Keep Your Eye On The Prize

It is natural for a believer to sprint toward their calling when health, finances, and emotions are thriving, but the race of faith in between those near-perfect moments can range from an even pace to a slow and arduous walk. Let's face it: sometimes the marathon of life can be downright discouraging. Even a seasoned Christian can lose sight of the goal in those difficult moments.

If you are running ragged today, stop to consider this. Even Jesus was upset as he prepared to endure the unimaginable pain of the cross (Matthew 27:46). However Jesus trusted God even in the midst of his distress. He carried forth God's will toward the cross. He continued with the most difficult leg of the journey. With loving purpose he summoned his friends to care for his mother (John 19:27) and then he committed his spirit to God (Luke 23:46).

If you find yourself wondering how God could bring you through something difficult, remember he always has purpose in pain. Like Jesus, stay in communion with God, asking for a glimpse of what he is doing. Remember that a beautiful resurrection of your trial and ultimately your life is coming.

From the time when Christ was raised on that beautiful third day, we can now say in every loss we experience, "Oh Death, where is your victory? Oh Death, where is your sting?" 1 Corinthians 15:55 (NASB)

Christ's resurrection power has conquered even death, our greatest foe. If you'd like someone from our team to pray for you, talk to a mentor.

Dear Father, thank you for giving me hope in Christ when I am grieving a difficulty. I want to bring others toward you, running at full sprint toward your dreams for me but sometimes I simply run out of steam. Please help me to see your purpose through the difficulties. Thank you for sending Jesus to win the race for me for eternity! In Jesus's name, amen.

Throughout This Day: Although one day we will be with Jesus far away from trials, we need other believers during the difficult times here on earth. Just as Jesus summoned his friends to help his mother, if you need help, ask someone else to pick up and help you on the journey for a while until you can return to the race fresh and fully rested.