“I never had problems like these before.” Every new Christian has that thought cross his mind at one time of another. My response is that you were never such a threat to Satan’s plans as you are now. Where he used to have you in his camp, the devil now must assign resources to oppose your activities.

In Hebrews, the writer exhorts believers not to be distracted by the tactics of your enemy. Instead, “run with endurance the race that is set before [you].” (Hebrews 12:1) The entire previous chapter tells of many men and women of faith that ran the same course. They are our examples—“so great a cloud of witnesses.” As we consider their lives, their sacrifice (even their blood), we should be motivated to finish the race as they did, in full confidence of eternal life. The imagery is of a track meet. Runners today are wearing lighter clothing and shoes. Why? So that they can pick up that extra bit of speed that will make the difference at the finish line. We are to “lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us.” Is there anything in your life that hinders your effectiveness for Christ? Do you have sin charged to your account that is yet unconfessed? Are there sin habits that become handles for Satan to use you as a tool for his purpose in the body of Christ? The writer’s advice is the best for any runner in a race. Don’t look to see how the opponent is doing. You will lose ground every time. Instead, keep your eyes on the finish line, “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 12:2) Follow the counsel of Peter: “Rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.” (1 Peter 4:13) Stand firm!

Sin cera, Erik

Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.

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