Hebrews 12:1ff Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, ( those mentioned in Hebrews11) let us also lay aside every weight and sin which clings so closely and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus who is the pioneer and perfector of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God…” we all have a life to live and a race to run that is beset with many difficulties, many temptations and many sorrows. Paul is reminding us that the race has been run by countless others. This is encouragement for us to press forward.