Race to the Finish

I have been privileged to have several different conversations this week regarding the different aspects of being a Christian. Sometimes we as Christians have to call other Christians out (in love, of course) on behaviors that are not healthy. Other times we need to ask fellow Believers for counsel, to make sure we are being held accountable and staying on track. Then there is the sheer peace and joy in talking about faith with another Believer, in praying for each other and sharing what God has shown that day.

God never promised us that this life He called us to would be simple or carefree. I think of the things the disciples went through after Jesus returned to Heaven, and the other Believers who have been persecuted and killed for their faith since and pray I have that same courage should it ever be me in that situation.

The Christian life is hard work. We are asked to give up those things that would take our attention away from God and our relationship with Him. This is different for many people – I’ve known some who have given up their social media accounts, or television, gaming. Whatever is taking away your time from God, pray about what He would like you to do.

Something was said to me this week by a person who said they had focused inwardly for awhile instead of maintaining a focus on God, and how badly that messed with events in their life. It is true… when we take our eyes off of Jesus and focus on the image in the mirror, things start to get a little crazy.

Keep that Christ focus, run the race, and never look behind. I imagine God standing in front of me with His hand out-stretched towards me, beckoning me closer. One day I will be able to physically touch that hand and be forever in the presence of Him who gave His life for me.

Hebrews 12:1-3 (NASB)

Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, ² fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

³ For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.