Running the race of life

Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary [c]and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3

A share from Dr. Charles Stanley who said it so well (*with a few additions).

The Christian life is often described as a race-—one designed by God. In it, we are called to fulfill His purposes for us. That is, we are to be conformed to Christ’s likeness and bring God glory.

To run the race, we need to know the route. The Bible serves as our map, compass, and guidebook. It is an infallible manual for godly living, which is needed in our culture of contradictory voices, all claiming to be the truth.

To complete the race, we need inspiration and correction.Scripture provides both through the true accounts of biblical personalities. Some of us are like King Saul, who answered God’s call and began the race in strong fashion (1 Sam. 10:9-11)(* but remember he didn't end the race so well); correction is likely if we lose our focus on God’s agenda and become immersed in worldly ways. Others of us are like the apostle Paul, who lived an ungodly life for years before salvation (*he finished the race strong and worthy of the reward). His life inspires us to persevere and to embrace the Lord’s plan with growing passion.

During a race, we will encounter obstacles against which we must persevere. Some of these hindrances might include: criticism from believers and/or unbelievers; opposition to our stand for Jesus; and periods of loneliness and uncertainty when the way isn’t clear. *It will also include pain, injury, hunger, thirst, pain and exhaustion.   *And especially doubt, which will turn into "the wall".   The race will not be easy!!  But  the Holy Spirit strengthens us as we study God’s unchanging character and timeless promises. 

Are you running the race well? How are you responding to pressures along the way? Remember that Christ, who is our very life, always runs with us. And be encouraged through the Scriptures.

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us everything we need to complete the race before us.  When we are tempted to give up, please give us strength through your Holy Spirit and remind us that we are not alone.  Thank you for running this race with us.  In your precious name Jesus, Amen.  

*On a side note,  the "great crowd of witnesses" is composed of people described in Hebrews, Chapter 11 (I urge you to read it). Their faithfulness is a constant encouragement to us.  We do not struggle alone, and we are not the first to struggle with the problems we face.  Others have run the race and won, and their witness should stir us to run and win also.  And, our witness should do the same to help others in their race!!!  Have you told someone today Jesus?  Get running and get to sharing!!