As we step into a new year, many of us are reflecting on how to renew our focus on the Bible and Christ. The author of Hebrews encourages us to do just that and in Hebrews: 12:1-2 says, 

“And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. 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.” 

Drawing from the context of the early Jewish Christians, who faced spiritual immaturity and persecution, let’s unpack Hebrews 12:1-2, and how this ancient wisdom applies to us today. 

Based on this passage, here are six actionable tips for keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus in the New Year. 

1. Train Your Mind to Know God’s Word – The early Hebrew Christians were described as spiritually immature, needing to return to the basics of God’s revelation (Hebrews 5:11-14). To keep our eyes on Jesus, we must actively train our minds to understand and apply Scripture. This means regularly engaging with the Bible, studying its context, and letting it shape our perspective. A well-trained mind helps us discern truth and stay anchored, especially when life gets tough.

2. Fix Your Eyes on What Is Unseen – Focus on the eternal rather than the temporary (2 Corinthians 4:16-18). The Hebrew Christians endured persecution with joy because they knew their true reward was an eternal home with Jesus (Hebrews 10:34). By shifting our gaze from fleeting troubles—like health, possessions, or circumstances—to the unseen promise of eternity, we find strength to persevere.

3. Look Forward to God’s Promises – Heroes of faith like Abraham, Joseph, and Moses (Hebrews 11) kept their eyes on God’s promises, even when the journey was uncertain or painful. Abraham left home without knowing his destination, Joseph trusted God’s deliverance despite enslavement, and Moses chose faith over fear in his circumstances. Their focus on God’s eternal promises—our heavenly home in His presence—reminds us to live with hope, knowing this life is temporary.

4. Lay Aside Hindrances and Sin – Hebrews 12:1 urges us to “lay aside every hindrance and the sin that so easily ensnares us.” Sin, described as a “fleeting pleasure” (Hebrews 11:25) and a force that entangles, distracts us from Jesus. Like a runner shedding extra weight, we must identify and let go of habits, distractions, or sins that pull us away from our faith, trusting Jesus to guide us through the battle against our sinful nature (Romans 7:15-25).

5. Remember Jesus Is the Perfecter of Your Faith – Hebrews 12:2 calls Jesus the “source and perfecter” of our faith, meaning He not only initiates our faith but also brings it to maturity (Philippians 1:6). This is a relieving truth: our faith doesn’t depend on OUR perfection but on Jesus’ commitment to us. 

6. Gather Together and Encourage One Another – The phrase “let us” in Hebrews 12:1 and 10:24-25 highlights the communal aspect of faith. We’re not running this race alone. The early Christians were encouraged to gather, provoke love, and support each other, especially under pressure. Surrounding ourselves with a faith community provides accountability and encouragement, helping us stay focused on Jesus.

These six tips are just the starting point for keeping your eyes on Jesus in the new year. For a richer exploration, check out the full episode 101 of The Chara Project podcast.