1 Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, (Hebrews 12:1)

Why do we often embrace our encumbrances?

Really think about that. How often do we keep after something that obviously is not serving God, us or others?

Oh, I get it. I am as stubborn as they come and often I just get my head set on something that holds little true or lasting value.

I think too often encumbrances are escapism. We simply do it because it is a break from the mundane or the stress of our lives.

But these encumbrances can become sin which so easily entangles us.

This is where the scripture calls for endurance to run the race ahead of us. To fight the good fight and to embrace the plan God has for our lives.