May 15, 2023
Joe Brockinton ’74
Retired
Hebrews 12:1-2 Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
On his way to fight Goliath, David stopped at the brook and picked up five smooth stones – even though he would only need one of them to put Goliath on the ground. Perhaps those five smooth stones represented the experiences that prepared him for his encounter with his giant. When we face giants, we also need to be prepared for the battle.
In Hebrews 12:1-2, the writer points out five “smooth stones” for us to consider:
“since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us…” You need a support team in this journey. You need some fans. Choose some people who will encourage you and challenge you to be your very best. Choosing the right people is essential to your preparation.
“let us also lay aside every encumbrance…” This is a time for action. Get rid of habits that will drag you down. Develop habits that will enhance your experience intellectually, spiritually, physically, emotionally, and socially. The habits you choose will make you or break you.
“let us also lay aside … the sin which so easily entangles us…” Find an accountability partner. All of us need someone we can trust and confide in, as well as, confess our sins to so that we can grow in our walk with Christ. Building accountability into your life will provide guardrails against sin.
“let us run with endurance the race that is set before us…” Following Jesus is not a sprint. It is a marathon. Be committed to a lifetime of obedience and service to the kingdom.
“fixing our eyes on Jesus the author and perfector of faith…” Focus on Jesus and His will for your life. Seek God and you will find Him.
What stones do you have in your pouch for the giants you will face?