Scripture: Hebrews 12: 1, 4, 7

 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 (1) …  In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood.(4)  It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? (7)

Scripture Commentary: We do not struggle alone.

We are not the first to struggle with the problems we face.  Being a Christian involves hard work.  It requires us to give up whatever endangers our relationship with God, to run patiently, and to resist sin with the help of the Holy Spirit.

Many have already made it through life, enduring far more difficult circumstances than we have experienced.  We are alive so God still has a job for us.

God’s discipline is a sign of His love for us.

God keeps us, corrects us, and even chastises us at times because He loves us.  It is never pleasant to be disciplined by God, but His discipline is a sign of His deep love for us.

When God corrects us, we should view it as proof of His love and ask Him what He is trying to teach us.  When we talk to God and ask Him questions, He will answer.

Our God is a living God who takes care of us.  Talk to Him.

Let the Holy Spirit grow in you.  God will never lead you in the wrong way.  Christ is both sufficient and superior.

Read the Entire Chapter:
Hebrews Chapter 12