I’ve always liked the way the Bible compares life to a race. The author of Hebrews says, “Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us” (Hebrews 12:1). But in comparing life to a race, don’t be confused and think that everybody is in a single race where we all compete. Did you notice that phrase “the race marked out for us”? God has a race for you that is unique. Yours may be a 100-yard dash while someone else runs 1500 meters, and still another runs a 10-K or a marathon. For some, life’s race seems to be hurdles—they hardly make it over one obstacle before another rises in front of them.
But we’re not in competition with one another. That’s why we shouldn’t look at the person next to us and think, “She’s not running as fast as I am.” Or, “He’s making terrific progress in his life, while I’m going nowhere right now.” Let me encourage you with this thought: You can run the race God has set out for you because it’s designed uniquely for you. It’s neither too long nor too difficult. God knows your strengths and your weaknesses, and He takes these into account as He lays out the course. You’ll be stretched more than you ever thought you could endure, but He’ll never ask you to do the impossible. He has promised His presence and His resources as you call on Him for help.
Have you been slacking off lately, or getting sidetracked? The secret is found in the Bible in one phrase: “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2). It’s only when we take our eyes off Him that we get off track.
Embrace the race you are running as designed for you by God Himself. Accept the opportunities and obstacles that are before you as part of His plan. Set your sights on Jesus. Then once more take a deep breath and get going.
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