Are you ready to run a long spiritual marathon?

Today, we extend a warm welcome to Patrick Hurley from Liberty Hill, TX, who has recently joined our community by signing up for Video Access on our website. Patrick, we're thrilled to have you on board!

You were running well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth? This persuasion is not from him who calls you. — Galatians 5:7-8

A few times in Paul's letters, he uses a running metaphor to describe the spiritual race. This is one of those instances. So, let's lace up our spiritual running shoes and explore three key parallels Paul makes here.

There is a Form for the Run

Form is crucial when running in any race. Just as a marathon runner needs to maintain proper form to endure the demanding miles ahead, we, too, must cultivate a form that will sustain us. There will be seasons when our spiritual form feels effortless, and we must commit this form to memory. Because there will be more challenging stretches of the race, we will get sloppy, and then we will need to return to the memory and habits of that form.

There are Obstacles on the Run

No marathon is without obstacles. Runners encounter hills to climb, rugged terrain, and unexpected hurdles. In the same way, our spiritual journey is thick with obstacles that threaten our progress. Whether it's temptation, doubt, or the pressures of the world, there will be moments when we stumble and lose our stride. Yet, as Paul reminds us, these obstacles are not insurmountable, and we can quickly get back to form.

There are Voices as We Run

As we race towards the finish line, we are bombarded with voices vying for our attention. Just as an athlete hears the cheers and heckles of the crowd, we, too, encounter voices along our spiritual journey. There are two persuasive voices: the voice that is from God and the voice that is not. Both are persuading you at the same time. One is giving you good advice, and one is giving you bad advice. One is from the Holy Spirit and speaks truth, offering wisdom, guidance, and encouragement that leads you back to the proper form. Conversely, the enemy seeks to deceive and derail us with lies and distractions that lead to bad form.

As you reflect on the text today, here's the call to action: check your form, watch the obstacles, listen to the Spirit's voice, and fix your eyes on the prize. Let us charge ahead with unwavering resolve, ready to run the long race of faith with our eyes fixed on the ultimate prize—eternity with Jesus Christ.

#SpiritualMarathon #RunTheRace #FaithEndurance #KeepTheFaith #EternalPrize

ASK THIS:

1. How can you actively cultivate and maintain your spiritual form to endure the challenges of the long spiritual marathon?
2. Reflecting on your recent spiritual journey, what obstacles have you encountered, and how have you overcome them to stay on course in your race of faith?

DO THIS: Run and keep your form.

PRAY THIS: Father, guide me as I lace up my spiritual shoes and embark on this marathon of faith. Grant me strength to overcome obstacles, discern your voice, and run with endurance towards the eternal prize awaiting me. Amen.

PLAY THIS: Run To The Father.