Perseverance: Staying Committed to Our Faith Journey
Summary
### Summary
Today, we explored the theme of perseverance in our faith journey, focusing on how to maintain and grow our faith over the long haul. We began by acknowledging that many of us are excellent at starting new things but often struggle to see them through to completion. This is true in various aspects of life, including our spiritual journey. The key question we addressed was: How good are we at staying with the things we begin, especially our faith in Jesus?
We delved into Hebrews 12:1-3, which encourages us to throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and to run with perseverance the race marked out for us. The passage emphasizes fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who endured the cross for the joy set before Him. This scripture serves as a blueprint for overcoming obstacles and maintaining our faith.
We identified three categories of obstacles: things that hinder, sin that entangles, and opposition that makes us want to give up. Each of these requires a different strategy to overcome. For instance, non-sinful distractions can still impede our spiritual growth, and we need to be vigilant about what we give our time and energy to. Sin, on the other hand, requires us to face it head-on, understanding that Jesus has already defeated it. Lastly, opposition and life's hardships can make us weary, but we are encouraged to draw strength from Jesus and the community of faith around us.
To sustain our faith, we need sources of inspiration and encouragement. Hebrews 12:1 mentions a "great cloud of witnesses," referring to the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11. Their stories inspire us to hold on to our faith despite obstacles. Additionally, our church community serves as a modern-day cloud of witnesses, providing support and encouragement. Most importantly, we are to fix our eyes on Jesus, who has the ultimate staying power.
We concluded by emphasizing the importance of having a plan to keep our faith strong. This includes regular spiritual practices like prayer, scripture reading, and worship. We also need to be part of a faith community that supports and encourages us. The goal is to have a faith that goes the distance, not just a short-term, two-and-a-half-mile faith.
### Key Takeaways
1. Perseverance in Faith: Staying with our faith journey requires more than just a good start. It involves a commitment to growth and perseverance, much like maintaining a thriving marriage or a long-term career. This kind of faith is built on daily, intentional practices that keep us connected to Jesus and our faith community. [23:07]
2. Identifying Obstacles: We must recognize and address the obstacles that hinder our faith. These can be non-sinful distractions, entangling sins, or life’s hardships. By identifying these obstacles, we can develop strategies to overcome them and continue making progress in our faith journey. [27:29]
3. Facing Sin Head-On: Sin can entangle and hinder our spiritual growth, but Jesus has already defeated it. We need to face our sins, understand their impact, and seek freedom through repentance and the power of the Holy Spirit. This involves seeing ourselves as God sees us—redeemed and empowered to overcome sin. [33:24]
4. Drawing Strength from Community: The "great cloud of witnesses" in Hebrews 12:1 and our church community provide essential support and encouragement. Engaging with these stories and people helps us hold on to our faith, especially during challenging times. Isolation can lead to a weakened faith, so staying connected is crucial. [39:27]
5. Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus: The ultimate source of strength and perseverance is Jesus. By fixing our eyes on Him through practices like prayer, scripture reading, and worship, we can sustain our faith. Jesus’ example of enduring the cross for the joy set before Him inspires us to endure our own trials and remain faithful. [42:54]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[19:57] - Introduction and Energy
[20:13] - Starting New Things
[22:07] - Staying with What We Begin
[23:07] - Commitment in Marriage and Faith
[24:15] - Going the Distance in Faith
[25:01] - Hebrews 12:1-3 Reading
[27:29] - Identifying Obstacles
[29:19] - Non-Sinful Distractions
[31:34] - Entangling Sin
[33:24] - Facing Sin Head-On
[38:24] - Opposition and Hardships
[39:27] - Drawing Strength from Community
[42:54] - Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus
[46:44] - Two and a Half Mile Faith
[48:16] - Spiritual Practices for Perseverance
[49:11] - Vision for Long-Term Faith
[50:10] - Entering the Race of Faith
[51:09] - Seasonal Faith vs. Committed Faith
[52:17] - Prayer and Ministry Time
[54:41] - Moving Towards What God Has for Us
[01:01:26] - Final Encouragement and Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
- Hebrews 12:1-3
- Romans 6:11-14
- 2 Timothy 4:7
### Observation Questions
1. According to Hebrews 12:1-3, what are the three categories of obstacles that can hinder our faith journey? ([27:55])
2. In Romans 6:11-14, what does Paul instruct believers to do with their bodies in relation to sin and righteousness? ([34:29])
3. How does the "great cloud of witnesses" mentioned in Hebrews 12:1 serve as a source of encouragement for believers? ([39:27])
4. What does 2 Timothy 4:7 reveal about Paul's perspective on his faith journey? ([49:11])
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it important to differentiate between non-sinful distractions and sinful entanglements in our faith journey? How can this understanding impact our daily lives? ([29:06])
2. How does fixing our eyes on Jesus, as mentioned in Hebrews 12:2, help us endure life's hardships and maintain our faith? ([42:54])
3. What does it mean to "count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus" as stated in Romans 6:11? How can this perspective change the way we deal with sin? ([34:29])
4. How can the stories of the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11 inspire us to persevere in our own faith journeys? ([39:46])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your current spiritual practices. Are they sufficient to sustain your faith for the long haul? What changes might you need to make to ensure your faith goes the distance? ([48:16])
