“Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith”-Hebrews 12:1-2
Running with endurance takes discipline! Long distance runners don't just jump in a long distance race without training. Training takes time, effort, discipline, perseverance and endurance!
Training usually means extreme commitments -Getting up early, doing things even when you don't "feel" like it, pushing yourself when you feel like giving up, going up against the odds, pushing through the pain, mentally preparing yourself, overcoming setbacks and injuries, and endurance!
We are to run this race with endurance, so train for it. Just like athletes are a great example of what discipline it takes to train for a physical race -we are to be spiritual athletes!
Get up early and spend time with Him. Press in when you don't "feel" Him or feel like it. When it gets hard-keep "fighting the good fight". When the odds are stacked against you -keep going "narrow is the gate". Push through the pain and trials when your "hard pressed on every side but not crushed". Set your minds on Jesus- "those whose minds are on Him will be in perfect peace". If you fall down and get injured-let Him dust you off and "heal your wounds"- "you're more then a conqueror". Look to the ultimate example of endurance- Jesus "who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross".
Train with endurance...honor the commitments...cherish the results!
