Read 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Runners in a marathon can make long-distance running look easy with huge strides and effortless grace. But for a person who hasn’t trained and isn’t in good shape, running even a mile can prove to be quite difficult. Dedicated runners train for years, watching their diet, building endurance, and running, and running, and running.

Following God’s plan is much like a long-distance race as well. Growing in faith takes commitment, prayer, scripture meditation, and running, and running, and running the race God has laid out. It is not to be a half-hearted endeavor that is important only when it is convenient.

The Apostle Paul wrote…

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 1 Corinthians 9:24-25 NIV

No one decides to become a long-distance runner because it looks like a fun hobby or a way to pass time. Rather, it takes true commitment to give everything to reach the goal of finishing the race. While there are many who many claim to follow Christ, true followers are committed to growing deep in their faith and being faithful to walk God’s path for their lives.

Describe your commitment to running God’s race for your life.
How do you “train” to grow closer in your walk with God?
Dear Jesus, help me to surrender all of my life to You and to run the race You have laid out for me with all that I have to give. In Jesus’ name, Amen.