What does it mean that we are to lay aside every weight in Hebrews 12?

In Hebrews 12:1, believers are instructed to 'lay aside every weight and the sin which doth so easily beset us.' This command signifies the need for a conscious effort to identify and remove distractions and burdens that might impede our spiritual progress. While the immediate focus is on sin, the broader interpretation includes anything that might draw us away from our commitment to Christ—especially unbelief, which is often a subtle yet significant hindrance to our perseverance. By casting aside these weights, believers can run with patience the race set before them, trusting in the sufficiency of Christ for both their righteousness and strength.