A Winning Strategy
Hebrews 12:1–3 NLT
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people; then you won’t become weary and give up.
WELCOME
Hebrews 12:5 NLT
And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as his children? He said, “My child, don’t make light of the Lord’s discipline, and don’t give up when he corrects you.”
Definition:
Like children or athletes, every believer needs discipline.
Hebrews 12:6–8 NLT
“For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child. As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father? If God doesn’t discipline you as he does all of his children, it means that you are illegitimate and are not really his children at all.”
Why discipline?
1. Validates we are
2. Proves He’s a
3. Demonstrates
4. Teaches us to become
5. Helps us
RESIST
Hebrews 12:14–15 NLT
Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord. Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many.
Definition: deep seeded sense of
The Result
Ephesians 4:31 NLT
Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior.