9.3. ENDURING FAITH FOCUSES ON ENDING THE RACE (Hebrews 12:1)

Hebrews 12:1 "... and let us run with patience the race that is set before us," (KJV)

Paul was a perseverer and a finisher, and was not deterred by the chains and tribulation that awaited him.

Acts 20:24 "But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God." (NKJV)

We are encouraged to perseverance and to finish our race.

1 Corinthians 9:24 "Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it." (NKJV)

(Also read 1 Corinthians 9:25-27; 2 Timothy 4:7 )

Encourage your own perseverance by unassailable truths:

	Your course is set by God, with you being a winner in mind (Psalm 25:9 (NIV); Hebrews 13:5-6; Zechariah 2:10 ).
	You have set before you in God's Word, the way to run the race (Romans 15:4; Psalm 119:105 ).
	You will be faced with difficulties, but never greater than the power of your faith (1 Samuel 14:6 ).
	You know that no matter how long the race may seem, that it has a finishing line (2 Timothy 4:7 ).
	You know that you can rely on the strengthening might of the Holy Spirit within you (Ephesians 3:16; Zechariah 4:6 ).

9.4. ENDURING FAITH FIXES ITS EYES ON JESUS (Hebrews 12:2, 3)

Hebrews 12:2 "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; ..." (KJV)

A straight course can only be run by fixing our eyes on Jesus. Listen to the testimony of others and so learn what to lay aside. Others can only point to Jesus. Greek word 'archegos' has the idea of pioneer or "leader", therefore look beyond all others to Him.

	Jesus as the "finisher" is the strengthener, supporter and sustainer and guarantor of your complete success.
	Jesus perfectly lived the life of obedient trust and dependence on the Father's direction and word. He did always those things that pleased the Father.
	Jesus chose the Father's will, and endured the cross and its shame. In all the agony, rejection, desertion, His total trust in the Father carried Him through.
	Jesus is the one to keep your eyes on, He is your example - enabler - and empowerment (Philippians 4:13 )
	Jesus patiently endured for joy in the triumph of God's purposes. Let His joy motivate your endurance of faith.

Hebrews 12:2 "... who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, ..." (KJV)

	His joy was delight in God's intended redemption being fulfilled.
	His joy was in the many sons He would bring to glory.
	His joy was in the ministry He would be occupied in at the throne of God.
	His joy was to be in the place of power as our great High Priest.

Hebrews 12:2 "... and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. (KJV)"

Focus on His joy - be motivated by the fulfilment of God's great plan of salvation being consummated. Let His joy of seeking the wellbeing of others make you despise the cost of self-sacrifice. Rejoice with Him in His all authority in heaven and earth (Matthew 28:18 ), and the glory ahead of you. Such joy will make you unstoppable in your life of faith. By considering Him you draw upon His resources keeping you from being weary and discouraged (Hebrews 12:3 ). Nothing can confront you that He has not already victoriously faced and overcome. He will repeat His triumph in your experience, for His enduring faith overcomes all.

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QUESTIONS FOR GROUP INTERACTION

1. Is Paul an example to you of running with endurance the race of faith (Hebrews 12:1 )?

2. What unassailable truths encourage your own perseverance ?

3. Can you give examples of Jesus being your strengthener in the race of faith (Hebrews 12:2; Philippians 4:13 )?

4. Do you know anything of the joy of Jesus that faced and endured the cross (Hebrews 12:2 )?