Hebrews 12:1-6 New International Version (NIV)
12 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross,scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
God Disciplines His Children
4 In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. 5 And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says,
“My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline,
and do not lose heart when he rebukes you,
6 because the Lord disciplines the one he loves,
and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”
Jesus in my mediator. I am part of the new covenant. In this new covenant, I am sprinkled with the blood of Jesus. Jesus’ blood is sprinkled on my behalf. The blood of Jesus brings reconciliation. It brings mercy. It brings forgiveness. It brings atonement. Even when I do not know what to say, Jesus is always speaking on my behalf. His blood speaks on my behalf. I come to God on the basis of what Jesus did for me.
Dear Father, I will run with perseverance. I will fix my eyes on Jesus. Jesus is the source of my joy and peace. I will not grow weary or lose heart, for Jesus is my strength and confidence. Thank you. In Jesus’ Name I Pray, Amen.
