Hebrews 12
The Race of Faith
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, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
I think we have to have a reward in front of us. Something that makes the battle, the suffering, the pain, the annoying inconvenience worth it. Something that makes us go, “Yes-for THAT!”
When I was missing Olivia like crazy while she was on the Ranch, I could keep looking forward to the amazing day when she came home and we could celebrate the beginning of a new life. When I was in the middle of yet another run on the treadmill because it was so cold and snowy, I could imagine being healthy, fit and not fat anymore. When I’m training for this year’s NYC Marathon (my first:) and I can’t imagine waking up early to run some crazy distance I just think about being able to finish; I think about the kids in Africa that I’m raising money for….the JOY set before me.
Look at the verse–even Jesus, the very Son of God, needed a joy to look forward to so He could endure…
Don’t you? Don’t I?
What’s the JOY that is set before you? Maybe you need to find it so you can get going…
Thanks for this, Ben — was a timely post for me.
I’m so glad Natasha!
Yes!! Exactly what’s been on my mind. Hannah tweeted the other day “one word, what inspires you?” and as I thought about that question I came to this very conclusion. Reward. Whether it be an earthly, physical or emotional reward, or the ultimate reward–Jesus, Himself… I need something to look forward to..a prize bigger than the struggle.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts:)
I love that Jesus Himself is our reward, Marissa. Thanks!
Totally agree with the other commenters – what a lovely and timely and encouraging reminder. So impressed with your marathon training, and thank you again for sharing. The daily joy {that I sometimes forget to keep in front of me} is knowing I am worth it… that God loves me enough to tell me every day just how worth it I am.
So good, Kristin. Thanks for reading!
Wow, talk about stumbling upon your blog and reading exactly what I think God wanted me to see. I’m searching now for the “want to”. How could I not “want to?” I have 3 beautiful children and a loving husband, a great job, and God to glorify? How could I not “get this”? Frustrating…. I’m going to study this verse. Thanks so much!! JEN
Don’t fret! I understand things in my mind all the time only to not really live it out…thank you for reading 🙂