Run the Race

One of my favorite passages in the Bible has to be in the book of Hebrews.

Hebrews 12:1-3

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, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

Isn't it interesting how the author writes, "let us run?"

I love the way The Message puts it:

"Strip down, start running—and never quit!"

Stay focused. As simple as that sounds, it truly is difficult. Distractions, worldly things and materialistic possessions get in our way and slow us down. The enemy will do anything possible to throw us off course, to mislead us. Try to figure out what is causing you to stumble and what is preventing you from running?

Galatians 5:7-10

You were running superbly! Who cut in on you, deflecting you from the true course of obedience? This detour doesn’t come from the One who called you into the race in the first place. And please don’t toss this off as insignificant.

Remember the main goal: finishing the race and completing the task.

Acts 20:24

However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.

When it comes to this crucial race, we must always keep in mind the ultimate goal, and that all the hard work and suffering will be entirely worth it.

2 Timothy 4:7-8

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

1 Corinthians 9:24-25

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.