Daily Devotional for Saturday, October 3
The Blessings That Await Us
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,” 1 Peter 1:3.
Life is a marathon, not a sprint. I have no clue where that phrase came from, but it makes an important point. I have no personal knowledge of this, but I am told that a marathon is long, challenging and difficult, with some ups and downs along the way. I am told that keeping one’s eyes on the goal and the finish line is quite helpful along the way. I am also told that the desire to quit the race is quite common, but when that finish line is crossed, all the pain and difficulty become worth it. Paul used sports metaphors to describe the Christian life because they fit so well.
This time, Peter was writing to us. He did not use any metaphors; he just told it like it was. He related to us many ways in which we are to live our lives for the Lord Jesus Christ, and began by telling us why it mattered. He was telling us in advance to keep our eyes on the finish line.
Living as God would have us live is His expectation of us. If we live in obedience to His plan and His commands, we will live in peace and harmony with our Heavenly Father. Where we run into snags is that sometimes living a good Christian life makes our earthly lives seem difficult. Sometimes living the good Christian life brings earthly problems.
Do not quit. When the race you are called to run seems hard, and you think you cannot do it, just remember who strengthens you and what awaits you. Keep your eyes on the finish line.
Just a Thought
Keep your eyes on the prize; it will be worth it in the end.
Wally Fry