“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, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:1-2).
Though an epic challenge, a life of persevering faith in God is do-able. Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Rahab, and others serve as a host of reliable witnesses to this unchanging fact. Therefore, no generation–past, present, or future–will ever be exempted from God’s expectation to exercise faithful obedience to Him.
In light of this truth, any child of God who is wavering about how to live during the remainder of his/her days ought to take these immediate steps:
Act decisively. Get rid of every spiritual weight and hindrance you have. There is never an appropriate time to “falter between two opinions” (1 Kings 18:21). Today is the day to hear and obey God’s voice, not harden your heart (Hebrews 3:16, 4:7).
Run with great determination. The race of faith is not for quitters; no prizes are given to them. Because the race of faith is rarely a short sprint, endurance–the willpower to doggedly continue putting one foot in front of the other–is essential. Perseverance/endurance is an essential reason why Jesus achieved spiritual victory. He sits triumphantly at God’s right hand because of His spiritual grit and determination.
There are no shortcuts to the triumph and victory of faith.
