Seasoned long-distance runners have learned to focus on endurance, not just speed. They pace themselves so that as they approach the finish line they can pull out all the stops. Paul says, ‘…I’m running hard for the finish line…giving it everything I’ve got…I’m not going to get caught…telling everyone else…then missing out myself’ (Corinthians 9:26-27 TM). For spiritual long-distance runners, quitting isn’t an option. Despite some delays and disappointments along the way, they know they’d never be satisfied just sitting on the sidelines cheering for those who have paid the price to run the race. So if you’re that kind of person – one who needs to attain the hope of calling and fulfil your God-ordained purpose – go for it! And don’t forget, Jesus said, ‘‘‘…great gifts mean great responsibilities…’’’ (Luke12:48 TM). Winning will cost you in terms of pressure, criticism, loneliness and sacrifice.
So, what’s the secret to staying power? Paul said, ‘…Jesus…finished this race…Because He never lost sight of where He was headed…He could put up with anything…’ (Hebrews 12:2 TM). You’ll only endure the pain when you’ve something to look forward to. God exposes us to opposition and criticism to strengthen our character. That way when greater blessings (and responsibilities) come, we won’t crack. Success comes only when you’re committed and have the passion to cross the finish line. So the question is: can you stand to be blessed? When the pressure is on will you say, like Nehemiah, ‘‘‘My work is too important to stop…’’’ (Nehemiah 6:3 CEV)? If your answer is yes, get your eye on the goal, ‘‘‘…run to win,’ and you’re sure to cross the finish line!
Soul Food Reading: Ex 30-32; Luke 14:25-35; Ps 106:24-48; Prov 7:3-5
Excerpt from THE WORD FOR TODAY, UCB (United Christian Broadcasters), PO Box 255, Stoke-On-Trent, ST4 8YY, England. Free issues of the daily devotional are available for the UK and Republic of Ireland.
The Word For Today
Fri 9th March 07
The Cost Of Being Blessed (2)
‘‘‘…Sit Down And Figure The cost…’’’ Luke 14:28 TM
How many times have you prayed for a particular thing without realizing how much it would ultimately cost you? Success always comes with a price tag. Being blessed can be hard work. Everything God gives us requires maintenance. When He placed Adam and Eve in the Garden, they still had to tend to it. Jesus said when you’re ‘‘‘…planning to build…sit down and figure the cost…’’’ For example, when God blesses you don’t expect everyone around you to rejoice. Some people will think your blessing came at their expense. That’s because they don’t want you to move ahead faster than they do. Or they want what God’s given you, but they’re not prepared to pay the price you’ve paid.
James say’s, ‘Where you have envy and selfish ambition…you find…every evil practise’ (James 3:16 NIV). And it’s not just your enemies you have to watch out for; betrayal often comes from within your own ranks. Jesus sat at the table with John the beloved and Judas the betrayer. One was close enough to lay his head on Jesus’ breast while the other had sufficient access to betray Him with a kiss. You need to know who’s sitting at your table!
However, as painful as it is to be criticised by people you respect and trust, it’s worse to veer from the course God’s charted for you in order to gain their acceptance. As good as it feels to be affirmed and applauded, at some point you need to stop and ask, ‘How much am I willing to sacrifice to be blessed?’ Your answer will determine your destiny!
Soul Food Reading: Ex 33-35; Luke 15:1-10; Ps 112; Prov 7:6-9
Excerpt from THE WORD FOR TODAY, UCB (United Christian Broadcasters), PO Box 255, Stoke-On-Trent, ST4 8YY, England. Free issues of the daily devotional are available for the UK and Republic of Ireland.
