“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 NIV
Throughout a gruelling marathon, such as the Comrades Marathon, in this country, a runner’s body goes through changes. They must fight any desire to run too fast early in the race. They must overcome muscle cramps and blisters. They must ignore the whispering voice mid-way through the race that says, “You’ve already done a great job. Everyone is impressed that you even got this far. Why don’t you just quit now?” With every step, the runner reaffirms their decision to keep going and move closer to the finish line. Their eyes are on the goal. They will not be distracted or denied. This is endurance. To endure doesn’t mean to sit back, take it easy, or look for a way out. Endurance also doesn’t mean casually accepting a setback and quitting the race early. Instead, it implies “staying power.” This involves the commitment to do whatever it takes to win. It involves pushing through obstacles and overcoming hindrances, one step at a time, as we keep moving. Endurance means you won’t quit until you have achieved victory. We should keep this image in mind as we read the challenge of today’s text. One who endures says, “Whatever it takes, Lord, I’m going to get there. I will not give up. I will not step off Your path until You’ve brought me to the finish line.” Do you believe the goals God has given you are worth the effort? Then run toward them with endurance.
PRAYER THOUGHT
Lord, we choose to run toward Your goals with endurance.
PRAYER FOR TODAY
Lord, we believe the goals You have given us are worth the effort. So, we choose to run toward them with endurance. AMEN
INTERNATIONAL BIBLE READING ASSOCIATION (IBRA)
Matthew 10:24-42
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