They Are Watching Keenly

Daily Devotional – Tuesday, March 14, 2023
Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses…
Hebrews 12:1 (NKJV)

I am an ardent soccer fan but I pity those who play the game. A crowd of home fans and opponents is always in the stadium, watching keenly. Both bad and good moves attract a mix of cheers and jeers from the two sets of fans.

How to Avoid Criticism

This scenario reminds me of an address I gave to a group of Christian youth recently. While addressing the issue of criticism for ungodly behaviour, I noted that the greatest ‘mistake’ we make in this regard is to accept Jesus as personal Saviour and Lord.

Of course, I meant a mistake in the sense of not wanting to be criticized for our words actions. Think of it this way: If the soccer player did not take up the sport, turn professional and enter the field of play, no one would criticize him, let alone notice his presence.

A Great Cloud of Witnesses

When we declare we are Christians, both believers and non-believers begin to hold us to account for our beliefs. Whether directly or indirectly, they will compare our actions with our profession. They will judge us, especially for sins of commission and omission.

While alluding to athletics, Paul implored the Hebrews to be conscious of the crowd that was keenly watching them. He wrote, “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).

They are Observing Attentively

A great cloud of witnesses is observing attentively. Among these are the critical ones, whose sole mission is to point out your mistake, hence finding excuses to ridicule Jesus. Do not give blasphemers room to mock God. Allow the indwelling Holy Spirit to transform your character to reflect the will of God.

Another critical group of observers is that of people genuinely thirsting for God. An anonymous person once said, “The only Jesus some people know is you.” Be the bridge that takes them to Jesus, not the wall that keeps them away. Represent Jesus through your character.

They are Watching Keenly

Other ardent watchers include children, new believers and people who consider you a role model. Determine to be the best representative of Jesus so that those who look for faults in you will find it hard. Lay aside every sin that clings to you and run the race faithfully. They are watching keenly to see Jesus in you.

Prayer
Lord Jesus, a cloud of witnesses is watching keenly how I represent you. Transform my character that I may show forth your light.