The Race of Faith

By Deborah Somjak

 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize?

So run that you may obtain it. 1 Corinthians 9:24 ESV

Early in life, I learned that running is neither easy nor agreeable to my physical body.

Those who enjoy running know that consistency builds stamina for obtaining even the most minor win. However, it’s not without challenges. Are you willing to go the distance in hearing where this may lead? Rest assured, the Lord hears our hearts and the faint hesitations and lingering doubts regarding the ability to endure to the finish line.

In 1 Corinthians, Paul uses the word race to refer to the Greek Olympia, which is cleverly defined as a “set distance.” The Greek runners would have seen their starting point and finish line in the arena. The Lord has also given us a starting point. Our race begins when we believe by faith and trust Jesus as our Savior. I like to imagine this starting point as not the sound of a gunshot but a trumpet blast heard in heaven as the angels rejoice and welcome us onto the arena of faith. Our heavenly Father, forerunner, and coach has established our race as a set distance for us to obtain, and He sees us completing the race not solely for a win but as His reward.

Let’s face it, the race of faith has competing paths of difficulties and joys. Obstacles are circumstances outside our control such as illness, accusations, betrayal, and losses. We also face hurdles and hindrances exhibited by inward struggles—insecurity, shame, anxiety, and unforgiveness—that cause us to find the courage to take hold of that cup of water just waiting for us to refresh our souls and stay steady on the path, renewed by grace.

In this race, we learn valuable lessons from true athletes who respect the accomplishments of others, knowing there are challenges, defeats, and setbacks. Yet they honor their fellow competitors for continuing to step into the arena and stay the course. You may have witnessed one athlete’s extraordinary virtue of valor, which is displayed as one runner crosses lanes to assist another in regaining their footing and continuing to the finish line.

Likewise, we are being formed during our own individual race. This is a part of what our Creator has determined. Will we acquire a few bruises on the field of faith by our opponents? You can count on it. Our race may not look like the ceremonies of an Olympic arena with the rush of excitement, but 2 Timothy 4:7 (NKJV) implores us to keep going. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

We are created to finish, friend. It’s not the outward signs the Lord is after. The inward content,

His likeness, and the working of faith are being achieved as we run. When we arrive at the door of heaven, it will be revealed in all its fullness.

You are equipped to finish.