“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 12:2).

I love how this verse compares the Christian life to running a race. It’s not a sprint; it’s a marathon. It’s not about how fast you start; it’s about how strong you finish. You’ve got to be focused, determined, and ready to endure. But here’s the key: to run your best race, you have to let go of the weight.

Think about a runner preparing for a marathon. They don’t show up wearing a backpack full of rocks. They don’t lace up heavy boots or layer on bulky clothes. No, they strip down to the essentials—lightweight shoes, breathable gear, everything designed for speed and endurance. Some even shave their heads to reduce resistance! Why? Because every ounce matters. The lighter they are, the faster and farther they can go.