Discipline in a Long-Distance Race
Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we’d better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now he’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls! (Hebrews 12:2-3 MSG)
REFLECTION
When deadlines loom large and commitments call us to prayerfully persist (despite disappointments and unexpected challenges), we can confidently cry out to our compassionate Creator for wisdom, courage and strength to follow through in a way that honours Him and helps others.
I’ve found that as I prioritise praying and pondering God’s Word – at the start of a new day – I’m more sensitive and responsive to God’s guidance throughout the day. We are created beings and our caring Creator gives us every breath we take. He has also given us free will, so let’s choose to stay close to Him. Why wouldn’t we want to be close to the perfect One, who knows and loves us best? Why wouldn’t we want His perfect wisdom? Why would we want to wander?
Let’s fix our focus on Jesus – the author and perfector of our faith (see Hebrews 12:2 NIV) – as we follow through in faith, hope and His unfailing love.
PRAYER POEM
Loving Lord, every breath I take is a glorious gift of Your amazing grace. Help me perpetually pursue You and run the race You’ve called me to, until I cross that final finish line and see You face to face in that perfect place of glory and grace.
