Losing the Dead Weight
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...Hebrews 12:1 NKJV
One of the biggest threats to our health these days is obesity. In recent years, obesity was officially classified as a disease. No longer simply thought of as a consequence to overeating and inactivity, obesity is now considered to be a disruption to the normal structure and function of the body. In fact, being severely overweight is now considered as much of a threat to the physical health as any other disease such as cancer, heart disease, or diabetes.
Obesity is a disease that we now see in epidemic proportions. The most recent estimates are that 1 out of every 3 adults, and roughly 1 out of every 5 children in this country is obese. We’ve got to shed the extra weight. The reality is that if left unchecked, obesity can lead to chronic disease, infertility and even death.
As it is in the physical, so it is in the spiritual. Just as we tend to pack on the pounds gradually over the years, we slowly accumulate spiritual dead weight as life happens, man fails us, and we miss our mark. But carrying the extra weight of past mistakes, unforgiveness, grudges, or disappointments is sure to lead to disease of the spirit man, the inability to produce, and ultimately spiritual death.
The Word reminds us to lay aside the weight, extra baggage, and burdens that keep us from running this race. Many of us are overweight, out of shape, and trying to run a marathon. Every extra spiritual dead weight of our past that we continue to hold on to makes it harder for us to run this Christian race with victory in our sights. Philippians 3:12-13 tells us that we should leave the past behind, and continue pressing forward towards the mark. Let’s remember to lose the dead weight that continues to hold us back from being at our best physically and spiritually. Set the example and allow others to see you prospering in your physical health, just as your soul prospers (3 John 1:2).
