The Christian Race

A recreational activity that has become increasingly popular over the last several decades is running. It may be surprising, but running has become quite a cultural phenomenon. In fact, over the last 50 years, sneakers have dominated the market, and today more than 800 marathons are conducted annually. It has also been reported that over 620 million people worldwide consider themselves to be runners. All that being said, we recognize not everyone prefers running. Truth be told, some might even find it repulsive. Did you know though, as Christians we are called to be runners? In fact, four times throughout the New Testament the Christian is compared to a runner. Now, all of these passages are distinct and unique in their own right, but the analogy that is consistently made is the Christian life is like a race. With that in mind, let us consider what it takes for a Christian to run the spiritual race from Hebrews 12:1, 2.

First, in order to run the Christian race there must be a shedding of sin. When you think about it, runners do a lot to prepare for a race. Most runners will buy the lightest shoes, they will wear the most aerodynamic clothes, and they drop any excess weight. Obviously, runners do this because they want to complete the race with as little hinderance as possible. The question is, are we doing the same for our spiritual race? In Hebrews 12:1 the Bible says, “let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us.” Brethren, if we believe we are going to be able to complete the Christian race with sin in our lives, we are sadly mistaken. Time and time again, Scripture calls the Christian to dump their sin and strive to live blamelessly (Rom. 6:1, 2; Philp. 2:15). If we want to receive the crown that is given to those who complete the race of faith, we must shed our sin (1 Cor. 9:25)!

Second, in order to run the Christian race there must be steadfastness. One of the most popular races today is the marathon. The great expanse of 26.2 miles stands between the runner and the finish line. Year after year millions of people sign up to run that race, and do you want to know what all those who complete that race have in common? They all have steadfastness, a trait every Christian must have if they are going to complete the spiritual race. In Hebrews 12:1 the writer continues by saying, “let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.” Brethren, far too many Christians think faithful living is going to be a cakewalk. However, we can never forget faithful living is a serious challenge that requires steadfastness. Here is the question, when trials and tribulations come your way, will you have the steadfastness to keep running (James 1:2)? When you are faced with a difficult commandment, will you have the steadfastness to keep running (Matt. 19:10)? When you are struggling with challenges of Christianity, will you have the steadfastness to keep running. In order to run the Christian race we must be steadfast.

Finally, in order to run the Christian race there must be a sight set on our Savior. In Hebrews 12:1, 2 the Bible says, “let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.” Truly, the best thing a Christian can do in running the race of faith is to fix their eyes upon Christ. When we look at Jesus, we are encouraged to shed our sin and keep it off, because He knew no sin (2 Cor. 5:21). When we look at Jesus, we are encouraged to remain steadfast, because He endured the cross (Heb. 12:2). When our sight is set on the Savior, we have the best example we could ever have to complete the Christian race!

In recent years running has become more and more popular, but let us never forget what race is most important. The Christian race is long, challenging, and often daunting, but if we will shed our sin, remain steadfast, and fix our sight on the Savior, we can all receive the crown of life waiting at the finish line.