Training Tips for the Race of Life

When I became a Christian, I signed up to follow Jesus. People have let me down at times, but Jesus never has. He has never forsaken me, disappointed me, or abandoned me.

The writer of Hebrews tells us, “Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:1–2 NKJV).

Jesus is the One for whom I’m running this race. I am not running for the applause of people or some earthly reward. I am running it for Him because He did so much for me.

This is a long-distance run, and the key to finishing this race is to keep our eyes on Jesus. If we do that, we’ll make it. We’re not competing against each other in this race. Our enemies aren’t our brothers and sisters in Christ. Rather, our enemy is the devil.

The most important aim in running this race is to hear Jesus say in that final day, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21, 23).

Sometimes we will be discouraged. Sometimes we will be overwhelmed. But we want to keep our eyes on Christ and finish this race with joy.

The apostle Paul said to the elders of the church at Ephesus, “But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy” (Acts 20:24 NKJV).

Can you look back on your life so far and say, “Up to this point, I have finished my race with joy”? If not, then make a change while you can.