is to eliminate anything that would impede your running. The Christian life is likened unto a race. It isn’t a quick dash, and it is more than a marathon. It is a continual running until you join the cloud of witnesses.

With determination, set your goal for the long haul with no detours.

Run ye well, faithful one.
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