“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.” (Hebrews 12:1, NLT)
Home-field advantage can mean everything in sports. Teams who play at “home” often have a far better record than those on the road. When a team has fans cheering them on, they can often outplay their ability.
The Bible says that you too have an audience cheering you on. Hebrews 12:1 says, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us” (NLT).
Nothing you do is private. You have an audience. Heaven is watching. But that’s not meant to freak you out. It should encourage you — because it means you have a cheering section. The Bible says that everyone in heaven is cheering you on.
You probably realize that God knows everything. The Bible says, “The eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth” (2 Chronicles 16:9, KJV). The Lord doesn’t miss a thing. He knows your ups and your downs, every thought you have, every concern, every victory — everything.
But you’re also surrounded by “a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith.” Moses is watching you. Abraham is watching you. Every believer who has ever lived is in the stands watching you live out your faith.
And they’re cheering you on. When you’re scared, they’re rooting for you to be courageous. When you want to give up, they’re urging you to keep going. When you feel insignificant and forgotten, they’re in your corner.
Everyone at some point feels like no one believes in them, like they can’t seem to get a break or do anything right. When you feel like that, remember you’re never alone. Your heavenly cheering squad believes you can do hard things with God’s help.
Prayer
Lord, I need Your help daily as I live in this world. Give me your love and strength to face each day, and Your mercy when I fail. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Stay encouraged!
Pastor Mike