This week, in the midst of our first winter storm, I decided to walk the dog in 20 degree weather with snow blowing at 25mph. “I can do this!” I said. But a half mile into the wind, I started to grow weary and lose heart. I began to map out a route home and look for shortcuts. I was no longer committed to the journey and wished I had never started it. It was only by my furry partner’s pull and determination that we completed the journey.
The enemy of endurance in our ministry is that we can grow weary and lose heart. I know so many followers of Christ who testify that they are tired and overwhelmed. Life in this culture produces an abundance of weary believers. In the frustration of being weary, it becomes easy to lose heart. How do we deal with my weariness? How do I keep from losing heart? How do I stay passionate and energetic? How can I maintain enthusiasm with my calling?
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. – Hebrews 12:1-3
Be inspired by those who have gone before. We are surrounded by a great number of witnesses. Invest some time in those who have laid the foundations for you, our Senior saints. Read the biography of someone who endured through much for the cause of Christ. Take some devotional time with writing of those who have finished the race well. Lean on the inspiration of the experienced.
Lay aside the sin that easily trips you up. There are things that have historically been your Achilles heel. Don’t try to run the race in the bondage of your familiar sin. You may need to devote some serious discipline to wage war on that which drains your soul. Look for those things that are hindrances and give some attention to casting them aside.
Do not try to carry on and endure on your own. Fix your eyes on Jesus and He will help you endure. Don’t run to get the Savior. Run with the Savior and allow Him to be your endurance and your inspiration. The key to finishing well with passion and energy is your connection with Christ.
Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe – Hebrews 12:28
Don’t be confused by the current circumstances you find yourself in. You are on solid ground. You are part of an unshakable kingdom. You are anchored to the rock that cannot be moved. So, press on with endurance and heart, thankful for the partnership that enables you through weary days.