S – Therefore, since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every hindrance and the sin that so easily ensnares us. Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us, ² keeping our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. For the joy that lay before him, he endured the cross, despising the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Hebrews 12:1–2 CSB

O – With the history of believers who exercised faith when it was challenging, we should exercise ours uninhibited by things that stop us.  We should persevere focused on Christ.  He modeled this for us when he went to the cross and was resurrected to heaven.

A – The journey of a believer in Christ is a lifetime.  From the moment we choose Christ as our Lord, we begin “the race” to heaven.  It is a marathon and not a sprint.  Our faith is what sustains us in the good and the bad.  

R – Heavenly Father, you are the one, true God.  Thank you for being the role model of Jesus’ perseverance while on earth.  Let us also demonstrate that strength and courage in our walk with you.  Empower us today to live aligned with your will and the resolve to do what you ask of us.