Lay It Aside

"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us" (Hebrews 12:1 NKJV).  

The Lord helps us lay aside every hindering weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us in our glorious race. It's significant to note that sin easily entangles us. Some actions and habits become addictive quickly, requiring no effort on our part. We often don't notice their hold until it has grown stronger and requires more power than expected to overcome.

The remedy is simple faith. It begins with the first step—not doing what we used to do-and allowing the Holy Spirit to empower us to take every opposition into subjection. As easily as sin started, it can stop when we let the Lord help us. The enemy would have us believe it's too difficult or beyond our ability, but the truth is, we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.

In a race, the most challenging moment is often the pressing-through point, when continuing feels impossible. Even though our spiritual "muscles" may burn with pain, we push through and find we can do it. With endurance, we press on toward the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus, overcoming every obstacle, from glory to glory!