Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. (1 Corinthians 9:24,25)
We are in a race for our lives. This race is ran primarily on the field our minds. Every thought that we think, every word that we speak and every action that we make is determined by what has entered our minds, rather directly or indirectly. The more acquainted we are with the rules of the race and its objective the better we will be. Jesus has paved the way for us by leaving us an example to follow (1 Peter 2:21). He endured and completed the race that we may as well (Hebrews 12:2,3). While still on earth He indicated to His apostles that the race would not be easy. “In the world you shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). We must be diligent to keep our eyes fixed on the prize “and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith” (Hebrews 12:1,2).
Hear the words of Solomon, “the race is not to the swift”*, but to the one who endures to the end – because “no one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God” (Ecclesiastes 9:11; Luke 9:62).
Let it not be said and the question never asked, “Ye were running well; who hindered you that ye should not obey the truth?” (Galatians 5:7)
Are you running for your life? One day I hope to see you at the finish line!
Tavares D. Mathews