Running Free

“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, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” – Hebrews 12:1-2

Have you ever run an endurance race?

If you’ve ever run an endurance race, you know that it is a challenging endeavor. It takes training, proper equipment, encouragement, and mental focus to run well.

The life of a Christian is compared to an endurance race several times in the Bible. The endurance referred to is keeping the faith. Faith is a gift and salvation is assured for all who have faith. So, we are warned not to give up the faith and walk away from the salvation that is ours. There will be struggles and temptations along the way, thus it’s a spiritual endurance race.

Much like a physical endurance race, there are certain things that can help us with our spiritual endurance race which God has provided:

Encouragement – Not only do we have our brothers and sisters in the church, but a history’s worth of witnesses to the goodness and salvation of God.
Untangle – It’s hard to run with strings and cords wrapped around to trip us. God can free us from being entangled in sin. Prayer, confession, Scripture, and help from others in the church are very helpful.
Unburden – Can you imagine running with a 100 lb weight tied to you? Jesus has cut the burden of the Law and works righteousness so that we can run freely in grace.
Focus – Christ gives us a new mind to think of the things of God rather than those of the world. He also provides many things to help keep you focused, like prayer, Scripture, worship, etc.
Look to the Goal – Distractions and pain will come. Keep your eyes on Jesus. He created (authored) your faith and He will perfect it to the end.

So, lace up your running shoes. It’s a good race and a great prize for finishing. Jesus will run it with and give you the strength to finish. I’ll see you on the race track…and at the finish line.

Heavenly Father,

It is by Your grace that I have been entered into this race of faith and it is by Your grace that I will finish it. Encourage me, free me from sin, give me the rest of grace, and help me to always stay focused on You, the author and perfector of my faith. Keep me in the faith until I cross that finish line.

Amen.

In Christ’s Service,

Pastor Kurt

Running Free

Faith Lutheran Church in Wesley Chapel, FL serving Lutz, Zephyrhills, Land O’ Lakes, and New Tampa, FL