Lay It Aside

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 looking 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. ~ Hebrews 12:1-2

Running with endurance is a difficult task by itself. But when we are weighed down with sin and other burdens of life, it becomes even harder. We know we must lay these weights aside, but it can be hard to put into practice.

What can we lay aside? Here is a short list to start:

My stubborn insistence on having my own way

“But my people did not listen to my voice; Israel would not submit to me. So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts, to follow their own counsels. ~ Psalm 81:11-12

My thirst for other’s approval

For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ. ~ Galatians 1:10

My selfish inclinations

Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. ~ Philippians 2:3-4

My lingering guilt, even knowing God has forgiven me

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. ~ Romans 8:1

My crippling worry and anxiety

do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. ~ Philippians 4:6

My tongue’s sharp edge

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. ~ Ephesians 4:29

Are you weary of running this race? Does your load feel heavy? Are you dragging too much along with you?

Lay it aside today, and don’t pick it back up again.

Photo by Pavitra Baxi on Unsplash