From September 17, 2018 – September 23, 2018 we are praying and fasting 12 hours per day (6am – 6pm) only drinking water.
Day 3: September 19, 2018
Read: Hebrews 12:1
Memory verse: Hebrews 12:1 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,
The book of Hebrews was written to encourage the Jewish converts to Christianity who, because of pressure, problems and persecution, were tempted to leave salvation in Christ and return to Judaism. The author used Hebrews Chapter 11 to introduce the readers to what is known as The Hall of Faith. The Hall of Faith consisted of several Old Testament Biblical heroes who had faced similar, if not worse, challenges that the Jewish convert readers were facing, yet each of the heroes maintained their faith in God.
Hebrews 12:1 calls those Biblical heroes “a great cloud of witnesses”. Even though the spiritual heroes had all passed away, they were compared to spectators in an Olympic arena, cheering the saints on to let them know that it is possible to finish the race strong. The best way to run is unencumbered, without any weight or external and internal hindrances that could potentially hinder and even stop their progress. The best way for us to proceed to the life that God has for us is to let go of everything that could potentially hinder our progress. Always remember that what He has is better than anything we release; so we are not losing, we are actually gaining.
Pray today:
1. Thanking God for the examples He has provided in the Bible and in our daily lives who help encourage us when we may become discouraged or face challenges,
2. Thanking God that your life can be an example to others who may become discouraged or face challenges, and
3. For the discipline to identify, and obedience to release anything that may hinder you from faithfully fulfilling your God-given purpose.
After you read and pray throughout the day, be sure to take time to listen for God to respond. Keep a journal to record what you hear Him say.
Praise God! I Will finish the race strong and fulfill my God-given purpose!