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Dr. Ronald Powell
This Week's Message
The Baggage that Weighs Down (Part 1)
Key Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-3
1Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set beforeus,2 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 is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.
I. Introduction: If you've ever travelled on an airplane, you know baggage can be an issue.
However, have you ever considered how the intangible baggage of past experiences or personal sin hinders your journey with Christ?
Hebrews 12:1-3 compares the Christian life to a race and encourages us to "lay aside" those things that block our progress.
II. Hebrews 12:1 uses two different words to describe those things that slow us down and create obstacles in our lives.
A. Encumbrance. This is anything that keeps us from effectively living the Christian life. Although encumbrances come in many forms, the common ones that cause believers to stumble are:
1. A poor self-image. Negative comments can cause us to doubt our value.
2. A defeatist attitude. If we think we're beaten by our circumstances, we'll never try.
3. Feelings of rejection. Being devalued by others is painful and leaves us feeling unworthy.
4. Perfectionism. If we think everything must be done flawlessly, we won't take risks.
5. A fear of failure. We'll miss wonderful opportunities from God if we let anxiety hinder us.
6. Procrastination. Putting off tasks keeps us from accomplishing our goals.
7. A lack of self-control. If we can't control our impulses, we're easily persuaded and led off track.
8. A lack of concentration. When our minds drift, we can't accomplish much.
9. A negative attitude. Pessimism has a negative impact on our work and relationships.
10. A suspicious attitude. Being suspicious of others' motives keeps us from accepting love and friendship.
11. Indecision. An inability to make decisions prevents us from progressing.
B. Sin. The second hindrance is "the sin which so easily entangles us" (Heb. 12:1). This does not mean sin in the general sense of the word, but instead refers to a specific one. For each of us:
1. It's our primary area of weakness.
2. It's one we must continually guard against because it tempts us most.
3. It's difficult to resist and frequently ensnares us.
4. It divides our mind when we think about it.
5. It hinders our relationships with others.
6. It surfaces when we pray.
7. It strikes at our self-respect.
8. It hinders our relationships with God.
Conclusion: The Lord has planned the best race for each of us. However, we can't win and fulfill His plan until every hindrance is laid aside. We don't have to carry baggage and continue failing in our efforts to overcome the sins in our lives. God will set us free if we'll believe Him, and by faith in the power of the Holy Spirit, make a conscious choice to do away with whatever is displeasing to Him.
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