Bible Verses that Resonate With Me

I have long found these two verses powerfully affecting:

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
(Hebrews 12:1-2, NIV)

I sense a proper paraphrase might be:

Look, there's been a whole bunch before us who've done this. Yeah, I know it's hard but it's not impossible. So make the commitment in your mind and your heart and go as if this was a long race. Don't get discouraged early. Pace yourself, don't give up ... be patient and diligent. Need something to motivate you? Take a look at Jesus. He's the model. By comparison to what he endured, our challenges are minor. Plus, he's there to help us. Doubt that? Remember who is is and where he is right now.

Next year I'll probably see even more depth to the two verses. That's the beauty of the Bible ... the layers go down and down. There's significance and depth in nearly everything.

Grace and peace, brother.