Devotionals

Running the Race

by Anne O'Donnell
09/22/20
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RUNNING THE RACE

“…. and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” Hebrews 12:1 NIV

Thoughts of how to run with perseverance were triggered when my daughter ran a half marathon in the city of the university she attended. Not having any previous awareness of her determination to achieve this feat, I admired her tenacity and rejoiced as she crossed the finish line. Her triumphant accomplishment clearly painted a parallel picture of the day we too will cross our own finish line and enter eternity.

Even though I credited myself as a sprint runner in high school, I can’t label my journey through life now as anything but a marathon. Everyday can become an arduous task of following the blue-print Jesus outlines for us in the Bible, knowing our spiritual mindset will determine much of our success. In my own experience, “strict training" sometimes brings hurt beyond description, and the resilience required to keep moving forward brings me to my knees daily, begging God to fill me with an unlimited supply of His strength.

I am convinced God has designed a course that's just mine. I can't run someone else's race, nor do I want to. This compels me to dig deeper into God’s will for my life, knowing my attempt to honor Him reflects the individual He made me to be.

I am thankful God believes in me. Our relationship is intrinsically satisfying to my existence, and propels me to embrace each day with fresh vision.

It is my Savior who sustains me when I grow weary, encourages me when no one else can or will, and stills my restless heart in the midst of uncertainty. He provides hope when hope is gone, and refreshes my supply of perseverance when I ask Him to. He is on the sidelines cheering for me and is forever renewing my resolve to see each new moment as an opportunity to bless His holy name. He perseveres for me, and in my heart, I desire to persevere for my King.