And in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 states, "Know ye not that
they which run in a race run all, but one receives the prize? So run, that ye
may obtain. And every man that strives for the mastery is temperate in all
things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. So
I run therefore, not with uncertainly; I fight, not as one that beats the air:
But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means,
when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway."
As I progress through
the week, each day I challenge the kids to look beyond themselves to do their
best, and never give up through their times of intense physical training whether
with their sports of basketball, tennis, or soccer; in their academics in
pursuing excellence; or in service to
the community with Girl Scouts or in the church. I look forward to our morning devotion times,
and sharing with them God's enduring love for us through His indescribable
creation!
However more important than talking about truths on
responsibility, and courage in the Lord, I purpose in my heart to walk out the
example that I speak of. Because, all too
often, we are bombarded with so much in our mixed up world- when right and wrong
has become relative to many, or wrong is now being called right.
In the world to come there is only one Judge and He (Almighty
God). He will not change the course of truth -regardless of how many, or how
few actually run it. His rewards will be based on our having stayed the true
course.
So I encourage you… It’s easy to follow the crowd. But it
takes courage and conviction to follow wholeheartedly after God. Sometimes it
can get lonely running your race, wondering where the crowd is going, and even
whether you, yourself are on the right road. But you my friend keep running
with the Lord. And when the race is over and you have finished your course, may
He (the Lord) say to you, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant!”
I pray you abound in the Lord, and that He fill your day
with His purposes and priority!
Following Him!
