Dave's Diary

Daily Readings: Hebrews 12-13 and Psalm 16

In Hebrews 11, the author celebrated the faith of a long list of heroes and heroines. As chapter 12 begins, he exhorts his readers to realise that they are part of the same Family as these “witnesses”, who had stayed faithful despite the worst forms of trial and persecution. It should be no surprise that the Greek word used to describe them is the one from which we get our word “martyrs”. They had bravely lived and spoken for the Lord, regardless of the cost. They were an absolute inspiration!

He writes:

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, 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, ² fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy that was set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. ³ Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

These verses call us to be so inspired by the memory and example of these brave “witnesses” that we press on with perseverance in our own “race of faith”. The author seems to call us to imagine that these saints of days past are in the stands of our lives cheering us on. At the same time, he calls us to be even more inspired by Jesus and His courageous, self-sacrificial commitment to the will of God. So inspired, in fact, that we will never lose heart and become tired of living for His glory.

Life application: As a disciple of Jesus, no matter what challenge or trial may come across your path today, be inspired by the faithfulness of Jesus and of the brave disciples of previous generations. Draw strength from their example and rely on the same power they relied on – the Holy Spirit Who dwells within you.