Prepare – Hebrews 12:1
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
Devotional
Let’s run the Lincoln marathon in May! These were the words of my enthusiastic wife just a few minutes after I had stuffed my face with turkey that fateful Thanksgiving day 5 years ago. Honestly, I looked at her like she was crazy. I had never run more than a few miles at a time, and at that time I was more of “a shape” than “in shape”. But as usual, my wife talked me into this crazy venture. The first run was grueling! It was two miles of huffing and puffing when I finally stepped off the treadmill:). The thing that kept me moving forward was the clear plan my wife had laid out for our training and the reward that would come from finishing the race. Day after day it was a challenge to persevere as two miles turned into 8, that turned into 16, that turned into 20! Through all the pain and lifestyle adjustments I kept my eyes fixed on the end goal. When I limped across the finish line the feelings of joy and jubilation made every moment of the journey worth it. God has laid out the plan and training required to finish this race. Through trials of all kinds he has given us His word to guide us to the finish line. Today may you keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith. May you plant your feet deeply into his word that you may persevere through the days we face ahead!
~ Pastor Nate Drege
Praise
Watch and listen to “Trust & Obey” by Chelsea Moon with the Franz Brothers and “Praise You In This Storm” by Casting Crowns.
