Life is a race. If you have ever participated in a 5k – you can understand this truth. Stationed at the starting line, the runners ready themselves – stretching, jogging in place – they warm up their bodies preparing themselves for the road ahead. They wait in anticipation for the horn or whistle to sound. This noise beckons a whole set of new emotions: feelings of fear, thoughts of uncertainty – but also a sense of perseverance and hope. You see, there is always a winner at the end of the trail. Hard work and preparation serve as conduits of success.

“Do you know in a race all the runners run but only one gets the prize? Run in such as way as to get the prize.” {1 Corinthians 9:24}

God has planted our feet on an incredible journey – to his blessings and unmeasurable riches! He has clothed us with the finest running gear. He has placed sturdy shoes on our feet to run in such a way to receive an unmatchable prize – his kingdom. Races are painful. They are long and drawn-out. Our legs ache from the hard road and our faces swell with exhaustion sometimes. However, nothing can compare to the feeling of crossing the finish line – for we know we have not journeyed alone. We can celebrate the victory of the run with our faithful coach and trainer – God, our Father.

“I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”{Philippians 3:14}