December 5, 2025

LAY ASIDE EVERY WEIGHT (PART 5)

Apst. Emmanuel Osezele

KEY TEXT: Hebrews 12:1 KJV: “…and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.”

The Christian race is not a quick sprint but a lifelong marathon. After laying aside weights, we must learn to run with patience. Trials, temptations, and delays are part of the journey, but we are commanded to endure without giving up. “But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved” (Matthew 24:13 KJV).

Many believers start with zeal but fail to continue when hardship arises. They become weary because they expect the race to be easy. Yet, God never promised a smooth path; He promised His grace to carry us through. The saints who have gone before us testify that endurance is possible through Christ.

Our focus must remain on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith. He endured the cross for the joy set before Him, and so must we. No matter the battles, we must press toward the mark for the prize of eternal life. “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14 KJV).

PRAYER:

Father, strengthen me to endure in faith till the end, and keep my eyes fixed on Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior, in Jesus Christ’s mighty name. Amen.

REFLECTION:

Philippians 3:14 KJV: “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, give me the strength to endure every trial and challenge on my Christian journey. Let nothing weaken my resolve to follow You faithfully to the end, in Jesus Christ’s mighty name. Amen

2. O Lord, empower me to run this heavenly race with patience. Deliver me from discouragement, weariness, and every spirit of giving up, in Jesus Christ’s mighty name. Amen

3. My Father, fix my eyes on Jesus—the Author and Finisher of my faith. Help me to focus on His example, His sacrifice, and the eternal joy that lies ahead, in Jesus Christ’s mighty name. Amen

4. Lord Jesus, grant me the grace to press toward the mark daily. Let every distraction, delay, or difficulty lose its power over my destiny, in Jesus Christ’s mighty name. Amen