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.
Hebrews 12:2

A while back, Outside magazine ran an article on the best running tips of all time, based on forty years of articles. Among the suggestions were:

            1. Strengthen your whole body; don’t just focus on your legs. 

            2. Run more hills; it’s good for your hips. 

            3. Find a routine, then stick to it—maybe even down to wearing the same clothing. 

            4. Take recovery days seriously.

Interestingly, if you think about it, all of those suggestions are true spiritually as well. In running the race, we need to train ourselves – body, soul, and spirit – every aspect of our life. We shouldn’t even be afraid of the hill ahead – representing difficulties, temptations, trials. In fact, James tells us in chapter 1 to, Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything  (vss. 2, 3).  We need to establish your spiritual routines and stick with them as well as to learn to rest and recover in Jesus.

Our walk with God is like a race, which we must be prepared to run and to be aware of any challenges that may interfere with our success. A race that is run well has great rewards. We will see Christ one day, so don’t despair about today. Look with faith toward the finish line. Remember God has our future in His secure hands.

May we be able to say along with the Apostle Paul: I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. 2 Timothy 4:6-8

Joseph M. Stowell once wrote: We run for Him—for Christ’s glory and for the honor of His name. We run for the advancement of His kingdom.