LAYING ASIDE EVERY WEIGHT AND SIN THAT CLINGS, LOOKING TO JESUS

Hebrews 12:1-2  

“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, and founder and perfecter of our faith . . .” (v1, 2 ESV)  

These first two verses in Hebrews 12 tell us so much that we need to pay attention to. First, we are reminded that others are witnesses of what we do in our lives. Regardless of who is inferred in the verse, it tells us others are watching. Why? Some would try to claim it’s pointless and doesn’t work yet inwardly desire and need to know that what they see in us as disciples of Jesus is REAL! They need to know it’s not just for show but that the blood of Jesus and a personal relationship with Him can and does change the person.  

Then we note there are things that weigh us down and cling to us that need to be set aside.  I was reminded here of the challenges I’ve had in trying to dispose of those little pieces of plastic security wrap being put on caps and lids of containers these days. Once you break the seal and remove the plastic, trying to remove it from your hand can be a real chore. It clings to the hand or fingers and just won’t let go no matter how you may try to shake it off or pull it from the fingers, it ends up on another hand or a finger and just continues to cling. This is like the sin that wants to cling to our hearts.  

But Jesus has made provisions for that, and through the Holy Spirit He can cleanse our hearts, so sin is eradicated and no longer clings. As we are told to endure as we run the race, we are to look to Jesus. As in any race, there is a prize and while those who come in first may receive a prize, any who finish have the prize of knowing they accomplished what they set out to do. Paul said in, 2 Timothy 4:7-8, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” All who do the same will enjoy the prize of eternal life with Him. Hallelujah!  

We too need to fight the good fight and finish the race, laying aside every weight that holds us down and sin that clings, looking to Jesus. If we do, eternal life with Him is the prize we will one day receive. Hallelujah! Amen! 

Rev. Douglas K. Johnson