The Spotlight Belongs to God

“Not to us, LORD, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.” Psalm 115:1 NIV

In a story titled “Sawe and Alemu Steal the Spotlight at the Valencia Marathon” published yesterday, it was reported that Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe made a historic marathon debut at the Valencia Marathon Trinidad Alfonso, finishing in a world-leading time of 2:02:05. His remarkable run ranks as the fifth-fastest marathon in history and is just 12 seconds short of the best-ever debut set by Kelvin Kiptum. In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Megertu Alemu claimed victory in 2:16:49, narrowly missing her personal best by just 15 seconds. Alemu later said “The cheers from the crowd gave me strength to finish strong.”

And, you know, when it comes to giving credit where credit is due, you and I would to well to remember that the only way we can ever “finish strong” is because of the Lord giving us the strength to do so rather than the cheers of strangers. You see, all of our gifts and abilities come from God. And because of that, they are to be used by us to point others back to God—something we fail to do when we accept the spotlight placed on ourselves by the world. Which is the very reason we are to always say, “To God be the glory” when we achieve success of any kind. This not only reminds us that we can do nothing of lasting value without Christ, but inspires others to seek the One who inspires this allegiance. 

So refuse to take any of God’s glory by keeping the spotlight on Him rather than on yourself my friend. Acknowledge God as the giver of your talents and gifts at all times and you’ll “finish strong” in the end. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that all we are and all we have comes from You to be used in service to You. Help us to always keep the spotlight on You Lord so that people would acknowledge and seek You. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!