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Spiritual Stamina For Striving Against Sin

June 29, 2014 Speaker: Ken Ramey Series: Holy Habits

Passage: Hebrews 12:1–4

Sunday Service

Hebrews 12:1-4

In this passage, the writer of Hebrews acts like a spiritual coach who provides us with FOUR STRATEGIES to strengthen and sustain our spiritual stamina in our ongoing struggle against sin.

1. REMEMBER THOSE WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE YOU (v. 1a)
Paul wants us to think back to all the people who ran the race and won. These people are the examples to us - they have all run the race in faith and it was faith that enabled them to finish strong. We must look to their examples for encouragement. Two practical ways to do this is to read the Old Testament (Romans 15:4) and read biographies of the great Christian men and women of the past.

2. REMOVE ANYTHING THAT SLOWS YOU DOWN (v. 1b)
Some things that encumber us or slow down our spiritual growth are not necessarily sin. Nevertheless, these encumbrances can hinder our progress toward becoming like Christ. Some hobbies, habits, unhealthy relationships, or even secular music can be sources of encumbrance. Serious athletes make the choice between what is good and what is best (1 Cor 6:12).
We should also lay aside any sin that binds us (Ephesians 4:22). This involves discernment of sin and breaking the bad habits related to that sin and forming new habits to replace them.

3. RIVET YOUR ATTENTION ON JESUS CHRIST (v. 2)
If a runner really wants to win a race, he must maintain his focus on the finish line. In the same way, if we want to win the prize, we must fix our eyes (i.e., maintain our focus) on Jesus. We must not let the things of the world divert our focus from Jesus Christ, for He alone is the author and perfector of our faith. We should endure for the joy that awaits us when we finish the race. For those who finish the race, Jesus Christ will greet with the words “Well done good and faithful servant.”

4. REMAIN IN THE RACE NO MATTER WHAT (v. 3)
“Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us” means to treat the Christian life as a long-distance race rather than a sprint. We must consider Jesus Christ and His grueling race when we become discouraged. Moreover, our heavenly Father is at our side and He is gracious and merciful to help us finish the race. This should motivate and inspire us no matter what the challenge or situation we find ourselves in (Hebrews 2:18, 4:16).

Draw near with confidence to the throne of grace and ask God to come to your aid and help you in your ongoing struggle against sin. Pray the He would be gracious to grant you spiritual stamina to sustain you during the life-long process of sanctification.

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