November 30, 2016

Encouragement to Keep Going Each Day

Hebrews 12:1-3

Since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us . . . run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus. . .

—  Hebrews 12:1-2

Our month of reflections on thanksgiving and gratitude is coming to a close.

For what are you thankful today? You may have asked this question of others at times. Or maybe you’ll pose it to yourself in the quiet of your reflective prayer.

May I tell you what I’m thankful for—today and every day? Among many other things, I’m grateful for you supporters of ReFrame Media and Back to God Ministries International. Your prayers and generosity make our outreach possible, whether at home or abroad.

Over the years I have met hundreds of our friends and ministry partners. You have inspired me with your kind comments and personal stories. Thank you!

The Bible mentions “a great cloud of witnesses”—heroes of faith—who encourage us with their examples. We are also cheered by many “living saints” in our local churches, extended families, and circles of friends.

The race of faith is different from any other race we might run. Instead of competing with others, we are fighting against our own sinful nature. The only hope we have in order to finish is to fix our eyes on “Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”

Father, we praise you for the examples of faith ­heroes who have run this race before us. Give us strength and perseverance, and help us to focus on Jesus, in whose name we pray. Amen.

About the author — Sergei Sosedkin

Rev. Sergei Sosedkin is the Russian-language ministry leader for ReFrame Ministries. He is a native of Moscow, Russia. As he oversees the Russian-language ministry, Rev. Sosedkin works from our office in Grand Rapids and in various locations in Russia.

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