Dear Lord,
When I feel like giving up, I wonder if my race even matters.
What if my discouragement is nothing but lies from the enemy who wants to stop me in my tracks?
The reality is I’m not running this race by myself. I’m running it with You, my Lord and Savior. As I continue my race, You counter the enemy’s lies with truth. You say, “Be strong. Do not give up.” You promise that my efforts will be rewarded. As I look toward the finish line, I see Your smile and I know You are giving me the strength to run!
But I cannot run this race with a double mind. Help me to toss away everything that slows me down, especially the sin that has distracted me. Help me to keep my focus on You. You are both my source of strength and my goal. You ran Your race, You endured Your death on the cross, and You did it so that one day I can run into Your arms. What joy we will share! Because You endured so much for me, I will endure my race for You. Give me the strength to never give up.
I will be strong and courageous! I will not be afraid or discouraged. Your love is my strength, and You are with me as I run. You will be with me when I cross the finish line.
In the name of Jesus, amen.
But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.
2 Chronicles 15:7 NIV
Since we are surrounded by so many examples of faith, we must get rid of everything that slows us down, especially sin that distracts us. We must run the race that lies ahead of us and never give up. We must focus on Jesus, the source and goal of our faith. He saw the joy ahead of him, so he endured death on the cross and ignored the disgrace it brought him. Now he holds the honored position—the one next to God the Father on the heavenly throne. Think about Jesus, who endured opposition from sinners, so that you don’t become tired and give up.
Hebrews 12:1–3 GW
This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9 NLT