Running the Race—Part 11: Training

It would be crazy to try to run a 5 K race, or a marathon, on the spur of the moment. Without proper training, injury is much more likely, as our muscles, and our bodies in general, are not prepared for the physical demands of a race. Without conditioning and regular training, such an endeavor would result in much pain and possibly permanent damage. However, with proper training, one should be able to finish the race.

Just as a runner trains for a race, we all must train for running the race of life. The race of life has enough pain on its own, but running without proper training would only intensify and add to the pain. Proper training helps us to know our weak spots, and to be prepared to face temptation. You probably guessed it already, but the training I am speaking of is being grounded in God’s Word. Paul spoke of this in his letters to Timothy, and we would do well to pay attention:

Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. (1 Timothy 4:7-8)

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.(2 Timothy 3:16-17)

If we want to finish well, as I think we all do, we need to faithfully study God’s Word. Without the Bible, we are running the race unprepared, and will suffer much. With it, we have great hope of finishing well!
Furthermore, as runners benefit from training with others, pushing each other to another level, we are also meant to train together:

And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. (Hebrews 10:24-25)

So, today’s encouragement is to train well, race well, and finish well!
In His grip,
Pastor Decker