For the joy set before . . . Run the race . . . I've been told I run like a girl; Duh, I am a girl. Yet when it comes to the joy set before me I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength, even run. But there are times I become weary; especially if I'm running with out joyful endurance. Then I need to walk and not faint. If I don't take the time to walk I'll end up crawling to the finish line, if I'm lucky. But I don't want to depend upon luck; I want sufficient grace to help me with what I can't do for myself; put my eyes back on the prize of joy unspeakable and full of glory. Marvelous, intangible glory which strengthens my soul. Not pride or reward but shekinah glory; the evidence of God's enveloping presence that manifests itself as a cloud by day and fire by night. They reveal the prepared way and then I can finish the course.
"This is it!"...exactly what the Lord spoke to my heart as we flew back to Alaska above the blanket of white clouds covering the earth below in the wide-open clear blue skies. The question He asked me was "Are you going to finish "strong"? As I pondered that qualifier "strong" I saw what you're saying here: We all finish, one way or another, dropping back and dropping out is technically "finishing". Crawling bloody and beaten across the line is also technically "finishing". But God, as the Author and Finisher of my faith, has a far better plan! His voice cheers me on to finish the course "strong"!
ReplyDeleteAs the Word says in 1 John 2:14: ...because ye have known him that is from the beginning...because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one.
One of Strong's definitions of "strong": "as one who has strength of soul to sustain...therefore exhibiting many excellences..."
Your ending gives my soul hope, Rhonda...that He has prepared the way...and revealed the prepared way...and I CAN finish the course...STRONG!