He determines our steps

He determines our steps

"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.  Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.  So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified."  1 Corinthians 9:24-27

I've run many races in my life and, no matter the distance, cause or location, they all have one thing in common.  Each race has a set course,a course all the runners must follow to the finish. Suppose one of the runners decides to pick his own path?  Suppose he completes the mileage precisely but runs through neighborhoods with fewer hills still ending at the same finish line as everyone else?  Even if that runner came in first, he wouldn't win the prize.  He didn't follow the rules.

As believers, we all do the same thing.  We try to decide and run our own course (believing we are in His will) instead of running the race God sets.  By submitting to His will-doing what He says and going where He leads- we remain on the right path (that requires knowing Him-going to Him in prayer every day).  But the moment we take our eyes off Christ, making decisions based on our feelings instead of the Word, we go off course.  Proverbs 16:9 says "In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps." What a reminder that we are not in control!  We can make the grandest plans and set the highest goals, but God determines the outcome.  How much time is wasted going down the wrong path only to have to turn around and follow His!  

Thankfully, no matter who far we get off course, the Holy Spirit is still present to remind us of the right path. And to give us the power and guidance we need to get back on it and keep running.  The route is set and the choice is clear.  Run the race set before you following God's plan so you may finish well and avoid being disqualified.  

Heavenly Father, thank you so much for giving us the instructions on how to run the race-Your word.  May we follow Your will for our lives avoiding the temptations of taking the easy way.  May all we do bring You glory as You give us strength to persevere.  In your precious name we pray Jesus, Amen.  

Happy Running!!!

"But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the 

work assigned me by the Lord Jesus--the work of telling others the

Good News about the wonderful grace of God."  Acts 20:24