2. Identify a non-sinful distraction in your life that might be hindering your spiritual growth. What steps can you take this week to minimize or eliminate this distraction? ([29:38])
3. Is there a specific sin that you feel entangled in? How can you seek freedom through repentance and the power of the Holy Spirit? Consider sharing this struggle with a trusted friend or mentor for support. ([33:24])
4. How can you draw strength from your church community to help you persevere in your faith? Are there specific people or groups you can connect with for encouragement and support? ([39:27])
5. What are some practical ways you can fix your eyes on Jesus daily? Consider incorporating practices like prayer, scripture reading, and worship into your routine. ([42:54])
6. Think about a time when you faced significant opposition or hardship. How did you respond, and what role did your faith play in that situation? How can you prepare yourself to handle future challenges with a stronger faith? ([38:24])
7. Reflect on Paul's declaration in 2 Timothy 4:7. What steps can you take today to ensure that you can one day say, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith"? ([49:11])
Devotional
Day 1: Perseverance in Faith
Perseverance in our faith journey is not just about starting strong but about maintaining and growing our faith over the long haul. Many of us are excellent at starting new things but often struggle to see them through to completion. This is true in various aspects of life, including our spiritual journey. The key question we must ask ourselves is: How good are we at staying with the things we begin, especially our faith in Jesus?
Hebrews 12:1-3 encourages us to throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and to run with perseverance the race marked out for us. This passage emphasizes fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who endured the cross for the joy set before Him. This scripture serves as a blueprint for overcoming obstacles and maintaining our faith. By committing to daily, intentional practices that keep us connected to Jesus and our faith community, we can build a faith that goes the distance. [23:07]
Hebrews 12:1-3 (ESV): "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God."
Reflection: What daily, intentional practices can you commit to this week to help you stay connected to Jesus and your faith community?
Day 2: Identifying Obstacles
To sustain our faith, we must recognize and address the obstacles that hinder us. These obstacles can be non-sinful distractions, entangling sins, or life’s hardships. By identifying these obstacles, we can develop strategies to overcome them and continue making progress in our faith journey. Non-sinful distractions, such as hobbies or work, can still impede our spiritual growth if they consume too much of our time and energy.
Sin, on the other hand, requires us to face it head-on, understanding that Jesus has already defeated it. Lastly, opposition and life's hardships can make us weary, but we are encouraged to draw strength from Jesus and the community of faith around us. By being vigilant about what we give our time and energy to, and by seeking freedom through repentance and the power of the Holy Spirit, we can overcome these obstacles. [27:29]
1 Corinthians 10:13 (ESV): "No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it."
Reflection: What are some non-sinful distractions in your life that may be hindering your spiritual growth? How can you manage your time and energy to prioritize your faith journey?
Day 3: Facing Sin Head-On
Sin can entangle and hinder our spiritual growth, but Jesus has already defeated it. We need to face our sins, understand their impact, and seek freedom through repentance and the power of the Holy Spirit. This involves seeing ourselves as God sees us—redeemed and empowered to overcome sin. By acknowledging our sins and seeking God's forgiveness, we can break free from their hold and continue to grow in our faith.
Facing sin head-on requires courage and honesty. It means admitting our weaknesses and asking for God's help to overcome them. By doing so, we can experience the freedom and joy that comes from living a life that is pleasing to God. [33:24]
1 John 1:9 (ESV): "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
Reflection: What sins are entangling you and hindering your spiritual growth? Take time today to confess them to God and seek His forgiveness and strength to overcome them.
Day 4: Drawing Strength from Community
The "great cloud of witnesses" in Hebrews 12:1 and our church community provide essential support and encouragement. Engaging with these stories and people helps us hold on to our faith, especially during challenging times. Isolation can lead to a weakened faith, so staying connected is crucial. Our church community serves as a modern-day cloud of witnesses, providing support and encouragement.
By sharing our struggles and victories with others, we can draw strength from their experiences and insights. Being part of a faith community helps us stay accountable and motivated in our spiritual journey. It reminds us that we are not alone and that others are walking the same path with us. [39:27]
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (ESV): "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!"
Reflection: How can you engage more deeply with your church community this week? Consider reaching out to someone for support or offering encouragement to a fellow believer.
Day 5: Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus
The ultimate source of strength and perseverance is Jesus. By fixing our eyes on Him through practices like prayer, scripture reading, and worship, we can sustain our faith. Jesus’ example of enduring the cross for the joy set before Him inspires us to endure our own trials and remain faithful. When we focus on Jesus, we are reminded of His love, sacrifice, and power, which gives us the strength to persevere.
