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.—Hebrews 12:1-2

Hebrews 12 describes the Christian life as a race that God has set before us.  According to the BLB, race is the ancient Greek word agona, a word used for conflict or struggle of many kinds.   John MacArthur describes it as an athletic metaphor that presents the faith-filled life as a demanding, grueling effort.  The English word “agony” is derived from the Greek word used here. 

 Life in this fallen world IS a struggle...filled with conflicts and trials.  The author of Hebrews tells us to run our own faith race with endurance.  The word endurance or patience  is translated hupomone in the Greek and means to line up under and remain there.  I am to run this race remaining under all the difficulties and challenges that God brings my way.  I am to stay in the place He has put me and endure by faith trusting that He who called me is faithful and will give me the grace and the strength to get through and to finish well.  I liked the way the BLB’s Outline for Biblical usage described endurance:

“in the NT the characteristic of a man who is not swerved from his deliberate purpose and his loyalty to faith and piety by even the greatest trials and sufferings”

We are to do this, verse 2 tells us, by fixing our eyes on Jesus.  The Amplified  says it this way:

“[ looking away from all that will distract us and] focusing our eyes on Jesus”

I LOVE THAT!  Look away from all that distracts and focus our eyes on Jesus.  Jesus is not only the Author of our faith, but He is also the Finisher.  Look away from everything and unto Him who has promised to complete the good work He began in us.  Our sufficiency for this race is from Him. God is able to make all grace abound toward us so that we, having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work.  

You will keep him in perfect peace,

Whose mind is stayed on You,

Because he trusts in You.

Trust in the LORD forever,

For in YAH, the LORD, is everlasting strength.—Isaiah 26:3-4