Being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. Colossians 1:11-12
Life is a marathon, not a sprint. I’ve a friend who, as a child, wondered why adults always walked. In contrast, she joyfully ran everywhere and promised herself she’d continue running once an adult.
Sadly the ageing process had its way, and childhood pledges made way for adult realities.I’ve never been a sprinter. I was always a middle-distance runner. Rather than explosive speed, I build up and endure the greater distance.
I believe that to navigate the Christian life we must be long-distance runners. The challenge is completing the race, and here pace counts for everything.
Before ever running in competition, I remember pounding the school track with my trainer timing me, checking my pulse rate at the start and conclusion of each circuit, teaching me to manage my energy better. He also taught me never to envisage the finish until I hit the final bend. It was also important I ran my race and no-one elses.
In the Christian life, each of us needs a race plan and the perseverance to complete the course. Good news! All such resources are made freely available in Jesus. Yet, so much will depend on my mood and mindset.
I must take responsibility and manage myself effectively. I can’t just expect to do well. Running also taught me that sacrifice was required if I was to compete effectively.
With the Holy Spirit as our trainer, we will discover how to run our life’s race well. There will be times when injury precludes us from full participation. Yet, when we treat injuries appropriately we recover, ready to participate once again.
Something to Consider: Are you ready to get fit for the race of your life?
An Action to Take: Consult a book to grow in relationship with God and race for Jesus.
A Prayer to Make: ‘Lord, strengthen me so I might persevere through my life’s race.’
Photo by Jonathan Chng on Unsplash
Used with Permission
