The Race of Faith

“Run your best in the race of faith, and win eternal life for yourself; for it was to this life that God called you when you firmly professed your faith before many witnesses.” ‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭6‬:‭12‬

My race of faith is not the same as anyone else’s race. When I professed my faith, I stepped into the plans and purposes that God has for me. It is the life God called me to, and although my life may be similar it will never be a replicate of anyone else’s life.

It is why comparison is so bad. It is so easy to slip into comparison because we often surround ourselves with people with similar goals and interests. Then we look at where they are compared to where we are, not realizing God did not put us in a competition.I am not going to get credit if I decide Jenny’s lane is better and try to run it. I wasn’t called to run her life.

There will be times where my best is really making it through the day. Remember the days the disciples were locking themselves in a room for fear following the days after Jesus death and resurrection.

“It was late that Sunday evening, and the disciples were gathered together behind locked doors, because they were afraid of the Jewish authorities. Then Jesus came and stood among them. “Peace be with you,” he said.” ‭‭John‬ ‭20‬:‭19‬ ‭

And then there will be days where it looks like I am unstoppable in my race. After those same disciples were filled with Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost, the number of followers continued to grow.

“Many of them believed his message and were baptized, and about three thousand people were added to the group that day. They spent their time in learning from the apostles, taking part in the fellowship, and sharing in the fellowship meals and the prayers. Many miracles and wonders were being done through the apostles, and everyone was filled with awe. All the believers continued together in close fellowship and shared their belongings with one another. They would sell their property and possessions, and distribute the money among all, according to what each one needed. Day after day they met as a group in the Temple, and they had their meals together in their homes, eating with glad and humble hearts, praising God, and enjoying the good will of all the people. And every day the Lord added to their group those who were being saved.” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭41‬-‭47‬ ‭

We can’t define our race by one day or even one season. Each day we continue to take steps forward, after all that is what is done in a race. Even in a marathon, I am told there are times when most runners are ready to quit. Yet, they keep running the race. They don’t stop because too many have passed them. They are focused on their race. That is what we have to do also.

We have to focus on our race. We can’t allow ourselves to be slowed down just because those around us appear to be moving faster, or even in different paths. God designed our path, we have to let Him order our steps. Our race is won as we consistently move forward, whether fast or slow, in our own race lane.