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<v SPEAKER_00>Have you ever considered how important community is to God?

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<v SPEAKER_00>All throughout scripture, we read about practicing of our faith in community, and it's a reminder that God doesn't expect us to walk alone in our faith.

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<v SPEAKER_00>Today we're going to read Hebrews 12, 1 and 2.

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<v SPEAKER_00>These verses talk about endurance in our faith.

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<v SPEAKER_00>But notice the communal language used, and then notice the example Jesus sets for us, who has modeled endurance for us in a beautifully sacrificial way.

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<v SPEAKER_00>Hebrews 12, 1 and 2 says, 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.

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<v SPEAKER_00>And let us run with perseverance, the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.

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<v SPEAKER_00>For the joy set before him, he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

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<v SPEAKER_00>Let's start this time of prayer by thanking God that you are not running this race alone.

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<v SPEAKER_00>Praise him for the cloud of witnesses who have gone before you and for the people walking beside you today.

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<v SPEAKER_00>Is there a weight or sin that has been slowing your steps?

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<v SPEAKER_00>Bring that before Him right now.

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<v SPEAKER_00>You endured the cross for the joy set before you.