1 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, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.
Hebrews 12: 1,2a
“perseverance” – Greek “hupomone” – not a patience which sits down and accepts things but the patience which masters them.
“The Greek word for ‘looking’ is a much fuller word than we can find in the English language. It has a preposition in it which turns the look away from everything else. You are to look from all beside to Jesus. Fix not thy gaze upon the cloud of witnesses; they will hinder thee if they take away thine eye from Jesus. Look not on the weights and the besetting sin-these thou hast laid aside; look away from them. Do not even look upon the race-course, or the competitors, but look to Jesus and so start in the race.” —Charles Spurgeon, English Preacher
• When we
“Comparison is the thief of all good things!” —Craig Groeschel
What happens when we gaze on Jesus?
Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise…Then the God of peace will be with you.
Philippians 4:8b-c,9b
1 Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. 2 Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ.
Ephesians 5:1,2a
All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as Christ is pure.
1 John 3:3
Make allowance for each other’s faults and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.
Colossians 3:13 (NLT)
For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps.
1 Peter 2:21
44 But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! 45 In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:44,45a
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
Colossians 3:12
Why “gaze”?
…fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.
Hebrews 12:2
For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work among you will complete it by the day of Christ Jesus.
Philippians 1:6
• No matter your circumstances
•