Hebrews 12:1-2
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
1. Remove all distractions and anything that is not of God – throw off everything that hinders you from growing in your relationship with God.
2. Perseverance – continually doing something regardless of how difficult it gets. The sanctification process can be difficult. As Holy Spirt continues to work in you to make you more like Christ, the old ways (sinful ways of the flesh) must die. This is not easy and requires work. You may do well for a period, but then out of nowhere the old ways of the flesh creep back in. You may want to beat yourself up, and even question if you are truly a Christian. Do not allow the enemy to steal the truth that the father has given you! – YOU ARE A NEW IN CHRIST! We must DAILY persevere as we continue to become more like Christ. Jesus is sets us free from sin and shame, he is the perfecter of our faith. Remember when you are weak, God’s strength is made perfect – in your moments of weakness lean into him instead of running from him! God wants us to lean into him during our weakest moments, it’s what makes him God of lives and brings him glory.
3. Going to the cross was not easy – it was painful physically, emotionally, and spiritually. It was a brutal death – but it brought Jesus joy because he looked past the current situation and saw the bigger picture. Whatever you are going through, look past the current situation, and see the bigger picture. Pray that God is glorified and honored in every situation of your life, and no matter how challenging it gets remember to suffer with joy just as Jesus did.
Today's Prayer:
"God remind me that no matter how difficult situations and circumstances get that you are in control. Remind me that no matter how many times I mess up, you are helping me to persevere through the daily process of sanctification. God help me to find joy in difficult situations, just as Jesus found joy in the cross and his brutal death. Help me to see the bigger picture in every situation - to bring you honor and glory! Thank you, God, for all that you are doing in and through me. You brought me back to life, I have been born again, and I am free!"
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