I am not much of a runner, but I have done enough to know that when you are about to reach your personal goal (2K/5K/marathon) it feels both exhausting and rewarding.
It is no different for those of us who are running our own races of faith. What is cool about our faith-race is that it is not about anyone but ourselves and God. We do not compare ourselves to other runners because our own races have been uniquely designed for each of us to run. This is why Paul explained that it is important to “compete according to the rules.” Everyone runs – but not all receive the prize! (1 Corinthians 9:24-27).
Life is an arduous adventure. We get knocked down. We get back up. We train, we compete, we learn, we grow. Paul was careful to make sure he finished well. For him it was all about fighting the good fight of faith, finishing his God appointed course, and keeping the faith that had been given to him as a gift to multiply and return to God.
“Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.
Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air; but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.” – 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Run my friend!