Heb 12:1-2 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
In 490 B.C., the Athenians won a crucial and decisive battle over the forces of King Darius I of Persia, on a plain near the Greek coastal town of Marathon. Upon delivering the important message of their victory, the Greek soldier who came to tell the good news died — he had completed the 26 mile course running and bearing good news, and did it totally unreserved until the moment he died. Today marathons are run all over the world, commemorating that event 2500 years ago.
Anyone who has run a marathon can tell you how difficult the race is. No matter how good you are, how well trained, how prepared, there are times in the race you just want to quit. But those who persevere till the end receive a prize. Back in King Darius’ day, one would win only a crown made of laurel leaves. Today, athletes compete for trophies and medals. But in God’s race, we win something far more precious — a crown that is incorruptible.
I bet you’re tired today. You are done… overworked, overstressed, overwhelmed. But be encouraged! Just when you think you can’t run any further, you can! C’mon! Press through and press on for the great prize! God is with us, strengthening our feeble knees and moving us in the right direction!! There’s so much work to be done!
October 11th, 2009 at 3:20 pm
thanks for this message about perseverance. things have been rough lately with health issues, we will be leaving our home soon. But, God is great, helping me to remember through this message that there is more to go and he is always with me to keep me going.
October 14th, 2009 at 10:13 am
This devotion took a hold of my heart! I know that today I am going to have some mess-ups and GOD will forgive me but, I need to not have so many mess-ups. I know I can’t get through these mess-ups by myself so I encourage myself and whoever else reads this to ask your GOD in heaven to help you. So many parts in the bible I haven’t even got to yet. I want to discover so many other journey’s. This devotion in Hebrews wasn’t one of my journey’s, so I am glad that it was sitting here waiting for me! Now I want to go through the whole bible and do so many more adventures with my FATHER. SO iI hope that you can do more adventures like these through your own bible. GOD BLESS!
~Darian Campisi~