“Since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up.” Hebrews 12:1.

I heard about a great concert violinist who was asked about the secret to her great performances.

She answered, “Planned neglect. Anything that would keep me from practicing and playing well must be neglected.”

I think that some of us could use some planned neglect in our lives-
– because there is a lot more junk in them than we may realize.

We take on things we don’t need.
Periodically, we needed to jettison this excess weight and let it go.

The Bible says that God, by His divine power, “has given us everything we need for living a godly life.” 2 Peter 1:3.

The Bible also tells us to lay aside the weight and the sin that hinders our progress. Hebrews 12:1.

Notice the distinction:
We aren’t just to lay aside the sin; we also are to lay aside the weight.

Does it speed me on my way in this race I am running?
Or is it a weight — something that slows me down?

David had the right idea when he prayed: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalm 139:23-24.

(PR)