Called to Compete
“Therefore since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us, and run with endurance the race that lies before us…”
– Hebrews 12:1
I like to think the writer of Hebrews was a sports fan.The analogies he uses would certainly lead one to support this idea. Just as the writer referred to great numbers of witnesses, we athletes often compete in front of an audiences of great numbers.
This is also true in the Christian walk. Both believers and nonbelievers comprise our audience. There are those who encourage us: our pastors or our Sunday School teachers; and then there are those who "boo" us, ones who are opposed to any semblance of commitment to our Lord.
As we think about our example and our "coach,” Jesus Christ, we should be encouraged to continue being faithful even through the tough times of discipline and training. Just as surely as we strive for excellence in our chosen sport to gain that championship trophy, rewards await us that are worth the cost: the joy in realizing our victory over sin, the peace that comes from the knowledge of sins forgiven and, of course, eternal life!
1. What has your Christian walk cost you this week?
2. What are you doing to make sure you “go the distance”?
3. What are you doing to encourage someone else in his/her Christian walk?
3 John 3
2 Thessalonians 3:13
Galatians 6:9
“For you need endurance, so that after you have done God's will, you may receive what was promised.” – Hebrews 10:36
