"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:1-2
Who is running beside you in your faith race? The Lord gives us people to enjoy life with so we can grow closer to Him. At times in this race people are ahead of us encouraging us to come on, and sometimes they are right beside us running at the same pace. There are also times our people are weary and a little behind us, so we are to inspire them to keep going.
Whether you are an introvert or an extravert the Lord wired you for connection with other believers on some level. When Jesus sent out the 70 (or 72) disciples, He sent them in twos. He knew that their mission would be hard. It would require faith, endurance, and accountability. Those are the very things we need from each other today! "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls for he has no one to help him up." Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
If you are tired and at a little slower pace, I want to encourage you to keep your eyes ahead and don't worry about the finish line. Just focus on the step right in front of you. Receive encouragement from your brothers and sisters in Christ and encourage yourself in the Lord as David did. Stay in the Word to build your faith and worship to keep your focus on Jesus. If you are running beside someone then I ask you to tell them how thankful you are for them. What a blessing to have someone that is right beside you! Last, if you are on fire in the front of the race, share your story and encourage those behind you. Remember someone may be exactly where you were at one time and the Lord can give them hope through your story! God bless you all and keep running!
(Image by Freepik)
Dig Deeper
Luke 10 | Hebrews 10:24-25 | 1 Thessalonians 5:11