A new year brings excitement and new beginnings, but it can also bring the temptation to add more to what is already heavy. Before picking up anything new in 2026, we lay down some old things from 2025. Hebrews 12 reminds us that before we fix our eyes on Jesus, there are things that must be laid aside. You cannot run the race God has for you while carrying what slows you down. We are told to lay aside every hindrance and the sin that entangles us. A believer cannot run freely when wrapped up in sin, shame, or old ways of thinking. Conviction is a gift from God, given because He loves us. Strength comes from fixing our eyes on Jesus, who gives the power to overcome and not pick it back up. Satan accuses and reminds us of failure, but Jesus is our advocate who has already paid the penalty. Lay down what is behind, fix your eyes on Jesus, and run the race God has set before you. 

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