Running Light, Running Free
Day 5, Week 1 | Divest
Hebrews 12:1-3 (ESV)
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (ESV)
So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.
Matthew 11:28-30 (ESV)
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
We all know what it feels like to be weighed down. Life is filled with burdens, and sometimes we try to carry far more than we’re designed to bear. Hebrews 12:3 tells us to “consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.” The answer to our weariness is not to try harder, but to look to Jesus—the One who has already run the race, carrying the ultimate burden, so that you can run light and free.
The race of faith isn’t about self-effort. It’s about releasing control and trusting the One who has already secured victory for you. The problem is, we often try to run while carrying all our fears, worries, and doubts. We cling to things we were never meant to hold, and we wonder why the race feels so hard, like you’re running with muddy boots. We struggle with letting go because we often believe the lie that we need to be in control, that our lives will only be okay if we carry it all ourselves.
The grace of God invites you to a different way. It invites you to lay down the burdens that weigh you down and to trust that Jesus’ strength is enough. When the writer of Hebrews says, “consider him,” that’s not a quick glance. It’s a deep and intentional focus. It’s taking the time to remember who Jesus is, what He has endured, and what His victory means for you. He faced hostility, suffering, and the cross—all for the joy set before Him. And that joy included the freedom He offers you this very day.
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 reminds us that though we may feel the weight of affliction, our burdens are temporary in the light of eternity. The invitation is to fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen—to lift our eyes above the difficulties and see the eternal glory that far outweighs every temporary struggle. Jesus promises that His yoke is easy and His burden is light. So why are you still carrying what you don’t need to?
Running light and free means you don’t have to rely on your own strength. It means leaning into the grace that God offers every day. It’s about surrendering the need to control outcomes, trusting that God is good, and believing that His promises hold true even when life feels overwhelming. The race of faith isn’t about perfection. It’s about perseverance. And the One who endured it all runs with you, giving you strength for each step.
REFLECT: When you feel weary, where do you find your strength? Are you considering what Jesus endured for you and allowing His example to encourage you in your race?
PRAY: Lord, help me to remember that Jesus has already run this race and finished it for me. When I am tempted to grow weary, lift my eyes to Him. Give me the strength to endure and the courage to trust in Your promises.
ACT: Meditate on Hebrews 12:3 today. Write out a prayer thanking Jesus for His endurance and ask Him to help you run light and free. As you go through your day, remind yourself that He is with you, guiding each step.
