Closer Than Ever

I love to run. Running is my exercise of choice. The only problem is catching the moment when I feel like running. When I’m in the mood, when the weather is just right- there is nothing that can sway me from popping in my air pods and putting on my favorite running shoes to hit the pavement. Often, compelled by the mood I will head out my door for a long run. A few miles into my journey the feeling of wanting to run fades. It gets hard. No longer am I excited or motivated. At this point, I am questioning every decision that led me to this moment. Trying so desperately to dig deep I realize that the only way home to completion is through. I’ve gone too far to compromise at comfortable. Comfort would have been a half-mile walk; no, I am past the point of comfort to the point of push. I now have to push past every limit that I am imposing on myself to get home.

The apostle Paul talks about running his race in Philippians 3. He says “I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Our life is like a race. There are going to be moments when you feel like running and moments where you feel like camping out on the side of the road. Paul reminds us that in the race of life, we must forget what is behind us and press on. As good as the start of the race was, as motivated as you felt by a touch from God or even by desire when that feeling fades you have to keep going. There is a future hope for you in Christ. As good or as bad as your starting point was, you’re not there anymore. The Bible tells us when we grow weary, “to fix our eyes on Jesus—who is the author and perfector of our faith.” When you feel like the race of life has outrun you, fix your eyes on Jesus.

Today, you may feel like the distance you have to go is overwhelming… fix your eyes on Jesus! Friend, on this walk of faith you are past the point of turning back. Even though you may not be where you want to be, you are miles from where you started! You are not on this journey alone, He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion!

So, run. Run the race marked out for you. His grace is sufficient for every step. Before you know it, you will be breaking limits you never thought possible! You may not be where you want to be yet—but friend, you are closer than ever!