Run the Race
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the Champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting Him, He endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now He is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.
Hebrews 12:1-2 (NLT)
How’s your pace?
Certainly, you’re busy. Some things must get done this time of year. Christmas is nearly here, and time is running out to get it all done! You may find yourself moving at a frantic and unsustainable pace. Mary rested at the feet of Jesus, but Martha was busy. Not doing evil or wicked things—just busy. Being busy leads to burnout. So again—how’s your pace?
We’re called to run the race set before us with endurance. This isn’t a 40-yard dash or a 5K. It’s a marathon. We do want to be able to run well, so that means getting rid of anything that slows us down. Note that the writer of Hebrews says especially the sin. That means the sin needs to go, but there may be other, non-sinful things that are slowing us down and inhibiting us from running the race God has set before us.
The only way we can do this is to keep our eyes on Jesus. To keep Him at the center. Recall Peter walking on the water to Jesus. He was fine until he began looking at the wind and waves. He took his eyes off Jesus and began to sink (see Matthew 14:22-33).
So where are you fixing your eyes? That will have a direct impact on your pace and your ability to run this race well.
How can you keep your eyes on Jesus? Prioritize His Word, time for prayer, Christian fellowship, worship through song, and practice the Sabbath. These are some helpful starting points—but there are many more. Take the first step and then see where He leads.
Application
Take at least five minutes to sit silently—no devices to distract. Breathe deeply. Ask God to speak to you about the pace of your race. Ask Him to reveal anything that might be slowing you down. Commit to practicing spiritual disciplines this week.
Prayer
Lord,
Help me avoid being so busy that I miss making time for You. You are the reason for the Christmas season. Help me keep You at the center of it. Grant me supernatural Holy Spirit endurance as I run the race You’ve set before me.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?