LEARNING DAILY

Hebrews 12:2, Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, 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.

In Hebrews chapter 11 the writer has given a list of examples Believers can look to as examples of faith. He then states that Believers are in a race and it is best to get rid of everything that hinders them from running and finishing the race. If you, as a Believer, are serious about running this race (walking the narrow way), it is going to be a great help to you if you do not carry any baggage as you go. I have run a few half marathons and carrying a backpack or running with a cell phone during the run would make it much more difficult. leaving the extra stuff behind was essential to running well and completing the race. Perseverance was essential to finishing the race.

Jesus Christ – the ultimate example of perseverance – is the One who was never distracted from the goal set before Him. Believers must look to Him, “to fix their eyes on Jesus” as they run this race called life. Believers must look at Him in faith, look at Him and His kingdom as their final destination.

When Jesus “stepped” into this world, He became the cornerstone of the Believer’s faith (John 1:14). Taking the form of a human, He fulfilled God’s plan to redeem those who would believe in Him; He bridged the gap between sinful humanity and a holy God. He taught about doctrines that have become the foundation of New Testament which showed salvation comes through Him alone, and how His Followers are to walk a narrow way for righteous living. Through miracles, healings, and various acts of compassion, He showed His divine authority and inspired those around Him in their faith. He showed His authority over creation and His ability to meet humanity’s deepest needs. Thus, He is the Author (Founder) of our Faith.

The Lord Jesus Christ not only initiated the Believer’s faith; He is the Finisher (Perfecter) of their Faith. Through His death, resurrection, and ascension He is perfecting the Believer’s faith as He sits at the right hand of the Father as the continual intercessor for Believers. Satan continually accuses the Believer of everything the Believer does. But Jesus Christ, our Intercessor, our Advocate, reminds the Father of our belief, our salvation in Him and God sees our faith in His Son is not in vain.

Know this Believer. Your faith in Jesus Christ is not in vain! From the birth of Jesus, His teachings, and His death and resurrection He has shown you the importance of walking the narrow way in relationship to God. He expects you to grow in your faith and be transformed into His likeness, empowered to run the race before you with endurance. Philippians 1:6, “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” (NLT). Therefore, keep “your eyes fixed on Jesus,” trusting Him to perfect your faith until you meet Jesus face to face!