Go the distance
Don't you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! (1 Corinth 9:24)
We all know that if we stop early, not going the full distance, we cannot win a race. But what is distance? To one it is several miles or to another just one step is great effort. Maybe it is a deadline or lessons unfinished for school the next morning. Maybe it is an early morning of detasseling corn but all that can be seen are fields with no end.
With no stumbling blocks in the way the distance to the finish line seems within reach. Yet, when challenged, that same length can become long and difficult. Sometimes hopeless.
What are those things that hinder? Physical situations hamper along the way but then there are also obstacles we cannot see that can bring the most hindrances. Scripture encourages to "strip off every weight that slows us down and run the distance with endurance." (Hebrews 12:1) Possibly, those weights are imaginations or fears, bringing a challenge just to see the path, let alone run it.
We can be inspired by those who have run before us. King David had to encourage himself, maybe that is our answer. It takes only a little effort to say, "If they can do it, so can I!" And the more we say it, the more we believe these powerful words. Before long the finish line appears and we become the winner!
Sound too simple? Not if we look at Paul as an example when he also encouraged himself, "For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength." (Philippians 4:13)
What if the Lord draws us to the side and says, you had a chance to paint with the gift I gave you. You had a chance to write poems and stories and prayers with the gift I gave you. You had a chance to write the music of Heaven with the gift I gave you. You were empowered with my Holy Spirit to do anything you wanted, but you did not try.
Think on these encouraging words from the scriptures. "So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong. (Hebrews 12:12-13)
Janie is a staff writer for the Greene County Daily World. She can be reached at thewritedifference@outlook.com.
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