From the Edges – Endurance – Morning Devotional.

From the Edges – Morning Devotions
Pastor Calvin Cook June 3, 2024
Endurance –
Hebrews 12:1–3 ESV -Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.

We are all going through something. Whether it be a health situation, economic conditions, relationships, finances, figuring out next steps, and so many other things that occupy our thinking time. Many times, we feel there is no way out. We continue to operate but most of the time we remain in a pit that we seem unable to climb out of.

In 2 Samuel 5 we read about David being surrounded by the wicked army of the Philistines. After appealing to the Lord for direction, the Lord gave David direction which placed the victory of the battle within his hands and provided a way out. Please note as you read these verses that it was because of listening to God’s direction and following the direction that a way was made. Listening to God become the hard part. Again, the thought of the many distractions of life comes into play. I mention this because of David’s faithfulness, he overcame many distractions.

After the battle and the victory in 2 Samuel 7 we see David coming before the Lord in thanksgiving. 2 Samuel 7 reflects David’s gratitude and recognition of God’s faithfulness even in challenging circumstances. Despite being cornered, David acknowledges God’s hand in his life and the promises made to him. For us today it teaches that regardless of what we are in the midst of that God through the leading of the Holy Spirit can and will make a way even when we feel trapped.

Here is what I am trying to do because of the daily battles I face. As Hebrews reminds us, because of the witness of the endurance of ancestors we should cling to that which is important and lay aside every weight. These weights, which are the concerns that I mentioned earlier and many more that we haven’t even designated as weights are what is controlling us and effecting our relationship with God. We must have the wherewithal to push through to endure, with our minds not only set on the prize at the end, but the best in the present while we run the race. We commonly refer to an athlete as having a good game, but what about our journey in faith, how is it viewed?

Be reminded of the endurance of Jesus through everything that has been done for you. Be reminded of the Holy Spirit working, moving, and sustaining your life through direction, council, and so much more. May the words we hear today move us forward.