Hebrews 12:1

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. Hebrews 12:1

I ran a half marathon last spring.  It was grueling, to say the least.  Not only was the race long (13.1 miles/21 kilometers), but the training that was required was time consuming.  Now that it is over, I’ve reflected a lot on the parallels between running and the Christian life. 

To run with endurance, you must train consistently.  I spent 45 minutes to an hour each day and 2-3 hours on Saturdays, running & speed walking as well as exercises to strengthen my knees.  As a Christian, I also need to consistently spend time reading the Bible and praying, training myself in God’s ways.  

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. 1 Corinthians 9:24

While I wasn’t a fast runner, I did strive to do my best.  I set a goal to not stop and walk during the race (knowing that if I stopped I probably wouldn’t be able to go back to running).  And although I did exercises to help my knees, the pain I endured was excruciating.  In life, we face trials and pain, emotional and physical.  We are able to withstand them when we pray and have God’s Word implanted in our thoughts. 

Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. 1 Corinthians 9:26

Holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain. Philippians 2:16

Just as I knew that I would eventually reach that finish line, as a Christian, I know that Christ is the victor and through Him, I will win the race.  I can’t lose heart and give up.  My priorities must be aligned with the teachings of Scripture.  My labors won’t be in vain.