Run the Race with Faith

I love being a dad and am beyond grateful to be blessed with our 5 children. One of the joys comes to me by sharing faith in Jesus together. Another joy is cheering them on as they run their cross country and track races.

One of my favorite all time Scripture verses from Hebrews: Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith”

To “run the race of faith,” Christians must focus on Jesus Christ, the “author and perfecter” of their faith, and persevere through life’s challenges with discipline, commitment, and endurance. This biblical metaphor from Hebrews 12:1-2 encourages Jesus followers to shed distractions, throw off sin, and look to Jesus’ example of enduring suffering for the joy that awaited Him, knowing He is their ultimate prize and hope.  

Key Aspects of Running the Race of Faith

• Fix Your Eyes on Jesus: The most crucial aspect is to keep your focus on Jesus, who serves as the ultimate example of faith and the reason for the race. He endured the cross and inspires believers to endure their own struggles. 
• Persevere with Endurance: Like a runner, you must have stamina and commit to finishing the race, even when circumstances are difficult or discouraging. 
• Throw Off Distractions: Just as a runner is hindered by unnecessary weight, believers must shed everything that hinders their spiritual progress and “the sin that so easily entangles” them. 
• Discipline and Commitment: The journey of faith requires a steadfast commitment and disciplined effort to stay the course. 
• Recognize the Prize: The ultimate prize is not a crown of one person’s victory, but rather whole life and being with God. 
• Draw Strength from God: When you feel weary or worn out, remember that your strength comes from the Lord. 
• Live for God’s Glory: All aspects of this spiritual race should be done with the ultimate goal of honoring God and the spiritual goals set before you.

Our joy is in running the race together! Thank you Jesus.