Hebrews 12:1 states, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.” Who are the great cloud of witnesses in this verse? How do they help us? Why does it matter for my faith and family?
Hebrews 12:1 is a monumental theological statement about pursuing Jesus with all of our lives. This statement calls us to remove sin and earthly concerns that get in our way of pursuing Jesus. Yet, this entire idea is built upon the foundation of Hebrews chapter 11. The word “Therefore” connects us back to the previous chapter and calls us to look to Jesus with the same resolve of those who came before us.
But who are these “cloud of witnesses?”
Hebrews chapter 11 is often known as the great Hall of Faith. This famous chapter of the Bible presents not only the single greatest definition of faith presented in the Bible, but a slew of examples of what biblical faith looks like from all walks of life. Like the refrain of a masterful musical composition, the phrase “by faith” occurs over and over again. This one single statement reveals the incredible resolve of the believers that came before us.
Noah was faithful to build an ark although he could not see the coming rain. Abraham was faithful to go although he could not see the home that was being prepared. Sarah was faithful to trust in the provision of God though she could not see how God would provide in her old age.
But how does that help us?
Each person had to rest in the words of God before they could see the promises of God fulfilled.
The days are long. The years are short. If I am honest, I often struggle to see how God is working in the midst of my little family. But I am reminded to look back to those who came before me. They waited on God to fulfill his promise by faith.
Each little moment of faithfulness. Each little word of encouragement. Each little movement that I make that points my family to Jesus. Those moments are being used by God to accomplish his master plan in the life of my family. On the days when I struggle to see where God is working, I simply cling to the Word of God.
I am reminded, as Paul stated in 2 Corinthians 4:16-18,
“16 So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. 17 For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, 18 as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.”
Friends, cling with all your heart, soul, and strength, to the unwavering promises of God’s Word.
Article written by BJ Eason.
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Thank you for these messages. God bless you