We are surrounded!

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,  looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls. You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin.(Hebrews 12:1-4)

We are surrounded!  These are not words many would desire to hear, especially when in battle. However, for the believer, these as words of encouragement and strength, because we are surrounded by a HIStory of successful believers who have already overcome! They are our backup and our confidence that we too will overcome the world and all its challenges. In Christ, we have victory!

Not that I have already attained or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.  Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead,  I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:12-14)

Keep moving forward . . . with confidence! Hear the cheers from above!!!!!