Running A Marathon

I have a good friend who wanted to run a marathon. He began running and training each day. He joined a running group to learn more and to be encouraged. He told me, “There are times I do not feel like running, but I have made a commitment.” He did run the marathon. He did not win, but he finished the race.

The Bible compares our Christian lives to running a course. “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7) Paul gives a powerful declaration of perseverance and faithfulness to serve the Lord. We are told to ‘run in such a way’ that we will obtain the prize. (1 Corinthians 9:24) We are to run with endurance. (Hebrews 12:1) We are to run without stumbling. (Proverbs 4:12) We are to run and not be weary, to keep on by faith with God. (Isaiah 40:31) When Paul said he had finished his course, it was a statement of completing the purpose and his journey of life with the Lord, remaining steadfast unto the finish line.

I think one thing that keeps us going is to please the Lord Jesus, but also the ability to motivate others and encourage them in their run for the Lord Jesus. God uses the act of encouraging others to bring encouragement into our own lives. Next time you are discouraged in your race for God, reach out and encourage a fellow believer in Christ. You both will end up being encouraged.

Charles Swindoll said, “Discouraged people don’t need critics. They hurt enough already. They need encouragement.”

So let me encourage you to focus on your race for the Lord and enjoy each day in your work with Him. God bless you.

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