Run the race

 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

This past weekend my church celebrated Women's Empowerment.  The theme was "Women Running to Win".  Our background scripture was 1 Corinthians 9:24-27.  We had two dynamic guest speakers and there were some things that stood out to me.  One was the admonishment to get in position.  When I think about position, I think about posture.  In a race where runners sprint,  they often get into starting blocks to set their feet right into a position where they can spring into action.  Whereas in a long distance race, the runners angle their body with one forward, again ready to spring into action.  So what is the position of a believer who is running the Christian race?  I believe its one of prayer as our hearts are yielding to God and getting the strength to spring into action.  To put one foot in one of another.

In 1 Corinthians 9:24 it tells us to run in such a way as to get the prize.  You can get the prize if you do not finish the race.  The race we run as believers is not a sprint, but a marathon.  Legs get tired, breathing can become labored, but that's why we train.  We stay in the word so we can get our second wind.  We stay connected to the Spirit so that we can receive strength and power to endure.  We keep our eyes fixed on Jesus.  We remember the those that have come before use and finished the race in faith.  They encourage us to stay strong, to keep moving.  I might be the tortoise, but I will finish the race.

I have been waking up feeling absolutely physically and mentally drained.  I wanted to quit today, but I pressed on and prayed for energy.  I can tell you that walking in the will of God energizes you and reminds you to stay in the race.  As one pastor noted, you have to start the race to run it and as the elders have said "I think I am going to run on to see what the end will be".  I'm laying down fatigue and breathing in Jesus.  I am laying down the lies of the enemy saying I can't do it.  I'm laying down any sin that would add unnecessary weight to me.  I am in position; seeking God's face and wisdom.  I am springing into action.  I aiming to win the prize.   

Lord, I thank You for Your Word that reminds me to run the race and finish strong.  I pray for those that have not yet begun the race, may they enter in relationship with You and gain the best coach ever.  May those of us running the race endure until the end.  May we win the prize.  May our running making an impact on the lives of others.  In Jesus name I do pray.  Amen