Hebrews 12

Daily Devotional from Hebrews 12--

Verses 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.

I used to think verse 1 was encouraging us to live a holy life because our public and private behaviors were being observed by witnesses in heaven. Like children who are at their best behaviors when their parents are looking, we might sin less if we know others are watching.

But now I don’t think this is the message at all.  In Hebrews 11 we are given many examples of heroes of the faith that lived and died waiting for and trusting the promises of God. It is these witnesses who are referred to in verse 1 of Ch 12. They are not witnesses because they are observing our behaviors; they are witnesses because they have testimonies to share with us, to encourage us to keep running the race - never giving up, keeping the faith, growing in spiritual maturity, and looking forward to the completion of God’s plan. They are to be our examples along with our greatest example, Jesus, who obeyed the Father and finished strong by enduring death on the cross for us.

So let’s follow their examples, living a holy life, trusting in God no matter what the circumstances.

Rick Bolesta