RUNNING TO WIN

Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith . . . (Hebrews 12:1-2)

The Christian life is depicted in Scripture as a race, but a particular kind of race. It is not a sprint--a 100-meter dash--wherein flash and speed are of essence. The Christian life is a marathon in which discipline, determination, and focus are the qualities that will enable you and me to win our race.

In this race we are not competing with one another, and we win by finishing our individual race. The race that is set before us is the unique path/race that God has given you and me to run. It is in running this race that we fulfill our God-given purpose. Your path/race will take you up some steep hills and through some deep valleys. It will lead through smooth terrain and over some rough terrain. It will seem long and grueling at times. Nonetheless, it is a race that you can win if you will keep your focus on Jesus, exercise discipline, and refuse to quit no matter how tough the going seems at times.

So, keep on running with your eyes on Jesus. Lay aside anything and everything that would slow you down. You will surely finish you race with joy.

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever (I Corinthians 9:24-25; NIV).