Show a pattern of consistency

"Likewise, exhort the young men to be sober-minded, in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility," Titus 2:6,7 NKJV

In an article published by Runners World yesterday titled, “Aleksandr Sorokin Shatters the 24-Hour World Record,” the following was reported: Lithuanian ultrarunner Aleksandr Sorokin shattered his own 24-hour world record over the weekend, logging 198.599 miles (319.614 kilometers) to win the 2022 IAU 24-Hour European Championships in Verona, Italy. He averaged 7:15 per mile for 24 hours on a track to break his record of 192.251 miles from last year. And if Sorokin’s pace consistency over the course of 24 hours didn’t impress you, consider this… Sorokin, who turns 41 this month, has rewritten the ultrarunning record books in recent years. He has set world records for 100-kilometers (6:05:41, 5:53 mile pace), 100 miles (10:51:39, 6:31 mile pace) and 12 hours (110.24 miles, 6:32 mile pace) in the past year. Is that amazing or what? This pattern of consistency should be what every runner strives to achieve.

And you know, when it comes to patterns that are reliable, regular, steady and unchanging, Paul urged believers to show themselves as patterns of “good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility...” Paul was telling Titus, and us, that we must be consistent, persistent, and intentional in doing good deeds and setting a good example of what it means to be men and women of integrity, reverence, and incorruptibility so that we would be taken seriously by those we are trying to exhort to do the same. You see, if you and I want someone to act a certain way, we must live that way ourselves. It's only by living a life of righteousness then that we will earn the right to be heard and inspire others to draw closer to Christ. 

So vow to live a life worthy of following my friend--a life marked by a pattern of consistency that seeks to honor God and bring Him glory in all that you do and say. You'll not only influence those in your household to imitate this behavior but those around you as well. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that running the race with consistency not only helps us make it to the finish line but to inspire others to run alongside us. Lord, help each of us to show ourselves "to be a pattern of good works" and to honor You with our speech, thoughts, and actions so that we would inspire others to do the same. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!