Gems of Knowledge

Today’s One Year Bible Verses: Ezekiel 29:1-30:26, Hebrews 11:32-12:13, Psalm 112:1-10, Proverbs 27:17

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Run With Endurance

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down… And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.”
— Hebrews 12:1 (NLT)

There’s a race marked out for you—not your neighbor, not your favorite author or preacher—you. And it’s not a sprint. It’s a marathon of faith, full of hills, setbacks, breakthroughs, and refining fire. Hebrews 12 reminds us: you don’t run it alone. You’re cheered on by generations of faithful ones who already crossed the finish line—heroes like Abraham, Moses, Esther, and Paul. They shout, “Keep going!”

But to run well, some things have to go.

The Word says to strip off every weight—not just sin, but anything that slows us down. Maybe it’s fear. Maybe it’s discouragement. Maybe it’s the lie that you’re not good enough or making a difference. Let it fall off like a heavy coat on a summer day. You don’t need it. You were never meant to carry it. Jesus wants to take it – let Him.

And when discipline comes? Don’t mistake it for rejection. Hebrews 12:6 says, “The Lord disciplines those He loves.” You are not being punished—you are being trained. Just like an athlete builds strength through pressure and repetition, God is strengthening your spirit. He is preparing you to finish strong.

Keep your eyes on Jesus, the Champion who initiates and perfects your faith. He endured the cross by looking beyond it—and so must we. There’s glory on the other side of your endurance. There’s purpose in the pain. And there is joy waiting for those who do not give up.

And if you’re tired—if your legs are shaking and your heart feels faint—hear the Word of the Lord:

“So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees.” (Hebrews 12:12, NLT)

God sees you. He’s not asking you to run alone or in your own strength. He’s lifting your chin, steadying your knees, and whispering, “Keep going, beloved. You’re not finished yet.” 💎

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Action (5 Minutes with God)

Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal anything weighing you down in this race of faith. Are you discouraged? Distracted? Holding on to sin, comparison, or lies?

✍️ Write down what He reveals. Confess it. Release it. Then ask the Lord:

• “What do You want me to know about this?”
  • Journal what He whispers through the Holy Spirit.
• Then asl, “What do you want me to do?”
  • Write down what He whispers to you – then do it!

Let today be a turning point—a moment of renewal, realignment, and resolve to keep running the race marked out for you with endurance, strength, and unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. 😍

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Prayer

Jesus, sometimes I feel tired, but I won’t give up. Thank You for staying beside me when the road feels long and my strength fades. Lift my head, steady my heart, and help me fix my eyes on You. Train me through the hard things, and let Your joy be my strength. Breathe new life into me today and give me the courage to keep running the good race to You. In Your mighty name I pray, Jesus, Amen.

To read more 5 Minutes with God devotionals click here.