Notes of Faith May 22, 2024
Running on Sand
Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. — 1 Corinthians 9:25 NIV
Ask any runner — the beach offers challenging terrain.
Some run barefoot while others wear shoes, but those who appear to stride effortlessly have been at it a while. They have had to train and build up strength to make it look so easy.
Running on a softer surface requires better balance and more energy from the muscles involved. There are plenty of risks too, such as sprains, strains, and puncture wounds. So why do it?
The payoff is worth it! These runners improve their strength, they experience less impact on their joints, and they burn more calories per mile. Training on a beach can literally put more spring in their step when they run on a hard surface like asphalt.
At times, running the race God sets for each of us seems more difficult than living a mediocre, milquetoast life.
But if the races of faith were easy, everyone would be running them.
As Paul explained, our race centers around one goal — a life that’s pleasing to God, achieved by “strict training” — and one prize — “A crown that will last forever.”
Challenging terrain aside, aren’t God’s pleasure and an everlasting reward worth everything?
Father God, help me to persevere when I’m weary and to keep my eyes on the end result.
Excerpted from Devotions from the Beach, copyright Thomas Nelson.
I grew up in West Torrance, CA., and used to run cross country and track in high school. Unbelievable, I know, looking at me now, but it is true. We ran from the school to the beach, one mile, then from the Torrance beach to the El Segundo pier and back, somewhere between thirteen and fifteen miles total. If we did well running on the soft sand, the coach let us run back on the harder surface near the water, and even let us go in the water, if we desired. Unfortunately, I was not a top contender and found myself running on the soft sand the entire way. But having done the work, I was usually in the top seven of our competitive races… and the coach was pleased! I am still trying to run the race of life, but to please my heavenly Father, my Savior, my Comforter, my Coach. He lovingly leads, guides, and directs my heart, my mind, my decisions and actions that I might be pleasing in His sight and receive a reward beyond all earthly treasures. Run well with me. Keep running, and trust your heavenly Coach, who loves you and sacrificially gave His best for your sake!
Pastor Dale