
Hebrews 12:1-2 says "Wherefore, seeing we also are compased about with such a great cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, ,and the sin that does so easily beset us, and run with patience the race that is set before us, 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.
When we are born again, Jesus is the Author and Finisher of our Faith. Our new spiritual life and walk begins and ends with Jesus! In essence, you receive a spiritual birth certificate. Why? Your name is written in the Lambs book of life! It also said:"Let us run with patience the race that is set before us". This is not a sprint. This is a marathon, if you will. This walk with God is a life-long journey. It's also not an easy walk in the park. But it will be a process. As long as we are living, we'll be a work in progress! God wants us to progress, not digress. And if you get caught and tripped by a hurdle in the race, get up!!! The race is far from over! If you have a set back, Repent and get ready for the COME BACK!!
Remember the story of the Turtle and the rabbit? The rabbit thought he was ok, and couldn't lose because his confidence was in his speed. So he took a nap and got comfortable. Woke up, and seen that the turtle was going to cross the finish line. The rabbit lost, because he was to comfortable and got complacent. The turtle was consistent, even though he was slow. God wants us to be and stay consistent, even when things don't go our way or seem like we're at a stand still place. Consistency is important in the spiritual sense. God didn't create no wimps or quiters. Why? Because greater is he that is in me and you, than he that is in the world! The passage also said , "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 trone of God". Jesus knew his calling and mission to save, and redeem fallen Humanity. When he was on his way to Calvary, to be nailed to the cross, he had you, me, and all humanity on his mind. Love nailed Jesus to that tree. Obedience until death. Spilled his precious blood to redeem sinful man, and accomplished his work on the cross because he knew millions like me and you would come to know him and experience the power of God's salvation through Jesus Christ alone. Jesus ran his race, and said "It is Finished"! At the cross! Now we have our own race to run. And just as runners in track and field have lanes (for a reason), so we also have our own lanes to stay in and "run with patience the race that is set before us"!
Blessings,
Pastor Barry Lipscomb Jr.
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