Fix Your Eyes on Jesus – Hebrews 12:1-3
Dec 6, 2025 365
[1] 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, [2] 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. [3] Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. (ESV)
[CLICK HERE FOR THE LATEST VIDEO DEVOTION WITH DAVE MIERS]
Therefore
That’s how chapter 12 begins. “Therefore.”
After eleven chapters of witnesses – from Abel to the martyrs – we get the application.
Verse 1: “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.”
We’re surrounded. The witnesses aren’t just ancient history. They’re a great cloud surrounding us, testifying to God’s faithfulness.
So run. Throw off everything that hinders. Lay aside the sin that entangles. Run with endurance the race God has marked out for you.
Looking to Jesus
But here’s the key. Verse 2 tells us where to fix our attention:
“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.”
Jesus is the founder and perfecter of faith. He’s not just another witness in the stands. He’s the pioneer who blazed the trail. He’s the one who perfects faith – both his own faith and ours.
How did he do it? He endured the cross. For the joy set before him, he scorned the shame and finished the race.
Now he sits at God’s right hand. Exalted. Reigning. Interceding for us.
Don’t Grow Weary
Verse 3 drives it home: “Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.”
Consider Jesus. Think about what he endured. Meditate on his perseverance through opposition, mockery, betrayal, and crucifixion.
Why? So you don’t grow weary. So you don’t lose heart.
The Good News Is…
The good news is that Jesus has already finished the race. He’s crossed the finish line. He’s sat down – his work complete.
And because he’s finished, we can run with confidence. We’re not running to earn God’s approval. We’re running from his approval, secured by Jesus’ finished work.
The witnesses surround us. But Jesus goes before us. He’s the founder who started the race. He’s the perfecter who completed it. And he’s the one who enables us to finish.
Keep your eyes on him.
Reflection
What distracts you from fixing your eyes on Jesus? What sin easily entangles you?
Leave a Reply