Thursday, February 28, 2013

February 28 – Run a Good Race

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, 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. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3 

Run that race to the finish line. Like Jesus to the cross—giving up everything. Like Paul—keep going without complaining. The finish line leads to heaven—to everlasting life with Jesus and with God the Father, Himself. What could be better? Nothing. Why is Christian life described as a race, not a stroll or a jog? We need to train, we have a goal—and there will be winners. A stroll may have a loose goal, but no hurry or winners. And likewise, a jog is more casual, with no real winner. There will be winners, finishers in this Christian race. Keep your eyes on Jesus the scripture tells us. He is the one we are to model ourselves after as we run this race. Keep Him in view…don’t let Him out of your site. And as the going gets tough—don’t give up, get tired or discouraged. Hang in there, persevere, and keep going.

Training Tip – Take your family out for a race. Kids love competition. Set a starting line and a finish line. You may even want to give prizes. Chocolate filled gold coins are always great. If possible, do a three legged race with the kids to give the littlest ones an advantage. Before or after the race read them this scripture in Hebrews and talk about how we need to persevere as we run a long race—keep going even if we get tired or discouraged.  

As we finish out this month of February look once again at your children’s character traits. Have you identified their strengths and weaknesses? Do you know what characteristics you need to help them develop? What changes do your need to make in your own character to help you be more like Jesus? 

Lord, help my children and grandchildren to persevere as they follow You through this race in life. Give them goals that are worthy to achieve and that would be pleasing to you.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.
© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

No comments: