Cleanse: Week 4

CLEANSE WEEK 4: CLEANSE PATH

[Hebrews 12:1-2 NLT] 1 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, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God's throne.

[Hebrews 12:11 NLT] No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening — it's painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.

• “So then, strengthen hands that are weak and knees that tremble. Cut through and make smooth, straight paths for your feet…” -Hebrews 12:13

• Weak - doubts, wounds, sinful patterns, bitterness, drifted

  • These things exhaust us in our faith. They cloud and clutter the path.

• Cut - implies clearing away sin and distractions: bitterness, secret habits, grudges, etc.

  • This is work on our part — though our trust in Christ.

• Strengthen - Straight paths, an environment where weakness is restored, not dislocated, and we are willing to adjust

• Straight paths — consistent, humble, obedient lives—learning from each other.  

• “Come, children of God, do not be despondent because of your tribulations. You are in a race, so run; even while you are smarting from your chastisements, still run, and keep on running until you win the prize.” -Spurgeon

• We all have to participate.