Running the Race—Part 6: Endurance

Last week, we looked at running the race “empowered.” This means running the race in God’s strength, acknowledging that we cannot do it on our own. However, that does not leave us without responsibility. We also have to run the race with ENDURANCE (that’s our part). We looked at Hebrews 12:1 before, but we need to consider it again:

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us … (Hebrews 12:1 ESV emphasis mine)

Instead of “endurance”, the KJV uses “patience.” NIV says, “perseverance.” Any way you look at it, it doesn’t sound very fun, does it. Endurance, patience, and perseverance all speak of determined effort over time. They also speak of something that isn’t easy. Let’s face it, we are never promised smooth sailing through the Christian life. Instead, we are told to “...rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance … (Romans 5:3).” Paul taught his protégé Timothy to, “... always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. (2 Timothy 4:5).”

We all face tough days. Some are far tougher than others. But, we must never give up. Like Hebrews 12:2 says, we must keep our eyes on “Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith.” We must keep going so that, in the end, like Paul, we can say, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. (2 Timothy 4:7)”

So, when the race seems easy, thank God! When the race is hard, pray for help and keep going. Ask God for strength (empowerment), and “… press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.… (Phil 3:14).”

In His grip,
Pastor Decker