To be a world-class runner takes more than going for the occasional jog. In reality, these athletes leave no stone of their lives unturned as they seek opportunities to improve and succeed. According to Hebrews, the Christian life is similar. When one places their faith in Jesus Christ and becomes a partaker of the New Covenant in his blood, they also become participants in a life-long race that weaves its way through the streets of this world toward the finish-line of spiritual maturity. The author wants his readers to be world-class spiritual athletes, running “with endurance the race that is set before us” (12:1). He doesn’t want us shrinking back, slowing down, pulling up, or dropping out but pressing on to maturity with endurance. And to that end, he offers some inspired and practical advice, turning over some stones to show believers seven habits to practice in order to “run with endurance the race that is set before us.”
