.....feel

Have you ever seen a hot, dusty child throw off their tee-shirt and sandals and run across a beach into the water? Have you ever seen someone who has just received good news do a little dance or twirl – totally oblivious to all around them? Have you, yourself, felt the freedom of the removal of doubts, worries or fears? If so, then you can relate to the following scripture.

“Therefore since we are surrounded by so great a 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 set before us.” Hebrews 12:1

It is only too easy, or perhaps a human reaction, to hang on to our sins. We ruminate our infractions. We question ourselves - How could I have done such a thing? Why am I having those thoughts? What is wrong with me? And on we go, digging deeper and deeper into the pit.

Instead, scripture tells us to throw off the sin that entangles us or "ensnares us". Toss it aside, never to be picked up again. Focus on the goal ahead and run for it. God has forgiven us when we confess, and He has already forgotten our sin. He is with us urging us forward in total freedom. The voice that hinders our race, that insists we are not worth it, that we have totally blown our relationship with God, is the enemy of our souls. He would have us wallow in the darkness of our sin BUT God says, “ No – You are my beloved, forgiven child. Move forward into the light.” How wonderful is that!

The next time we feel burdened by sin and dark thoughts, let’s look up. That great cloud of witnesses is cheering us on. Throw off the gloom and soar as an eagle into the light of God’s forgiving grace. That is His gift to His children and it’s ours for the taking.

- pat earl