Published 9/9/19
Read 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. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him 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 sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."
Reflect
• What can help you run with perseverance the race marked out for you?
A couple of years ago, the Lord laid on my heart a desire for accountability. My Pastor had begun encouraging us as a congregation to form "life transformation groups" of two or three. These groups would serve as accountability partners and intercessors for one another. Each week, we would meet to ask questions about our thought lives, fantasies, behavior, and temptations and share concerns and victories in a completely honest and confidential manner.
I highly recommend having a life transformation partner. It will revolutionize your life and bring a wisdom and security that you have never known before. Here's what I'm learning:
Sharing my life--one heart to another--enables me to . . .
. . . be my brother's (or sister's) keeper. Take a look at what Oswald Chambers has to say about this: "Has it ever dawned on you that you are responsible for other souls spiritually before God? For instance, if I allow any private deflection from God in my life, everyone about me suffers. . . . When once you allow physical selfishness, mental slovenliness, moral obtuseness, spiritual density, everyone belonging to your crowd will suffer. 'But,' you say, 'who is sufficient for these things if you erect a standard like that?' Our sufficiency is of God, and of Him alone."[1]
. . . be real with God--and others. The Scriptures tell us that God does not want you to be superficial--in our relationship with Him, with others, or in our private life. In Psalm 51:6, David writes, "Surely You desire truth in the inner parts; you teach me wisdom in the inmost place."
Pray
Lord, I want my faith to grow. I want to stand radically for You! Help me find a solid mentor to help me grow. Help me to pray daily and spend time in the Bible. Amen.
[1] Chambers, Oswald, My Utmost for His Highest, (New York: Dodd, Mead & Company, © 1935), p. 46.
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