SO EASY

SO EASY!

Heb 12:1-2

12 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

           Some of us carry a little bit of extra weight! The Greek word for “weight” used in verse one is ogkos and literally means “a mass or a bulging.” Yes, I can see it in the mirror! It is hard to shed and makes it difficult to climb stairs much less running a foot race! Of course, some weights are used for strength training. These weights are cast aside when the real competition starts so that the runner feels lighter and stronger. Either way, extra weight hinders our progress.

           We all have that one personal and pesky sin that seems to have no trouble defeating us. The word “easily” has the idea of “always standing around.” This one, frustrating sin has been forgiven and forgotten more times than we can remember but it always returns. It just stands around waiting for an opportunity to trip us up.

           Interestingly, the Greek word for “witnesses” is martus which is the foundation of our word martyr. The idea is that our Christian walk is being witnessed by those who have given their lives while serving Christ. It is an invisible but formidable audience. Moreover, we are being watched by others who would copy our deeds and habits.

           The transition from Romans chapter 7 to chapter 8 is an amazing turn around. In chapter 7 Paul was personally out of control. He could not keep from doing wrong and he found it hard to do right. Chapter 8 has a completely different focus. The reason is the verses below.

Rom 7:24-8:1

24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?

25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.

8 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

Dear Lord, help me to lay aside every weight and THE sin which seems to always be standing around. AMEN