Look to Jesus
Hebrews 12:1-2a
Hebrews 12:1-2a 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,
1. Creates Expectation
Appreciation without expectation signals the absence of relationship.
Micah 7:7 (NLT)
As for me, I look to the LORD for help. I wait confidently for God to save me, and my God will certainly hear me.
Psalm 34:5–6 (NLT)
Those who look to him for help will be radiant with joy; no shadow of shame will darken their faces. In my desperation I prayed, and the LORD listened; he saved me from all my troubles.
Isaiah 45:22a (NLT)
Let all the world look to me for salvation! For I am God; there is no other.
2. Compels Exclusion
Proverbs 4:25–27 (NLT)
Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don’t get sidetracked;
2 Corinthians 4:18 (NLT)
So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.
“Nothing will divert and draw off our minds from discouraging views… but faith and trust in Christ.” ~John Owen
3. Concrete Example
Hebrews 12:2 (ESV)
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.
