Be happy about it

"Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way." Matthew 5:12 NLT

If you've ever run a hard 10k, especially one on a mountainous course that scaled almost 1,000 feet of elevation throughout six miles, you probably didn’t have the energy to do much more than give a thumbs-up as you crossed the finish line. Which makes what Albusaidi Yousuf did at the end of the UTMB 10k race held in the Al Hajar Mountain range on November 29 all the more impressive. Not only did Yousuf complete this challenging trail run with a smile on his face but was so excited to be finished that he performed multiple back handsprings before ending with a backflip over the finish line. Talk about somebody rejoicing to be done!

And you know, when it come to rejoicing, the Bible tells us that we should "be happy" when we are subject to hostility or ill treatment because of our belief in Jesus Christ. In fact, we are told to "be very glad!" remembering that "the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way." And while staying joyful in the midst of persecution, or being ridiculed for our faith, might be hard, remembering that we have "a great reward” - a reward so great in fact that we too will be doing numerous backflips and back handsprings when we cross that final finish line - awaiting us in heaven should have us smiling and exceedingly motivated to press on.

So if you find yourself in the midst of a trial, experiencing deep sorrow or even being persecuted for what you believe in, hang in there my friend! This life shall soon pass and you and I will be with the Savior forever. And doesn't the thought of that make you want to jump for joy?

Heavenly Father, thank You for your Word that promises us that no pain we experience in this life will be in vain. Help us to be happy and glad in every situation knowing that our suffering is short compared to the time we will spend with You in heaven, which is the greatest reward we could ever receive for pressing on and finishing the race You have called us to run. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Almost Home - MercyMe