“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.” (Hebrews 12:1 NLT)
There is a truism in competition that says essentially: “You can’t compete unless you enter; and you can’t win unless you finish the race.” Implicit in the idea of staying the course as a believer in Jesus is your willingness to enter the race of faith, and with determination, conviction, and trust to see it through to completion – to finish your course.
One of my favorite movies is Chariots of Fire, which chronicles the story of Eric Liddell who loved Jesus, but who also loved to run. On one occasion he was deliberately knocked down but rose again to win the race. It’s an inspiring story of a young man who had strong convictions that enabled him to be used mightily by God.
What’s slowing you down in your race? Is there a specific sin that “so easily trips (you) up?” Perhaps it’s a person who consistently becomes your “thorn in the flesh?” Someone who, by their attitude, words, or even their presence, tears you down or discourages you, resulting in slowing you down in your race for the Lord.
Two issues that have helped me stay the course for Jesus. First, I’m not seeking to please anyone but Him. He’s the reason I’m in the race, He’s my partner as I race, and the One who waits for me at the end of my race. But the other key factor that helps me in my life’s race is keeping my focus on MY race, not being distracted by anyone else’s race.
Ironically, in the race of faith in which we run as a child of God, our efforts to win the prize God has for us isn’t between us and any other human being. We’re not in competition with any other believer. Our race is to be the best we can be, not better than anyone else. What are the implications?
Since we have no compulsion to beat another believer, we can freely help them, as they help us. Our battle is to be the best we can be in our efforts to defeat the enemy of our soul, thus, freeing us to support a fellow runner who may be struggling.
When I was younger, I was much more competitive, thereby robbing me of opportunities to be of help or support to others whom I may have seen as my competition. On some levels I believed if I helped someone else accomplish something that resulted in their receiving recognition, it set me back or robbed me of my rightful place in the spotlight.
Gratefully, the Lord has helped me to see that He’s my audience and the only recognition I desire is His smile. As a result, I can freely and often encourage others in their race. The Lord has given me the opportunity and privilege of writing notes of encouragement to different ones He lays on my heart, especially my Pastors.
Where are you in your race? What is the Lord teaching you? Who in your spheres of influence needs a word of encouragement? One of the most effective ways to be encouraged is by encouraging someone else. Often in our efforts to push our kids or close friends to do better in some way, we end up missing opportunities to let them know how far they’ve come.
As you focus on Jesus in the pursuit of your finish line of faith, please don’t miss those along your way who need a helping hand, a kind word, or a pat on the back. We’re in this race together, and the more we give – praise, encouragement, affirmation, the more we receive those things from the Lord.
Food for thought.
Blessings, Ed 😊
Walking With Jesus 