April 26th

The Christian life is a series of lessons which often seem to be interruptions to our forward motion. Sometimes we seem to be stalled for long periods and are left wondering and often complaining about the circumstances. Paul suggests that endurance is the secret, and the secret of endurance is preparation for the race. An athlete endures much hard work to prepare his body and mind for the contest. What makes us think that we need not be prepared and fit for our race? When forward motion stops, look for the lesson and learn it.

ONE TRUTH I KNOW
“The race is to the swift,” ’tis said,
“And rarely to the slow,”
That only if one speeds ahead
Will he the triumph know,
But in the contest known as life
Where fickle storm-winds blow,
Where every day is filled with strife,
With pitfalls and with woe,
It is the one who long endures,
Who struggles just to go,
It is the one whom life matures
Who does the progress show.
Each person does the race begin;
Each hears the Starter’s, “GO!”
But “giver-uppers” never win;
That is one truth I know.

Prayer: Dear Lord, teach me Your ways. Then help me to endure as I follow You.