1. A huge cloud of witnesses is all around us. So let us throw off everything that stands in our way. Let us throw off any sin that holds on to us so tightly. Let us keep on running the race marked out for us.
2. Let us keep looking to Jesus. He is the author of faith. He also makes it perfect. He paid no attention to the shame of the cross. He suffered there because of the joy he was looking forward to. Then he sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
3. He put up with attacks from sinners. So think about him. Then you won't get tired. You won't lose hope.
4. You struggle against sin. But you have not yet fought to the point of spilling your blood.
5. You have forgotten that word of hope. It speaks to you as children. It says, "My son, think of the Lord's training as important. Do not lose hope when he corrects you.
6. The Lord trains those he loves. He punishes everyone he accepts as a son." (Proverbs 3:11,12)
7. Put up with hard times. God uses them to train you. He is treating you as children. What children are not trained by their parents?
8. God trains all of his children. But what if he doesn't train you? Then you are like children of people who weren't married to each other. You are not truly God's children.
9. Besides, we have all had human parents who trained us. We respected them for it. How much more should we be trained by the Father of our spirits and live!
10. Our parents trained us for a little while. They did what they thought was best. But God trains us for our good. He wants us to share in his holiness.
11. No training seems pleasant at the time. In fact, it seems painful. But later on it produces a harvest of godliness and peace. It does that for those who have been trained by it.