Hebrews 12:1-2
“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.”
Since the passing of my precious wife I have had many people mention that she is watching over me. Is she really? I think not. Stop and think about it for a few minutes. If our loved ones who have gone on to be with the Lord were able to see the things we do, wouldn’t it break their hearts? Since we are told there are no tears in heaven, that in itself would negate our being watched by them.
There are some who are quick to reference today’s Scripture about the vast crowd of witnesses keeping an eye on us. Does it really? Notice that the passage begins with “therefore.” When we see that word we need to find out what it relates to. In the previous chapter, verses 39-40, we read: “And all these, having obtained a good testimony through faith, did not receive the promise, God having provided something better for us, that they should not be made perfect apart from us.”
Witnesses testify to what they have seen or experienced. It is not that our loved ones and saints are looking over the parapets of heaven to scrutinize us—it is their faithful and godly lifestyle that we are to remember.
As you read about the faithful men and women in the Bible or throughout all of history, take courage and never give up. God is in control. WITNESS THEM!
May God richly bless you as you bless others by your words and actions!
– – – Pastor Cecil