Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. Hebrews 12:1
There are good benefits acquired from physical running such as boosting energy levels, memory, focus and task-switching, better respiratory functions, improved cardiovascular health; more muscle strength, improved bone density, lower risk of chronic disease and many others. For this to be successful preparations play a major role, such as maintaining a healthy diet, good quality running gear, keeping fit and other necessary requirements.
The analogy of running a race is a great reminder for our spiritual health which is so vital to live a well-balanced Christian life in our busy world. When I do things hurriedly and busyness tends to overtake me, somehow, I end up not doing a good job of something! Isaiah 40:31 says “…. we will run and not be weary”. But this is possible when we take time regularly to wait on the Lord before we endeavor to continue in the race before us. The short distance race is much easier for runners simply because it is faster to complete, but for the long distance race, one needs to have good strategy, perseverance, strength, endurance and whatever else it takes.
We are encouraged to live this life of faith God has called us to with joy, knowing it’s not always easy, but that’s the whole picture. Jesus endured the cross, scorning the shame. May we look to Jesus and wage war on sin as we run the race set before us, longing to see Christ glorified in our lives daily.
We all know that there is always a sense of accomplishment when one completes this race. My friends who run a yearly race tell me that! It doesn’t matter how well you start if you fail to finish the race. Paul wrote in Philippians 3:14, “I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.” Once we say “yes” to Jesus, we are immediately enrolled in this race not as professionals but as dependants on God. He is the one who decides the length of the race for each individual and gives us the grace.
Lord Jesus, I pray that each day this week would count for your glory in my life. Please help me to run this race trusting and focused on you as my goal, aim and treasure. Amen
Reflect on: “the race is not to the swift, nor to the strong but to those who endure to the end” Ecclesiastes 9:11
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