RUNNING THE RACE
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Hebrews 12:1-2
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith."
Supporting Texts:
- 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
- Philippians 3:13-14
- 2 Timothy 4:7-8
- Galatians 5:7
- Isaiah 40:31
INTRODUCTION:
The Christian journey is often described as a race. Unlike earthly competitions where only one person wins, in the race of faith, every believer who runs well and endures to the end will receive the prize of eternal life. However, this race is not a sprint but a marathon that requires endurance, discipline, and a constant focus on Jesus Christ.
Many start the race well but get distracted, discouraged, or entangled by the things of this world. Others lose their way or even quit entirely. In this sermon, we will explore how to run our race effectively, the challenges we may encounter, and how to finish strong.
1. PREPARING TO RUN THE RACE
Before any athlete competes, they must prepare themselves physically and mentally. Similarly, believers must prepare spiritually for the race of faith.
a) Laying Aside Every Weight (Hebrews 12:1)
Sin and distractions can slow us down or even stop us from progressing in our faith. We must intentionally remove anything that hinders our spiritual growth.
b) Running with Endurance (1 Corinthians 9:24)
The Christian race is not for the faint-hearted. It requires patience, persistence, and the willingness to keep going even when faced with trials.
c) Strengthening Our Spiritual Muscles (Jude 1:20)
We must build ourselves up in faith through prayer, the Word of God, and fellowship with other believers.
d) Developing the Right Mindset (Romans 12:2)
A renewed mind helps us stay focused on God's purpose, rather than being conformed to worldly distractions.
e) Biblical Example: The Wise and Foolish Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13)
The wise virgins were prepared for the bridegroom’s arrival, while the foolish ones were not. In the same way, we must be spiritually prepared for the race ahead.
2. FOCUSING ON THE FINISH LINE
A runner does not look back but keeps their eyes fixed on the goal. As believers, we must stay focused on Christ.
a) Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus (Hebrews 12:2)
Jesus is our ultimate example. He endured the cross for the joy set before Him, and we must also endure trials with our eyes set on Him.
b) Pressing Towards the Goal (Philippians 3:13-14)
We should forget past failures and distractions, pressing forward to fulfil God's purpose in our lives.
c) Running with the Right Perspective (Colossians 3:2)
If our focus is on temporary things, we will easily be discouraged. But when our eyes are set on eternity, we remain steadfast.
d) Running in Obedience to God's Will (Galatians 5:7)
Paul asked the Galatians, "You were running a good race. Who cut in on you to keep you from obeying the truth?" Many start well but later get distracted by sin, false teachings, or personal desires.
e) Biblical Example: Peter Walking on Water (Matthew 14:28-31)
As long as Peter kept his eyes on Jesus, he walked on water. But the moment he focused on the wind and waves, he began to sink.
3. OVERCOMING CHALLENGES IN THE RACE
Every race has obstacles, but those who endure will receive the prize.
a) Dealing with Trials and Persecutions (James 1:2-4)
Difficulties are part of the journey, but they build our endurance and strengthen our faith.
b) Overcoming Discouragement (Isaiah 40:31)
Waiting on the Lord renews our strength and keeps us from growing weary.
c) Resisting Temptations (1 Corinthians 10:13)
God always provides a way of escape when temptations arise. We must remain vigilant and resist the enemy.
d) Avoiding Spiritual Laziness (Proverbs 24:30-34)
An athlete who refuses to train will fail. Likewise, spiritual laziness leads to stagnation and defeat.
e) Biblical Example: The Israelites in the Wilderness (Numbers 14:1-4)
Many Israelites started their journey to the Promised Land but never finished due to disobedience, doubt, and complaining.
4. DISCIPLINING OURSELVES FOR THE RACE
Self-discipline is necessary for finishing strong.
a) Exercising Spiritual Discipline (1 Corinthians 9:27)
Paul disciplined his body and brought it under control so he wouldn’t be disqualified.
b) Running According to the Rules (2 Timothy 2:5)
Athletes must compete according to the rules, and so must we. God's Word is our guideline.
c) Staying in the Race Even When We Stumble (Proverbs 24:16)
A righteous person may fall seven times but rises again. Failure is not the end if we repent and keep going.
d) Surrounding Ourselves with the Right People (Proverbs 27:17)
Just as athletes train with other athletes, believers must be surrounded by godly friends who encourage them.
e) Biblical Example: Daniel’s Discipline (Daniel 1:8)
Daniel refused to defile himself with the king’s food, showing discipline and commitment to God's standards.
5. FINISHING THE RACE STRONG
The ultimate goal is to finish well and receive the eternal reward.
a) Keeping the Faith Until the End (2 Timothy 4:7-8)
Paul declared, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” We must aim for the same testimony.
b) Receiving the Crown of Life (James 1:12)
Those who endure will be rewarded with the crown of life in eternity.
c) Being Found Faithful at Christ’s Return (Matthew 25:21)
On the final day, may we hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant!”
d) Holding On to Eternal Life (1 Timothy 6:12)
We must fight the good fight and take hold of the promise of eternal life.
e) Biblical Example: Jesus Finishing His Mission (John 19:30)
Jesus declared, “It is finished.” He completed the work of salvation, and we are called to finish our race as well.
CONCLUSION:
The Christian life is a race that requires endurance, focus, discipline, and faithfulness. We must lay aside every weight, fix our eyes on Jesus, overcome obstacles, and finish strong. No matter the challenges, God has given us the strength to complete our journey. Run with perseverance, for a great reward awaits those who finish well.
PRAYER POINTS:
- Lord, give me the strength to run my race with endurance.
- Father, remove every weight and sin that slows me down.
- Lord, help me to stay focused on Jesus, my ultimate goal.
- Father, strengthen me to overcome trials and temptations.
- Lord, renew my spiritual energy and keep me from growing weary.
- Father, help me to discipline myself in prayer, fasting, and studying Your Word.
- Lord, surround me with godly people who will encourage me in my race.
- Father, let me not be disqualified from the race of faith.
- Lord, grant me the grace to finish strong and receive my crown.
- Father, let my life bring glory to You as I run this race.
PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
- You will not fall or fail in the race of life.
- Every weight slowing you down is removed in Jesus’ name.
- You will run with divine strength and not grow weary.
- Your focus will remain on Jesus, and you will not be distracted.
- No obstacle will stop you from finishing your race.
- You will overcome every challenge by the power of God.
- You will receive your crown of glory in eternity.
- You will finish strong and fulfil your divine purpose.
- Every attack against your spiritual progress is destroyed.
- You will hear “Well done, good and faithful servant” on the last day!
Amen!
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