I have watched the marathons being run in record times and wonder how does a man keep up that pace for that length of time. Then, I saw a documentary on one of the runners and vigorous training they put their bodies through. They remove everything that would slow them down as they prepare to run their races. I think this is what Paul had in mind when he wrote our devotional verse this morning. (Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud 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 for us.) If we are going to run our race in life, if we want to fulfill our destiny and do God’s will, it is important that we lay aside every weight and sin and run the race with patience. God has chosen you and I to run this leg of life’s marathon and represent Him. It is important that we remove any distractions that would keep us from performing our best. There are many distractions and requirements on our time. But with God’s guidance, we can strip away the things that will hinder us. Keep your eyes on your goal and learn to say no to things that distract you and keep you from fulfilling your full potential. Be determined that nothing is going to hinder you from fulfilling God’s plan and purpose for your life. Pastor Don [image: image.png]