Ready:
"Therefore, since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every hindrance and the sin that so easily ensnares us. Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us.” —Hebrews 12:1
Set:
Have you ever felt like you’re running the race of life on your own? Maybe you see all the other people with their loved ones on the sidelines, giving their athlete water, snacks, cold towels, hugs, high-fives and yet there you are alone with no one to support you. For some, you don’t have to imagine too hard because this is your life.
Right before Hebrews 12, Hebrews 11 lists the faith hall of famers in the Bible. It’s filled with people who believed well regardless of what their race looked like in the moment. A pastor once put it this way: so many people in the Bible have gone on before us and ran their race well. They’ve finished and now they stand on the sidelines cheering us on as we run. So, no matter how alone we might feel when our people don’t show up for us in life or at our games, we are never truly alone.
Scripture is full of highlight reels, lowlight reels, bloopers, glory stories, game plans, play-by-plays and so much more. God, in the richness of His generous blessings, has provided us with all the support we need so that even if no one shows up for us ever again in life, we will still have all the support we need to run hard and well. It’s important for us to remember that people are imperfect, and they cannot fill perfect shoes in our lives. Only God can fill those so let’s not try to force them on our loved one’s feet and be upset when they don’t fit.
Receive the truth that God cheers you on with joy in His presence. An athlete might not have family present, but you know who is always there? The LORD.
Go:
Have you felt the presence of God with you during competition?
Pick one faithful example of someone who has gone before you in the faith that encourages you to keep running well. What is one practical way you can model their faithfulness in your race right now?
Workout:
Overtime:
“Heavenly Father, thank You for never leaving me on the path of righteousness. It’s a hard path and it is lonesome at times, but I know I am never truly alone. Thank You for the stories of the saints and for teaching me how to run well through their mistakes and triumphs. Thank You for the richness and comfort of Your Word. Please give me eyes to see You as You show up for me; I don’t want to miss it. I love you. Amen.”