The Christian life or the life of faith is described here in Hebrews 12 as a race (vv.1-2). In order to run this race successfully we must lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily obstructs us. Though we are surrounded by so great a cloud of heavenly witnesses who are an encouragement, there are hostile adversaries in this worldly arena who would discourage us from finishing the race. Jesus endured such hostility from sinners and so must we. We must keep our eyes on Him lest we become weary and discouraged in our souls. And remember that those things we suffer, even persecution from adversaries, God brings into our lives to discipline us and make more like Christ (12:3-11).
This suffering, like that endured by a long-distance runner, can take its toll. We can become weak in our resolve to keep going, weary as we wonder if this is ever going to end, and discouraged as we may doubt whether it is worth all this trouble and pain. In this passage, we are encouraged to strengthen the hands which hang down and the feeble knees as we continue down this straightened path pursuing peace with all people (especially adversaries), and holiness without which no one will see the Lord (Heb.12:12-17). We must not forget that others are in this race of faith. We must also care or look out for one another, and always be ready to come along side to encourage and help those who are struggling to continue the race.