Is It So Hard?

by David Gibson

Does the Christian life at times seem more than you can bear? May these thoughts from Hebrews chapter 12 encourage you!

Others Have Overcome

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [the heroes of faith in chapter 11], 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 . . .” (Hebrews 12:1).

They endured. So can we.

Jesus Showed Us How to Endure

“Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted” (Hebrews 12:3).

Jesus suffered far more than we ever have or ever will. He endured. So can we.

Suffering Can Make Us Strong!

Our Father “disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness” (Hebrews 12:10).

Suffering can have a refining effect on us—if we let it (Romans 5:3-5; James 1:2-4; I Peter 1:6-7). So, how are we to deal with affliction? Let’s expect it, accept it, and not reject it. We need it more than we realize. Someday we’ll look back and see how much we’ve grown!

Just Think What We Have to Look Forward To!

“... let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus... 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).

Jesus endured because He knew something wonderful lay ahead. Focusing on the joy set before us helps make the painful present bearable.
Trials are temporary; joy is forever!