Running the Race We are all called by God to do things for Him, told by His Spirit or His Word to be obedient, and to be patient and to trust Him in something. It is easy to give up and to quit early, especially when the race includes waiting for long periods of time to see God's promises come to pass.  We are often deceived by the enemy with whispers from him or thoughts such as: "It's too hard." (lack of faith in the one who gives you strength) "Why do I have to wait for Him, when no one else I know has had to wait for this, this is not fair." (pride) "I am in this situation because of the wrongs of others. God will understand if I give up." (a lie from Satan) You can be assured that the race will be no longer than you can handle, that God will use/is using every moment to strengthen you and to bring Him glory, and that He will greatly reward you for your perseverance. He will never let you down, and He will bless you beyond what you had originally ever hoped. Remember to depend on the Lord and use His strength. Arm yourself with His Word, prayer, and praises to Him. He will carry to  the end of the race. Don't get impatient and get out of His arms before you reach the finish line. You can't win a marathon in segments, stopping and starting as you please. Long distance races require that you would have to start at the beginning all over again. Winners of marathons get credit for the journey and the perseverance. Just about anyone can run for a short stretch- where's the glory in that? When you are impatient and quit the race, you jump out of His arms and stumble on your own two feet. The race of life requires you to allow Him to do the exhausting exercise. You will feel only the bumps in the road and the wait until the finish line, both of which He will literally carry you through. That's all you have to do- TRUST THE MASTER RUNNER and allow Him to do the work through you. Just let go and trust Him! Let Him carry you all the way to the finish line. He promises to help you endure and not only run the race, but win the trophy! Back