Shedding Weight
Shedding Weight
Since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us. Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us. (Heb. 12:1)
Every Weight Must Go
Hebrews 12:1 is not the only place in the New Testament that likens the Christian life to a race. “Don’t you know that the runners in a stadium all race, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way to win the prize” (1 Cor. 9:24). And in 2 Timothy 4:7, Paul says, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” The race is on, guys.
If you’ve ever watched the Boston Marathon or the Tour de France, you notice that the guys out front are pretty lean and mean. They’re not carrying around any extra pounds or gear. It’s all about going as fast as possible, and anything that gets in the way of the goal must go. You don’t just luck out and win a race. You prepare well and then stay laser focused throughout.
Brutal Honesty Required
It’s usually easier to recognize the sins that slow us down than to recognize some of the other “weights” that prevent us from running our best. That’s because these weights usually aren’t inherently sinful; they’re just not particularly helpful. They tend to be diversions or distractions that, when kept within proper limits, can serve as helpful rest breaks. The problem is, we often have trouble disciplining ourselves to get back on track. Do you need to shed some weight?
Bottom Line
Running the race well requires intentionality and focus. Be honest with yourself. Are there some things in your life that need to go?