June 28 – Daily Devotional

31 May June 28 – Daily Devotional

A SERIES OF DEVOTIONS BASED ON THE BOOK OF HEBREWS

BY FAITH – PART XI

Hebrews 12:1-3  “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. 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. Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”

The sports world is keenly aware of the importance of having a full stadium of loyal fans cheering-on their team.  One professional team puts great pride in their fans calling them the 12^th man.  In the heat of the game, when the athletes are tired, exhausted, and virtually unable to go any further, the roar of the crowd can make the difference between defeat and victory.

There is one more need that every winning team has.  That is a superior coach.  A great coach is able not only to create the perfect game plan, but must also be able to inspire, give confidence, and instill unity in all the players on his team.  If the fans are the 12^th man, then the coach is the 13^th.

The writer to the Hebrews in today’s devotional verses tells you, you are not alone in your daily, weekly, monthly, yearly, life-long journey through this world.  You are surrounded by a “cloud of witnesses” who have made this journey ahead of you.  They are God’s testimony to you that nothing can separate you from His love nor your faith in Christ Jesus.  God has gotten them across the finish line.  They victoriously stand by His side cheering you on as you continue your journey toward your victory in Christ Jesus your Lord and Savior.

God has provided you His perfect Son who endured the cross and rose victoriously from the grave for you. So, today’s verses say to you, “ . . . run with perseverance the race marked out for (you), fixing (your) eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of (your) faith.”  (Hebrews 12:1-2)

Prayer:  Jesus, lead me on my earthly journey  until my race is won.  In Your holy name.  Amen.

Jesus, lead Thou on Till our rest is won; And although the way be cheerless,

We will follow calm and fearless.  Guide us by Thy hand To our fatherland.

If the way be drear, If the foe be near, Let not faithless fears o’ertake us; Let not faith and hope forsake us;  For through many_a woe To our home we go.

When we seek relief From a long-felt grief, When temptations come alluring,

Make us patient and enduring; Show us that bright shore Where we weep no more.

Jesus, lead Thou on Till our rest is won.  Heav’nly leader still direct us,

Still support, console, protect us, Till we safely stand In our fatherland.

(LSB 718)