n We are being rooted on by the hosts of heaven that have gone on before us.
n It is our duty to continue and finish what they started.
n The baton has been passed to you and me.
How do we accomplish this?
1. PRACTICE (1 Corinthians 9:25)
* Lay aside the weight—“weight”=mass, burden, hindrance (that that weighs you down and keeps you from accomplishing)
* And the sin—“sin”=err
n Both weight and sin refer to that which will keep you from hitting your mark.
n Get rid of the excess that will keep you from being the best you can be for the Lord.
n Focus on the fundamentals and the basics (2 Timothy 2:15).
**Illustration of a basketball in my hand versus a basketball in the hand of MJ**
Michael Jordan constantly worked to lay aside those things which would keep him from hitting the mark in basketball through practice.
2. PERSISTENCE (Hebrews 6:11-12)
n In this race we are running for the Lord, you don’t have to finish first—just finish.
n A persistent person doesn’t buckle under pressure or give up or in when things are difficult.
n The one who is persistent in his/her effort will receive what is promised (Hebrews 10:36-38).
n A persistent person will not allow victories or setbacks to dictate the progress of his/her pursuit (Philippians 3:12-14).
3. PERSPECTIVE
* Fixing our eyes upon Jesus—Involves a turning away from one thing to focus entirely on something else
n In a race, a runner’s perspective is fixed upon the finish line.
n Jesus, our trainer has taught and led by example:
a. Our example of trust in God (Luke 22:41-42)
b. Our example of commitment to God’s will (Hebrews 10:5-7)
c. Our example of prayer (Mark 1:35)
d. Our example of overcoming temptation and suffering (Hebrews 4:15)
e. Our example of endurance in loyalty to the Father
f. Our example of seeking the joy of completing the work God has called us to (2 Timothy 4:7-8)
