I have always loved Hebrews 12:1-2 and 1 Corinthians 9:24-27. Although they are in separate books and arguably written by different writers, they both conceptually speak of running.
Together they compliment one another and we can gather some great advice comparing these passages to help us run and finish our race.
Hebrews 12:1-2 “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.
Here are 3 principles taken from these passages:
1. Each person has a race set before them.
Each of us have been given a life to lead or as these scriptures declare a race to run. God has a specific race for you. It is a race specifically for you that only you can run. The goal for this race is to finish the race and to finish strong. As you run, understand that there is an enemy trying to stop you from finishing the race. This adversity comes in many forms in an attempt to hinder and snare you. It can come in the form worry, doubt, insecurity, uncertainty. It’s different for each of us and you need to identify what it is that is holding you back and hindering. Our response is to throw off every hinderance and sin.
2. The race requires endurance.
“…let us run with perseverance” which can also be translated endurance as in the NKJV. This race is more of a marathon than a drag race. Endurance is a result of training, discipline, self-control, and dedication. Endurance gives the ability to make it to the finish line. Paul speaks of these attributes as they help him finish the race receiving the prize and not being disqualified from the race.
3. Endurance requires focus.
The writer in Hebrews tells us that we need to set our focus on Jesus. We are to fix our eyes upon Him. Life is full of distractions and it’s easy to begin looking at circumstances and ourselves. We need to make sure we don’t lose focus. Losing focus results in running aimlessly. The strength and ability to run and finish this race comes from Jesus, not our strength and ability.
Other Takeaways
- No walking! All runners run.
- Run to win! There is a prize for finishing the race.
