Daily Pep Talk

Let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.

Hebrews 12:1-2

I need this pep talk from God every day, don’t you? We are all running this race of life not knowing how long it will last, how many losses we will face, or if any earthly cheerleaders will ever show up by our side.

Life is full of unknowns, yet the clock is ticking and our choice for survival is faith in Christ, our true Life Coach. He has already won the eternal life “race” for us, so our goal really isn’t about winning eternal life but about living by faith.

I love His practical advice here in Hebrews 12. When I get dressed every morning, I literally cut off every weight that slows me down—those tags in my blouses that itch the back of my neck, those ribbons stitched into the shoulders to keep your clothes on the hanger but that always manage to hang out when you don’t notice. And pockets? I have most of them cut out and tightly sewn up because if I put anything in them, they literally bog me down with added weight to my thighs!

Jesus requires us to throw off anything—especially our sin—that slows us down from progressing in our faith. The very best way to live is to remain fixed on our constant, Jesus Christ. Life and faith are simpler if we are not holding on to anything that holds us back from Jesus. Focusing on Jesus in the race He sets for you and me is a game changer for sure!

Need a daily pep talk? Keep your eyes on Jesus and get rid of anything that distracts you from your primary focus, which is Jesus Himself!