Devotion for October 22, 2008

Keep Running

“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares [us], and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of [our] faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.” (Hebrews 12:1-3 NKJV)

They say those who run in a marathon hit the wall about mile 20 and that is where the real race begins. The wall is that point in the race when everything says to the runner stop running now. You’re not going to make it; you’re not going to win; it’s not worth it; and numerous other thoughts flood the mind imploring it to stop the torturous pounding.

The Christian life is a lot like a marathon. Believers can be sure when those who ran before them were being fed to the lions and sawn asunder they too had to push through the wall. That terrible night when He was sweating great drops of blood Jesus faced the wall for we know He was tempted in all ways as we are yet without sin. Therefore, He prayed not My will but your will be done speaking to the Father.

Where are you in your marathon? Have you hit the wall? Well if you have keep running! As the author of Hebrews encourages, look unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith. He endured the cross for you knowing of the joy that was set before Him.

This may help you for the exhortation is not to look at Jesus as to say He could do it why can’t you. Instead of saying, “buck up”, it is saying look at His example of enduring for a future joy. Think about the joy set before you.

The greatest temptation you will likely face is the temptation to fall away when your life is on the line. However, if you remain faithful, when they take your life you will be ushered into the presence of God to remain there forever. What a blessed thought that is!

Therefore, whatever physical struggles, whatever sins must be put off, whatever challenges you must face keep your focus on the prize. Then it might be a little easier to push through the wall and finish the race.

One more thing, when you look to Jesus, don’t just look to Him as an example. Look to Him for your source of grace and faith. He knows what is required to remain steadfast. Let Him speak to your heart when you feel like giving up.

“Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.” (1 John 5:21 NKJV)