Christine Caine: How Faith, Endurance, and Pressure are all Connected
Christine Caine: How Faith, Endurance, and Pressure are all Connected
Running the Race of Faith with Endurance
Endurance is built when you push forward, even when you feel like giving up. In this message, we will dive into the book of Hebrews, where the writer addresses Jewish Christians facing intense trials and persecution. Many of them began to question whether they had made the right choice in following Jesus. The hardships they endured made them wonder if returning to traditional Judaism would be easier.
They thought, If we go back, our families will accept us, our friends will welcome us, and our employers will treat us better. Choosing to follow Christ had cost them their rights, privileges, and social status. For many, the sacrifice seemed too great, and they considered returning to their former way of life.
The writer of Hebrews, however, urged them to stand firm in their faith. He used the powerful metaphor of an athlete running a race to illustrate the perseverance needed. In Hebrews 12:1-3, we read:
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every hindrance and the sin that so easily entangles us. Let us run with endurance the race set before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross, despising 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 or lose heart.”
This passage paints a picture of a grand stadium—not filled with spectators, but with witnesses. Unlike those who simply watch a game, these witnesses have already run their race. They have finished their course, overcome challenges, and remained faithful. They serve as living proof that endurance is possible.
When we face difficulties, we find encouragement in those who have gone before us. Their testimony reminds us: If they made it, so can we! The heroes of faith in Hebrews 12 endured trials, yet they finished strong. We, too, can press on, even in uncertain and challenging times.
The passage begins with the word therefore, which signals a continuation of an argument that started in Hebrews 10 and 11. The message is clear: persevere in faith. If we are to complete our race, we must develop endurance, because trials and tribulations will come.
Hebrews 10:32-36 reminds us:
“Remember the earlier days, after you had been enlightened, when you endured a hard struggle with sufferings. Sometimes you were publicly exposed to insult and persecution; at other times, you stood side by side with those who were treated that way. You suffered along with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you had better and lasting possessions. So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need endurance so that after you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised.”
This passage reinforces the urgent need for endurance. Without it, we cannot reach the finish line. The Christian journey is not without hardship, but through faith and perseverance, we will see the promises of God fulfilled in our lives.
