“ Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great crowd of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles and let us run with perseverance the race marked out before us.” Hebrews 12:1

I was thinking about this verse today. It reminded me – regardless of how tightly we may find this entanglement, it is hard to put your hand on the plow (Luke 9:62) and not be tripping each step of the way. Life is like that some days for all of us.

As I was praying over this today, I asked God “What is it in my life that is hindering me or entangling me?” Perhaps some of these same things are what you find yourself tripping over.

1. People who disappoint me or make me feel set aside. When I heard this, I wanted to argue but I knew it was true. I asked God to heal my heart as once again I put my list of people before Him and left them there.

2. The need for approval from people when God’s approval is really what I ought to seek and rest in.

3. Fear - the unknown, the what if’s of life. I took the ones that came to mind and left them with God.

4. Distraction: phones and to-do lists are my downfalls. I asked God to forgive me. I seek Him first.

5. Believing lies - this is an ever-changing list and the only way to deal with them is to recognize their sneaky presence and the whispering in my head. John 8:32 declares, “…the truth shall set you free.”

Though these may not be new, we need reminders. Actually dealing with the entanglements and whatever is hindering us needs to happen daily. It makes a difference. It is sure a less frustrating and tiring way to live.

May God open your eyes to see what is tripping you up today. May you have the courage to let all of it go.

Dear Father,

You have marked out for me a path I am to follow but you also see what is hindering me today. I ask that You reveal it to me so I can offer it to You. Give me the wisdom and courage to do what I ought today.

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen