The title

"Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses; in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger;" 2 Corinthians 6:4,5

I had the honor of watching my good friend compete in an Ironman competition last weekend. To claim the coveted title of "Ironman", he and 2800 other participants, had to swim 2.4 miles in the Ohio River, bike 112 miles and then complete a marathon (26.2 miles) before the cutoff time of 16 hours. They all entered the water full of hope and determination to finish but, with each hour, the task became more difficult and many dropped out of the race. Those that finished were hungry, hurting and tired beyond belief decorated with cuts, wounds, bruises and bandages. But, by pressing on through the "troubles, hardships and distresses", they claimed the prize. 

To claim the coveted title of "Servant of God" requires the same type of dedication from us. We must commit or give "ourselves in every way: in great endurance, in troubles, hardship and distresses; in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger.." This is not a race to be taken lightly. We must train daily in the Word, and prepare ourselves through prayer, just as an athlete trains his body. And when it becomes difficult, we must press on. 

Perhaps you feel like dropping out of the race today? If you're tired, hungry or hurting, won't you find strength in his Word and press on to the finish?

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us the strength we need each and every day. Help us to remember that we are not alone in this race and that you will guide the way if we would only seek you and read your Word. Helps us to commit ourselves everyday to win the title of a "servant of God". It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Press on - Mandisa

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FNHsY93VrO8