Day 27 — Run the Race

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

— Hebrews 12:1–2 (BSB)

Have you ever run a long race? At first you feel great. But partway through, your legs start to burn, your lungs ache and you want to stop. The finish line seems so far away!

The Bible says following Jesus is like running a long race. Not a quick sprint, but a marathon that lasts your whole life. And Hebrews gives us advice for running it well.

Remember who’s cheering. “We are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses.” The chapter right before this one lists heroes of faith: Abraham, Moses, Joseph, David, Rahab and many more. These are people who ran the race before us and finished. It’s like they’re in the stands of a stadium, cheering us on! Think of everyone you’ve met in the Rooted books: Samuel, Daniel, Esther, Joseph, Peter and Paul. They all show us that it can be done.

Throw off what slows you down. “Let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles.” Imagine trying to run a race wearing a heavy backpack and a long coat that tangles around your legs. You’d trip! Some things slow us down in following Jesus. Sins, like lying or selfishness, trip us up. But other things might not even be sins. They’re just weights: habits or distractions that pull us away from God. A good runner gets rid of anything that slows them down.

Keep going. “Let us run with endurance.” Endurance means keeping going, even when it’s hard. Don’t give up!

Keep your eyes on Jesus. “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus.” Runners look toward the finish line, not at the ground or at the other runners. Jesus is our finish line and our example. He ran His race all the way to the cross, “for the joy set before Him.” He knew the joy on the other side was worth it.

When you’re tired, discouraged or tempted to quit, look to Jesus. He finished His race, and He’ll help you finish yours.

Think about it: What’s something that “slows you down” in following Jesus? What would it look like to throw it off?

Try this: Go for a run or a walk today. As you do, think about the race of faith, and pray for strength to keep running.

Dear Jesus, help me run the race of faith with endurance. Help me throw off anything that slows me down. When I’m tired, help me keep my eyes on You. Thank You for finishing Your race for me. In Your name, Amen.