Sometimes life can feel like one huge marathon. You’re running and running with no end in sight and you’re getting weary. Maybe you’d like to sit on the sidelines for a while and just catch your breath. There always seems to be one hurdle after another and you don’t think you can make it over one more.
It’s times like these that we need our coach to come alongside us and champion us. And you know something? He’s ready and waiting. Waiting to remind you that you’re not in this race alone. He will guide you as your faith deepens. He’s providing for you each step of the way.
It’s important that we don’t lose heart and stay sidelined forever. There are many people watching our lives and our actions, and we want to be solid representatives of God’s kingdom here on earth. We want to be examples of the hope life holds when you live in step with the Lord.
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us…” (Hebrews 12:1 NIV)
“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2 BSB)
These verses in Hebrews paint such a picture of running the race of life and fixing our eyes on Jesus. He is the One who perfects our faith when we are running on empty. He helps strengthen our belief when our stamina is fading. He is right alongside us as we jump hurdle after hurdle. And He will be with us at the end of our earthly race to welcome us home to heaven, saying, well done my good and faithful servant.
So whatever you’re facing in your race to the finish line, know this… You’re not alone. God is cheering you on. Christ is with you each step of the way. And you’re in good company of other runners like yourself. So steady on, my friend. Keep on running with perseverance the race God has called you to.
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith…
Hebrews 12:2