Race Runner by Alisha Ritchie

The race of life isn’t easy. My guest, Alisha Ritchie gives rich insights into God’s perspective on what we can accomplish in life. 

 

 

 

2MefromHim Devotional

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up.  And let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us. Hebrews 12:1 NLT

“Running is addictive.” Several friends have uttered those words to me. I always smile and nod in agreement although I totally don’t get it.  I want to love to run.  I adore the cute shoes and sporty running outfits. I want to feel carefree as I trot down the road with the wind blowing my hair. The 5K and marathon themed races look so fun and exciting.  Most of all, I crave the strength and endurance that encompasses running.

I tried sprinting with friends in the past. I have taken running classes. Now my daughter has volunteered to be my running partner. We jog together on our road and she is pushing me to increase my endurance, to test my limits. My heart races and my breathing labored. I sweat profusely and my leg muscles ache. Honestly, running is a lot of hard work- it does not come naturally to me at all. But I keep trying because I know, eventually, I will get the results I want.

My running career sparks the memory of a verse from Hebrews, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up.  And let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us.” God tells us that the race of life will not be easy. It involves strenuous work. There will be obstacles or sin that cause us to stumble along the way. But He also gives us encouragement to keep going with perseverance. Do not give up and keep focused on the task of doing God’s will as it is laid out before you. Be inspired to do your very best today in the race in which you are participating. Maybe God is calling you to turn over sin in your life to Him. Let Him carry the burden so that excess weight doesn’t prohibit your performance.

So for now, I’m running the race on my street and the race of life that God has set before me. Both are difficult at times, but both also greatly rewarding. I am still waiting for running to become an addiction, but who knows?  Anything is possible with God.

About the author:

Alisha Ritchie is a wife, mother of two wonderful children, Physical Therapy Assistant by profession, and dedicated church member and Sunday School teacher.  She resides in the small town of Stanfield, North Carolina, where she enjoys writing, spending time with her children, and ministering to others through her work and small group Bible studies.  You can read other devotions by Alisha at www.christiandevotions.us.