THE PRODUCT OF PERSEVERANCE
“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.” Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV
Perseverance always produces fruit—there’s never a time when it leads to nothing.
Why? Because perseverance is born from belief and a firm commitment to a goal or purpose. You can’t truly persevere in anything without first being convinced of its value—whether that pursuit is right or wrong. In our theme scripture, Paul encourages us in light of the goal to one day be told ‘well done good and faithful servant’; (1)we ought to lay down any weights that hinder us from running our race, (2) fix our eyes on Jesus because He alone has the power to strengthen you as your forerunner.
Child of God, take an honest inventory of your life and let the spirit guide you into identifying and surrendering whatever your ‘weights’ may be. As you do so, let Christ also bear the heavy burden of guilt, shame and condemnation for such is the manner of the enemy to keep you distracted and defeated. And finally, always hold fast to this truth: the same Christ who endured every form of opposition never grows weary or loses heart—and neither will you, if you stay anchored in Him.
Fix your gaze on Jesus and lean fully into His strength. Hallelujah!
Prayer: Father, I thank You for this blessing. I surrender my desires and concerns at Your feet, and I welcome the Spirit’s conviction to lead me into repentance and align me with Your truth. I receive Your invitation as one made righteous by grace, to the glory of your name. Amen!
CI.
RELATED RESOURCES
• Hebrews 12:22
• Matthew 25:23
