Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.–James 1:2-4
Young people today are commonly confused by discipline, seeing it as punishment rather than a virtue needed to train effectively. The will or discipline of a competitor can be seen in how he/she perseveres through tough times.
The 1992 Olympics produced some amazing stories, but one stood above all others. Derrick Redmond, a top competitor in the 400 meter, qualified for the finals. As the gun sounded and runners took off, Redmond pulled up with a torn leg muscle. Determined to finish, he hobbled around the track. At the third turn, his father came from the stands, fighting through officials, to escort him to the finish. When asked why they had to finish the race, Redmond replied, “We started this together, we finished this together.” Redmond had the will to never give up. Hebrews encourages us to throw off everything that slows us down and finish the race by keeping our eyes on the prize—Jesus Christ. Redmond and his father kept their eyes on the finish line. Do we keep our eyes on the finish line of faith? Our Heavenly Father wants us to have the will of a champion and not quit until we’ve made it successfully to the end. He is ready to carry us across the finish line.
1. Do you have the will to endure in your sport?
2. Do you have the spiritual discipline to fix your eyes on Jesus daily?
3. How can you get rid of what slows you down and finish strong?
Romans 5:2-5; 2 Timothy 4:8-10; Hebrews 12:1-2
Lord, help me as I experience various trials. By Your strength and wisdom I lack nothing. Help me to stay faithful so I can endure and be victorious over whatever the race of life throws my way. Amen.
