Pursue growth every day

“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.” 2 Peter 3:18 NIV

On Sunday, April 4, 26-year-old runner Ruth Chepngetich from Kenya won the N Kolay Istanbul Half Marathon in 1:04:02, breaking the previous world record of 1:04:31 by 29 seconds. This was Chepngetich’s third win of the Istanbul-based race and her fastest time yet; Ruth was so fast, in fact, that she averaged a 4:53 mile and beat her personal record by more than one minute. “I am really happy with this amazing result,” Chepngetich told World Athletics. “The world record is something I have been dreaming about for some time, and I am so happy to do it on the streets of Istanbul.” But this amazing performance would not have been possible without the purposeful efforts Ruth put forth day after day to become better and faster; something you can be sure she will keep on doing if she wants to continue to improve.

And you know, when it comes to continually improving, the Bible urges all believers to "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" -- something that requires us to put forth purposeful effort each and every day to do those things (prayer, Bible study and meditation) that will draw us closer to Him and give us a better understanding of the Word. Why is this so important you might ask? Because continually improving our knowledge of the Truth is the only way that you and I can recognize and refute false teachers and ungodly doctrines, narratives, agendas and ideas; especially now as we draw closer to end days and see these things increasing, even within the walls of many "churches" and out of the lips of many "pastors." 

So knowing that, in the words of Edwin Louis Cole, "knowledge of God's Word is a bulwark against deception, temptation, accusation, even persecution," let us strive to grow in the grace and knowledge of the Truth that we would be prepared to stand for it in the face of any and all circumstances. "To him be the glory both now and forever!"

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us to be on our guard against deceptive people and ideas. Cause us to seek You at all times that we might get to know You better and better so that we would be ready to recognize and call out those things that are contrary to the Word. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

I want to know You - City Alight