No one else can hinder your race. -Bob Sorge

That sentence sparked some serious thought. 

Hebrews 12:1-2a says, “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, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”

If I am running the race marked out for me, then the only one who can hinder me—is me. 

God took environment, education, and abilities into account when He designed each of our courses. I must keep my size 8s moving forward until I cross my finish line. You have a finish line to cross too. Let’s take a look at some typical hindrances: 

Overdressing: I hate being cold so I usually start with more layers than I need. Minutes later, I’m sweating. What can you shed now that you’ve warmed up? 

“But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ . . .  I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.” Philippians 3:7-9

Flapping Shoelaces: I always double tie my laces. Laces that dangle will soon entangle. What loose ends do you have? 

“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.” Matthew 5:23-24

Tripping Over Obstacles: I’ve tripped over everything from trash to the dog. Why? I’m not paying attention to what’s in front of me. The screech of tires. The sweet smell of honeysuckle. The burn of salty sweat. Distractions pull my eyes from the path. What distracts you? What trips you?

“Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word.” Psalm 119:37

Dragging Feet: The older I get, the more I drag my feet. When my toe catches and I stumble, I give a little more effort. In what areas of your spiritual walk are you tempted to drag your feet?

“Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees.” Hebrews 12:12

“Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.” 1 Timothy 4:16

No one else can hinder your race. Take some time to examine the hindrances affecting your race—and throw them off. 

Workout of the Week: The Hindrance? Me

Memory Verse: “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, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” Hebrews 12:1-2a

Meditation Passage: Philippians 3:7-9

Do It: Throw them off and run.