How to Run the Race Well

I know that most of you are not fans of running. But God has given us each a race to run. The question is how can we run it well?  Angela welcomes Dr. Whit Jordan—professor, deacon, husband, and father—to discuss one of Scripture’s most encouraging passages: Hebrews 12:1-2. Together, they explore what it means to run with endurance, to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, and to embrace the unique power and grace that Jesus brings. Dr. Whit shares wisdom from his roles as educator, coach, and parent, along with practical encouragement for building a resilient and Christ-centered life.   Episode Highlights The message of Hebrews: “Jesus is better”—better than angels, prophets, priests, and old sacrifices; His completed work and ongoing intercession make Him the ideal focus for our lives. Hebrews 11 provides the backdrop—a “cloud of witnesses” whose faith endured suffering, waiting, and hardship, all pointing to something better that we now have in Christ. Surrounded by witnesses: The faith of Bible heroes and fellow believers inspires and encourages us. Lay aside every weight and sin: Let go of whatever hinders, from greed to bitterness, to the love of money, with the Spirit’s help and wisdom. Run with endurance: Life and faith aren’t sprints but long, sometimes grueling races; perseverance and perseverance in community are essential. Fix your eyes on Jesus: He is both the founder (author) and perfecter (finisher) of faith. His example, endurance, and joy—even through the cross—show us what is possible. Practical real-life applications: From parenting, coaching, and teaching to facing grief and loss, resilience grows through small daily steps—Word, worship, and Christian community. Great Quotes “In Hebrews, Jesus is always better—better than angels, better than Moses, better than the old sacrifices. He’s the better sacrifice, the better way.” “We are surrounded by a cloud of witnesses—not just in the Bible, but from our own faith community—and we need their encouragement to keep running.” “The discipline of showing up in the Word, in worship, and with God’s people sometimes precedes the feeling. Endurance is built over time.” “To run the race, you’ve got to let go of the weight. The things that cling—sin, bitterness, distractions—Jesus calls us to lay them aside for something better.” “Transformation comes through looking to Jesus. We don’t just want to inform minds, but transform souls.” Resources Mentioned Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-2, Hebrews 11, Galatians 5 Website: drwhitbooks.com Instagram/Facebook: @drwhitbooks Related Episodes Ep. 25: Publishing God's Good Works (Crystal Mayo) Ep. 22: God's Gift of All We Need (Susie Crosby)  Ep. 12: Holding Faith Unswervingly (Holly Piorkowski) Life as Worship Newsletter For devotions, small group questions, and updates: Subscribe Here