Tuesday, May 24, 2011

May 25, 2011

"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." Hebrews 12:1-2

I just finished watching the American Idol final two show. Both Scotty and Lauren did very well, especially under the pressure of the night and being in the much larger theater. They both sang three songs, both did all three like pros but Lauren got to go last and she finished well! How can you not like a country song that honors your mother? That is like slapping a big hunk of vanilla ice cream atop your fresh from the oven apple pie? Lauren may have put herself over the top with that song because people do tend to remember how you finished.

Finishing well is crucial to whatever you are doing. In Hebrews 12:1-2 we are reminded of the importance of finishing well in the spiritual race.

It is good to run fast. Running fast in a race is always a great idea! Running fast in the spiritual race is probably because you have rid yourself of all extra weight and hinderances. That is smart and more importantly, it is spiritually necessary. Those who run fact are the ones who normally win the race.

Just as running fast is an advantage, so is running far. The spiritual race is a marathon and not a sprint, so the farther you run the better. Running fast and running far gives you a definite edge in the race you are running. The most important thing though, is to run all the way to the end of the race.

That brings us to the most important truth about running a race - running fast, running far AND finishing the race! When you run a race plan to always finish well. Always run through the tape! Lunge toward the line! Running fast might get you some attention. Running far might get you and advantage, but finishing well - like Lauren Alaina - will get you remembered! And like her, it will get you into the winner's circle!

So, as you are running your spiritual race, run fast and run far, but make sure you run to the finish! Keep your focus fixed on Jesus at the finish line and run hard toward Him!

How are you running? Are you staying focused on Jesus? What are you doing to make sure you finish?










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