Motivation

We all need motivation at some point in our lives. Most of us desire to live healthy lives but lack the motivation. It is just easier to sit on the couch, eat Twinkies, and drink Pepsi all day while watching the newest talk show. Some desire a better paying job, with better hours and benefits, yet are unwilling to update a resume and hit the pavement. I’m sure more examples could be used, but you get my point. For the tough things in life, or just the things that we don’t particularly want to do, it takes motivation to get us to move.

When it comes to exercising and getting fit, a good friend who will nag us about getting into the gym and watching our diet is good motivation. The same way with chores around the house, mowing the yard, etc. takes a good wife to, well the same thing the friend does.

The same is true when it comes to the spiritual. At times we all need some motivation. This is what Hebrews chapter 12 is all about. In the days when this was written many were being persecuted just for proclaiming to be a follower of Jesus: many lost friends, jobs, homes, and even their lives. You can imagine that they would need motivation to keep on keeping on.
The writer begins in chapter 12 reminding the readers that all around us are wonderful examples of those who suffered and still suffer for the cause of Jesus. Look at them, let them be your motivation to keep running the race. Look at the one who has been disowned and yet will not give up following Jesus. Look to the one who has been beaten and lost all their earthly possessions, but still will not deny Christ. Look to them and let them motivate you not to give up, but to run with endurance.

These are all notable examples to look to, but the author takes us to the great motivator Himself. Hebrews 12:2 says, “Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” If we need motivation to continue our Christian race, then look to the One who died on the cross so that we all could receive eternal life. Listen to all that He endured for you and me. If Jesus is willing to do that for me and you, how can we lie around and whine about life?

Life is tough, but we have Jesus on our side. He promised that He would always be with us, how could we even possibly hint at giving up on our Lord? Jesus stayed faithful to the Father’s plan and let us have the same heart and mind, and when you begin to doubt, when you begin to feel down, look to the Greatest Motivator, King Jesus.