Key Ideas
Faith Fact
Jesus loves the world.
Faith Verse
John 3:16 (NLT)
“For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.”
Question of the Day: How is living as a Christian like a race?
Read about It
Read: Hebrews 12:1–3
Have you ever seen someone after they’ve run a long race? Typically, they look like they could just collapse at any moment. They have put every bit every bit of energy they have into finishing as high in the standings as they can. Often, they are out of breath, sweating heavily, tired, and hungry.
When Jesus sacrificed His life on the cross, He gave everything He had to do what was required to pay for our sins. He didn’t care what He looked like or what it cost Him. He willingly sacrificed His life for us because He loves us. He knew that because of His sacrifice, we would be able to have a relationship with God and have eternal life with Him in heaven. Knowing that should keep us pressing on to finish the race that God has set before us.
Talk about It
Question 1. Who is the champion of our faith?
Answer 1. Jesus (Hebrews 12:2)
Question 2. What did Jesus have to endure when He was living here on earth?
Answer 2. The cross, hostility from sinful people (Hebrews 12:2–3)
Question 3. What does “run with endurance” mean to you?
Answer 3. Answers will vary.
Question 4. What are some things that slow you down or trip you up in your relationship with God?
Answer 4. Answers will vary.
Question 5. What do you need to do to take off those things and run the way God desires?
Answer 5. Answers will vary.
Pray about It
Jesus, thank You for living a perfect life and being an example for us of how to live. Help me to run the race You’ve set before me with everything in me. Help me to get rid of the things in my life that slow me down and trip me up. Amen.