Which path?

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

If you had to sign up for a race, would you intentionally pick the hardest one? Would you choose the one with the most grueling conditions, no determined finish line, no earthly reward and no fanfare or recognition? Would you run a race that might even cost you your life? Of course you wouldn't. That would be crazy. But when we decide to follow Christ, that's exactly what we do. In Matthew 16:24, "Jesus said to his disciples, "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me."

Being a disciple requires more than just believing in Christ, we have to live for Him every day no matter the cost and no matter how hard it may be.  Doing that is easy when the race is short and life runs moothly. But life is not free from troubles and trials. In fact, one look at the evening news is proof of that. There's no doubt that being a believer will require more commitment than ever before. The bible tells us that we will have trouble in this life but it also tells us that we need not worry because Jesus has overcome the world. 

When the race gets hard, will you give up and take the easy road? Or will you choose to take up your cross and follow him? Only one path will lead you to Heaven. What will you choose?

Heavenly Father, thank you for dying on the cross to save us from our sins. Thank you for promising to be with us through the trials and troubles of this world. Help us to remember that this race will be hard but there is a priceless reward awaiting those who finish it. Give us the strength, Lord, every day to take up our cross and follow you to the end. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

I give you my life - Larry Macon Jr. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-04ejWQ7yo