Serious athletes do everything they can to improve their performance. That's why many manufacturers design things like ultra-light shoes and swimwear that reduces drag.
What a great analogy for Hebrews 12:1: “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.”
Hindrances can be external and internal.
God wants us to throw off external hindrances like ungodly entertainment, materialistic pursuits, and bad relationships. These things entangle our spiritual muscles and slow us down.
He also wants us to clean out negative internal influences like bitterness, selfishness, and pride. These things sap our spiritual strength.
Today let’s ask God to help us get rid of anything that hinders us from running the race He has marked out for us so that we can one day say like Paul:
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" (2 Timothy 4:7).
And don't forget the promise in 2 Timothy 4:8!
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I like this analogy. It is amazing that athletes keep improving their performances. It is amazing how much a Christian can improve his performance through shedding the outward, worldly influences so he can focus his race on Jesus.
ReplyDeleteGod designed us to be better each and every day. Through the Holy Spirit he coaches and counsels us in his plan for our gifts he has given us. I pray that I keep my senses open to God's guidance through the Holy Spirit in my life. I pray this to for all fellow Christians. In his name, Amen.
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