PART TWO

Persevering in the Example of Christ

Hardship and suffering are part of life, and in those moments, it’s important to remember that we’re not alone. Hebrews 12:1-3 reminds us that we are surrounded by a “great cloud of witnesses”—those who have gone before us, faced similar struggles, and can now encourage us.

We’re also surrounded by those who are watching us today, looking to see how we endure. Whether it’s children, friends, or even strangers, the way we respond to hardship sets an example for others.

The passage encourages us to “throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles,” meaning there are things in life—both sin and non-sin issues—that can hold us back. Our personalities, fears, or distractions can be hindrances, and sin can entangle us, making it hard to run the race of faith.

Yet, we’re invited to persevere, running the race marked out for each of us, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.

Above all, we’re to fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. Jesus endured the cross with joy, despising its shame, and now sits at the right hand of God. His example shows us that we can endure hardship with joy, knowing that there’s a greater purpose and reward ahead.

Christ’s victory over suffering gives us hope and assurance that we, too, can persevere.

Key Takeaways

• We are surrounded by witnesses who have endured hardship before us and by those who are watching us now.
• Both sin and other hindrances can hold us back from running the race God has set for us.
• The race we run requires perseverance, but God is with us every step of the way.
• Jesus is our ultimate example—He endured the cross with joy, showing us how to endure suffering with hope and purpose.
• Our victory in hardship is already secured in Christ, who sits at the right hand of God.

Additional Scripture References

• Hebrews 12:1-3
• Philippians 2:3-4
• 1 Thessalonians 5:16-19
• Philippians 1:6
• 1 Peter 2:20-25
• Hebrews 5:7-9

Study Questions

1. How does remembering the “great cloud of witnesses” encourage you in your own hardships and suffering?
2. What are some things (sin or otherwise) that are currently hindering your ability to run the race of faith with perseverance?
3. How does Jesus’ example of enduring the cross “for the joy set before Him” help you to endure your own suffering with hope?
4. In what ways do you think your response to hardship impacts those who are watching, like children or friends?
5. How can you fix your eyes on Jesus in the midst of your current struggles and trust Him as the author and perfecter of your faith?