“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…” Hebrews 12:1
The “cloud of witnesses” refers to the people of faith mentioned in Hebrews Chapter 11. They are not actually spectators watching us; they are witnesses, whose examples testify to the truth of the faith. Their examples show that we are not alone in our struggle to confess Christ. Like a cloud, the saints’ examples of right faith (faith alone for salvation) and good works (in response to God’s love) are visible.
Weight is anything that hinders a runner. Believers here still have the weight sin hindering their daily walk. Though justified, we are also sinners until we reach heaven.
The phrase “let us run” indicates the Christian life is a long-distance race that demands staying on the path and finishing.
The Christian life is an endurance race, run with remembrance of the saints who have already finished. But most of all, we look to Jesus and His cross. In Him, our race is already won.
God’s blessing on your day…