Quit Quitting: Keep Believing (Hebrews 12:1-3)

Series: Quit Quitting

Sermon: Keep Believing

Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-3

Date: April 28, 2019

 

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, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.  For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.  (Hebrews 12:1-3)

What is it that you started a long time ago that you are still glad you are doing today?

What do you wish you had kept doing one year ago?  Five years ago?

What was it in January you felt God calling you to do this year?

We know we can trust God because Jesus meant what He said and said what He meant, and Jesus is faithful 100%.

Here are three aspects of faith to encourage us to keep going:

1. People
   • One definition of encouragement is persuasion to do or continue doing something.
   • Hebrews 12:1
   • The key here is that we have a faith that finishes.
   • "You're winning the battle - when you stay in the battle."  -Ann Voskamp
   • Let's keep believing and praying: pray first and pray most.
2. Picture
   • Hebrews 12:2
   • Since Jesus did not give up or quit on you, don't give up or quit on Him.
   • "Faith is a confidence that keeps believing all the pieces are going to somehow fit together, even when you don't have the big picture to work from.  It's believing that God has a purpose, even when there seems to be no reason."  -Kyle Idleman
   • Hebrews 11:8
   • If you don't give up and keep following, you will have a faith story.
3. Prize
   • Hebrews 12:2-3, NLT
   • Jesus really is too legit for us to quit.