“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,” (Hebrews 12:1, NKJV)
PONDER THIS!
This verse of scripture is the conclusion of the lesson being taught in chapter eleven of how the saints of old kept and maintained their faith, even in the worst of times. The writer of Hebrews encourages us to do the same by saying, “since we are surrounded by so great cloud of witnesses . . .” Notice, we are “surrounded” by these witnesses.
We are under pressure and tried, it seems, from every angle, yet we must remember we are not alone. We must remember Jesus has promised to be with us, “even until the end of the world.” But we also are “surrounded” by our ancestors who labored and struggled, but still kept the faith and endured, believing there would be a better day.
1. Do you know that you have the spirits of the your ancestors cheering for you?
2. We are not to participate in ancestor worship as some cultures do, but it is good to know that we have a “cloud of witnesses” who sympathize and are rooting for your success.
3. Because we have this “cloud of witnesses” who are biological and spiritual family cheering for us, we should also feel a sense of responsibility and accountability for the way we live our lives.
4. Wherever you go, whatever you are faced with you should have a sense of protection, security and strength knowing that no matter what comes against you, YOU ARE SURROUNDED!