How do we keep going? When we're bogged down, discouraged by the state of the world or, perhaps, our own circumstances, where do we go to muster the faith to continue to grow?

We look back.

What's the "therefore" there for in Hebrews 12:1? This is a unique "therefore," occurring only one other time in the New Testament. It's, perhaps, a "therefore" of exasperation. The Hebrews Hall of Faith is not just some boring list of old names that are dead and turning into dust in some grave—they're evidence.

We have so many men and women of faith who have gone before us, who believed in something they didn't see and are now witnesses. Therefore: look back. Consider the evidence. Lay aside every encumbrance. Consider Him who endured the greatest hostility against Himself by sinners so that you and I will not grow weary and lose heart.

This sermon was originally recorded at Mood Bible Institute's Founder's Week in 2007 at the Moody Church in Chicago, IL.