Regular spiritual practices help us stay connected to Jesus and draw from His strength. By making time for prayer, scripture reading, and worship, we can keep our eyes fixed on Him and remain steadfast in our faith. Jesus' example encourages us to endure our trials with hope and joy, knowing that He is with us every step of the way. [42:54]
Colossians 3:1-2 (ESV): "If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth."
Reflection: What specific steps can you take this week to fix your eyes on Jesus? Consider setting aside dedicated time for prayer, scripture reading, and worship each day.
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Because here's what we just have to establish. Anyone can get married but to have a thriving marriage for over 20 years, that's going to take growth and commitment. Would you agree? By the way, any couples that have been married over 20 years, I think this would be a great time to say, come on, hi, hi. them up if you're happily married over 20 years. Yeah, yeah, yeah. No, seriously. My hand's up with you. December will be 24 for me and I'm just saying it was pretty easy. Let's just be straight. It was pretty easy to get married but to have a thriving marriage that takes growth and it takes commitment." [23:07] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "So what I want to ask you genuinely is, would you like to know what it takes to go the distance when it comes to following Jesus? Would you like to know how to go the distance when it comes to following Jesus? Today would be a great day to take notes because I'm going to ask several questions. We're all going to get the same question but your answer really needs to be specific based on where you are in your faith journey, what season you're in, just life, what circumstances and so I would encourage you from the youngest to the oldest, take some notes today and you'll be able to implement this." [24:15] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "It is possible to give your life to non-sinful things that could still keep you from making progress in your faith like God designed you for I'm like ooh because what I like to think even as a pastor is as long as I'm not doing something sinful I'm God we're good anybody else? And it is true we don't need to do sinful things but in this text we're learning that there can be non-sinful things we're giving our minds to our bodies to certainly our time energy and attention to that God will not say you need to confess that sin you're not sinning but he might say Ben is that the best use of your time?" [29:19] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "You can be free from the thing that's killing you because Jesus has already defeated the thing that's killing you you can have the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit so some of you are addicted to pornography you can't imagine life being free from it you can be free otherwise what Jesus did isn't good enough but I'm pretty convinced that what he did is sufficient some of you that have a negative mindset and you think you're doing the world a favor by self-loathing that's hindering you from what you could be giving your life to Jesus wants to free you from that habits addictions whatever it is." [37:05] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Will your current spiritual practices give you what you need to go the distance in your faith if not here's some questions I would ask myself what should I give more time to what should I give more time to or less time to what should I give more attention or less attention should I do in terms of my spiritual community what should I do in terms of my ability to put myself deeper into this church community I would just start coming up with a plan and here's the big picture here's where we want to end up." [48:16] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "So let me just ask you this question to sort of help you self-assess as we get going today. How good are you at staying with the things you begin? How good are you at staying with, now I'm going to shoot straight with you. There are some things that we start and then we realize we don't need to stay with them. There are some people you start dating and you're like, I don't need to stay. Like there are some jobs. We start well but how good are you at staying with the things you begin that you want to keep making progress in?" [22:37] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "What are the obstacles that stand in the way of you keeping your faith? And again I would be writing some notes down on my phone or on a piece of paper what are the obstacles that just stand in the way of you keeping your faith? I had a mentor who told me we were talking strategy one time and he said Ben all strategy is is your plan for how you're going to overcome the obstacles between where you or the church or your family are today versus where you want to be one day." [27:29] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "How you see yourself determines how you see your sin how you see yourself determines how you see your sin to back it up a step how you see God seeing you determines how you see yourself and how you see your sin what do I mean I mean this if you don't understand that you have new life in Christ and by the way I know many of you today would not consider yourselves to be people of faith you're not Christians we would pray and hope and encourage you and we'll invite you later to make that decision but if you have life in Christ but you see sin as the dominating power in your life you've forgotten who you are in Christ." [35:00] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The people who decide they're going to kind of have a take it or leave it approach to faith always leave their faith can I say it louder for those of you in the back people who have a take it or leave it approach to faith they always leave it people who isolate themselves from the people of God tend to end up walking away from faith in that God so if I were to look at your attachment or your lack of attachment to this faith community or if you're visiting from out of town or watching online somewhere another faith community would I bet on you keeping your faith for the long haul or through you not having the attachments would I go man I just don't think they'll be able to make it on their own." [41:44] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "If you haven't heard anything else I believe most of us watching online and most of us in this room spiritually speaking have what we need for a two and a half miles faith journey I think you do but friends the challenge is the race God has marked out for us it is a marathon and I've seen way too many people have a two and a half mile faith that wouldn't take them where they needed to go when life got hard when life got busy when they got disappointed when someone walked out on them in their marriage are you with me so are you interested in having a two and a half mile faith or one that will go the distance takes a different training doesn't it takes a different depth to faith." [46:44] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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