12:1-2 Run the Race with Joy Some people see life as a rat race—constant movement with no point and no good end. But as believers in Christ, we can run our race with our eyes on the finish line, where Jesus waits to embrace us. He is your champion. Untold thousands in heaven are cheering for you today! Ask God for his joy as you run your race so that those around you will be drawn to your life of faith.
12:11-13 The Value of Discipline Too often we see discipline as a negative thing. Discipline can be a consequence for wrongdoing, but it can also be part of God’s instruction. It may be hard at times, but the results are good. Do you view your suffering as part of God’s discipline and character development in your life? Trust that your heavenly Father administers all discipline with our best in mind. “For the LORD corrects those he loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights” (Prov 3:12).