Run in Such a WaySample

Throw Off Extra "Stuff"

Marathon runners train to last. They wear light clothes and some even run barefoot to get accustomed to the terrain. It is important to do so because it helps with keeping a certain speed to last. It helps produce endurance.

The writer of Hebrews focuses on this concept of running "light" when he says in chapter 12, verse 1, "let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles."  He is reminding us that there are things that can get in the way of our spiritual development and growth. Sin can get us tangled up and cause us to lose our way. Ultimately, its purpose is to separate us from a healthy relationship with God.

I'm reminded of a time my wife and I were traveling. We decided to check our bags curbside. I placed one of our bags on the scale and it registered, "52 pounds". The representative said, "Your bag is in excess. That will cost you an extra $150." I looked at my wife and we both grabbed the smaller bag we had and proceeded to take some items from the overweight bag, to put into the other bag. Then it hit me. When we are headed to a greater destination with extra baggage, it is GOING TO COST US!

There are unnecessary items we may be carrying around that can slow us down. Things like unforgiveness, anger, regret, guilt, shame and so many others; they can easily tangle us up.  Let us then, throw off all the extra "stuff."

Challenge: Identify some of the things that may easily entangle you. How are you combating or “throwing off” their power over your life?