“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.” Hebrews 12:1

“This is a marathon, not a sprint” is often an encouragement to remind you that the task before you may take longer than you thought. When we lead groups on longer hikes, we encourage them to pace themselves and persevere to the end.

The Hebrews writer reminds us that in what we might call “the race of life,” we are not alone. We have a “great cloud of witnesses” who have gone before us whose faith spurs us on. Our organization’s experienced guides share wisdom and give encouragement to help every hiker make it to the finish. On longer hikes, we move with light day packs, carrying only what is necessary. Verse 1 tells us to throw off anything that may slow us down or be a hindrance to following Jesus. This can be any distraction that doesn’t point us to Christ.

Jesus accomplished His task on earth for the “joy that was set before him” (v. 2): you! We also look to Christ for our joy and for everlasting life with Him. At the end of our race, we will be overjoyed to hear Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant!”

Insight: Are you distracted in your spiritual race? Ask God to show you what may need to be removed so you can fix your eyes on Him.