Comparing the Christian life with a race, Hebrews 12:1 urges us to “lay aside every weight …” Every disciple of Jesus who expects to win the Christian race must weed from his life that which hinders his running. You have never seen an overweight marathon runner win a race or a fit marathon runner win a race with weights tied to his ankle!
There are several ways to determine what might constitute a “weight” or hinderance. Anything is a weight: 1) If it is condemned in the New Testament (every sin is a weight but not all weights are sins); 2) If it reduces our interest in spiritual matters; 3) If it becomes a stumblingblock in our fellow Christian’s path; 4) If it hinders our personal Christian influence; or 5) If it hinders the work or influence of the church.
Some weights in our lives which can be fitted to these five points may not be grossly evil. Habits, dispositions and a strong attachment to worldly affairs and possessions can hinder. If we dress immodestly or speak profanely, it will hinder. Even as “insignificant” a matter as how we choose to use our leisure time matters. “Weights” can be found in every facet of our lives.
If religion, many things prove to be hindrances. Religious traditions that are false and family ties or prejudices are some of the “weights” which slow us in the Christian race. Others may be entertainments or pastimes that keep us from worship, prayer or Bible reading. You cannot win your race until you free yourself from the hindrances Satan will impose. “If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:26-27).
Kyle Campbell