~ Run With Patience ~

[Lani]

Hebrews 12:1-3

1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.



“Let us run with patience the race that is set before us.” Hebrews 12:1 (KJV)




For years I’ve been quoting Hebrews 12:1 incorrectly. From memory I always wrote it, “Run with patience the race that is set before you.” But the verse actually says us, not you. How could I have missed that? It means changing my whole outlook on how we come to be formed into Christ’s likeness. I’ve been looking at personal growth as taking place in isolation, when in fact, it’s both individual and corporate. And running the race corporately means we’re all running together, so it isn’t over until the last person crosses the finish line.

From now on, when I think of this verse, my mental picture of “running the race” will be a group of runners, not one person who finishes first. I will imagine mature leaders mixed among the runners, demonstrating how to improve. Encouragers throughout the group will urge on the members who are struggling. In the rear are the wise participants, assisting runners who’ve stumbled and fallen. Everyone will have a part to play in seeing others finish. And we will finish if all of us do our part.



Prayer: O God, forgive us for being concerned only about our own growth and maturity as believers. Show us how we can help our sisters and brothers move toward the finish line. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Prayer Focus of Day: Track-and-Field Athletes

Thought for the Day: Give thanks for your close companions on the journey of faith.

Story shared by: E Cardwell (CA)
Source: Upper Room Daily Devotional: 10/1/11