Easy Run

MID-YEAR RENEWAL!
Terry R. Baughman

“Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus …” (Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV).

No one can truly say that running a marathon is easy. There are months of preparation required to adequately condition the body for an extended run. Muscle toning, hydration, nutrition, and most importantly, getting out and running are all vital considerations in preparation. The more body conditioning is practiced, the easier it becomes to run. Running a mile is exhausting for the beginner, but for the conditioned runner it may be considered an easy run. 

So it is with many things that are difficult at first. As hard things are attempted, strength is developed, the body adapts to new demands, and mentally we become more confident in our ability to accomplish those things. 

Christian development and discipleship are conditioning for greater levels of faith and experience. Paul said, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13 NKJ). The Apostle used several examples of sports competition and training. He viewed his life journey as a race and sought to complete it successfully. He said, “I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace” (Acts 20:24 NIV).

Paul saw that his life was coming to completion when he wrote to Timothy, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7 NKJ). His hope is also ours, “Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, … will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing” (2 Timothy 4:8 NKJ). Some sections of the race have been tough, but the final victory lap in His presence will be an easy run!


Theme passage:
“They will rise up on soaring wings and fly like eagles, run their races without growing weary, and walk through life without giving up” (Isaiah 40:31 TPT).