Packing Light

I plan to discuss over the next few weeks some ways that we must prepare in this life for the life to come. It will not be a sequential study as I do not think our preparations have to go in an A, B, C, type of fashion. Many keys to our preparation are highlighted in the book of Hebrews.

Hebrews 12:1-3, Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

In war zones, when threat conditions are high, the military is forced to wear IBA (Individual Body Armor). This body armor includes metal plates across the chest and back along with a Kevlar helmet to protect the head. If called upon to continue normal duties with this armor on, it greatly decreases the amount of work that can be done. Work, rest cycles are implemented and productivity goes way down. The men and women are relieved when the time comes that they are able to cast off the IBA and get back to work in a full capacity.

The Hebrew writer is asking those who are hearing his words to cast off everything that impedes them or slows them down. Get rid of it he says! As we are getting ready to deploy many of us are given the advice to pack light, because what you pack you must carry. Most of us stuff our emotional, mental, and spiritual bags full of things that we should not carry. Things such as: failures, disappointments, struggles, worries, fears, hurt from our past and specific sins that we have difficulty overcoming. These things are extremely heavy and could cause us to buckle, bow out of the race, or keep us from participating fully in life and in the life of Christ.

You have probably heard the cliché, “dump some weight, and you will feel great”. This pertains to us completely as individuals made up of mind, body, and spirit. As we embark on the journey of life long faithfulness to Jesus Christ, it is best that we shed all of the hindrances that would disrupt our relationships (with God, self, and others).

There are a few places that we should unpack our “stuff”. God asks us dump some of it on Him (Matthew 11:28-30, 1 Peter 5:6, 7, Psalm 55:22). We are to have a few individuals that we give permission to speak into our lives and that we trust enough that we can unload some things on them (James 5:16). If you want to live a life of joy, fullness, fruitfulness, and right relationships, remember to pack light!

Next time I will discuss "Preparing to Persever". God bless you all!