Run Unhindered

by Melissa Sharp

“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 

A Story of Endurance

In a story titled, “Ultra-marathon runner finishes two hours ahead of pack”, published by BBC News, it was reported that a Scottish ultra-runner finished so far ahead in a 100-mile race that she was already home before the rest of the field crossed the line.

Anna Rutherford ran the inaugural Rat Race between Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland and Edinburgh Castle in 17 hours and 23 minutes—more than two hours ahead of the closest male competitor. She explained that she only overtook the leader about halfway through; which meant she ran the final 50 miles entirely by herself. When she crossed the line, she was not only two hours ahead of the first male, but five hours ahead of the first female.

To put this into perspective: the average finishing time for a 100-mile run is about 28 hours. Even finishing between 20–24 hours will place someone in “superstar” territory. Her time was extraordinary.

Throwing off weights.

In order for Anna to finish with such speed, she had to “throw off everything” that could slow her down—whether physical fatigue, the temptation to quit, or the fear of running alone. 

This same principle applies to us in the Christian life.

The writer of Hebrews tells us to “lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us.” (Hebrews 12:1) Notice there are two categories here:

1. Sin — which entangles, distracts, and enslaves.
2. Weights — things not sinful in themselves, but still hindrances that sap our energy, focus, and endurance.

It could be unhealthy habits, toxic relationships, misplaced priorities, or even simple distractions. These “weights” may not break God’s law, but they slow us down and keep us from running effectively in race He has marked out for us.

The cloud of witnesses.

Running a long race alone can be intimidating. Yet, as believers, we are never truly alone. Hebrews 12 reminds us that we are “surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses.”

This cloud refers to the faithful saints described in Hebrews 11—men and women who endured trials, persecution, and loss, yet remained steadfast in their faith. They serve as living testimonies that perseverance is possible, and victory in Christ is certain.

When you feel like giving up, remember their example: Abraham, who waited years for God’s promises; Moses, who endured rejection and wilderness wandering; Rahab, who turned from her past and trusted God. They are now “cheering us on” by their testimony, reminding us that the race is worth running to the end. So are, too, the born again loved ones who have gone before us.

The Christian life is not a sprint—it’s a marathon. Like Anna Rutherford, we are called to press forward mile after mile, often through lonely and difficult stretches, with our eyes fixed on the finish line.

But unlike Anna, we do not run in isolation. Jesus Himself has promised, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5) God has provided not only His Spirit but also the encouragement of those who have gone before us, proving that by supernatural faith we can endure.

My friend, keep running with endurance, strip away the weights—Jesus runs beside you, and Heaven is at the finish line.

Reflection thought:

What “weight” is holding you back from running freely after Christ? Remember, the race is not run in your own strength, but in the power of the One who goes with you every step.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, Thank You that in Christ we are never alone. You have surrounded us with examples of faith from those who have gone before us, and You Yourself run beside us in every trial. Help me to lay aside every sin and weight that slows me down. Teach me to run with endurance, keeping my eyes fixed on Jesus until I reach the finish line. And may my life of perseverance inspire others to run faithfully as well. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Happy Running!

Melissa Sharp is an ultra runner and running coach who has completed more than 100 marathons and ultra marathons. Melissa has learned how to keep running the race of life for the glory of Christ even though she endured decades of domestic abuse. Melissa is a survivor. Through her daily blog thejoyfilledrunner she inspires others to live in the strength of Christ.