Hebrews 12:1-2 – “Therefore, since we also have such a great cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let’s rid ourselves of every obstacle and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let’s run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking only at Jesus, the originator and perfecter of the faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
Hebrews is an encouraging, inspiring book to read no matter what kinds of distractions are drawing you away from your devotion to Christ. It reminds us that Jesus is better because He has done what is necessary to give us victory over our sin in this world and He guarantees eternal life in the next. No distraction compares.
The great cloud of witnesses is made up of those who have found God to be faithful in every circumstance, and worthy of devotion (Hebrews 11). Distractions come when we forget who we belong to, and what He did to purchase our redemption. This is why Jesus told us to celebrate communion often, so our eyes would be drawn away from all that diverts us and be re-centered on the One we worship. Make a deliberate decision to keep your eyes on Jesus, and Jesus alone.
Read: Psalm 123:2, Psalm 141:8, Psalm 25:15, Isaiah 51:1
2. Spend Time in Prayer and Reading God’s Word on a Consistent Basis
Psalm 119:9-11 – “How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Your word. With all my heart I have sought You; do not let me wander from Your commandments. I have treasured Your word in my heart, so that I may not sin against You.”
Philippians 4:6-7 – “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Time in God’s Word and consistent prayer are critical to our relationship with God. God speaks to us through His Word as the Holy Spirit enlightens our understanding. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 tells us “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.”
The Bible leads us to the right path, convicts us when we get off the path, tells us how to get back on the path, and shows us how to stay on the path. Honest, sincere prayer brings us into the presence of God (Hebrews 10:19-22) where we can confess our distractions, and “receive mercy and find grace to help at the time of our need” (Hebrews 4:16).
Read: Colossians 4:2, Acts 2:42, 1 Chronicles 28:9, Joshua 22:5, Joshua 1:8, Hebrews 4:12
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