Living like a Champion
Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2. fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:1-2
The characteristic of all champions is endurance. Being able to make it to the end, being able to finish the race and stay refreshed all along the way.
Strategies to Stay Refreshed
Run…forgiven and unencumbered.
Helps from God that refresh you (Romans 8)
1. Clear conscience
“ For now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.” (1)
2. Life and peace
“If your sinful nature controls you mind, there is death. But if the Holy Spirit controls your mind, there is life and peace.” (6)
3. Help with weakness
“ And the Holy Spirit helps us in our distress.” (26)
4. Purpose
“ And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.” (28)
5. Confidence
“If God is for us, who can ever be against us. “ (31)
6. Security
“ Whether we are high above the sky or in the deepest ocean, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (39)
Run…God’s race for eternal purpose Hebrew 12:1
“And the good news of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the world, as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” Matthew 24:14
Run…stopping when needed to find Sabbath rest and to drink deeply beside still waters.
Psalm 23:1-3…”The Lord is my shepherd. I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.”
Run…counting the cost, but knowing the worth.
Hebrews 12: 2…”fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
Hope is expectation! And expectation will change your life!
J- Jesus
O- Only
Y- Ya’ll
