The author and finisher of our faith! (R) (24/5/2023)Hebrews 12:1-2 "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset [us], and let us run with patience 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 is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." - KJV
Drawing from the inspiration and example of those gone ahead, including Jesus, we are to recieve encouragement to put off the weights that pull us back, the sin that entangles. Then we can persevere in the race to the end. Many have fallen along the way for failing to persevere. The Jesus we look up to is familiar with suffering and the challenges we encounter on this race, having faced the toughest times Himself and overcame. He encourages us to look to Him.
He is the author and finisher of our faith. What confidence can we have that He will enable us finish what He started? Because He went through it all and overcame and is forever victoriously seated in heaven. Because He is true to His commitments and never lies. He never starts and ends on the way. He completes what He begins.
What’s our part in this? To look up to Him in trust. The circumstances may be tough, the battles so fierce, painful and at times feel uncertain how it will end. We may be tempted to give up. But cheer up child of God. He who began this work in you, by saving you, will bring it to a good end. He promised to be with us even in the fire, the valley and the mountain top, at good and bad times. Hold on in Him. We shall overcome and emerge victorious.
Philippians 1:6 "…being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
Shalom children of God.