Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.

Commentary: The Apostle Paul paints such a vivid image of the impact of sin on our lives and our ability to accomplish our goals. Imagine a runner, entangled in a net or ropes, trying to run. Too often we think of sin as something that stops us from accomplishing something. While that is true, sin also is an encumbrance, forcing us to use much more energy.