IT’S A MARATHON ​NO​T A SPRINT!

Hebrews 12:1 (NIV) 12 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,

Isn’t it amazing in this journey of life, we often want to sprint to the blessings, sprint to the top, sprint to the desired destination, and yet God often requires us to train as we are running a marathon? A marathon requires strict training, disciplined focus, and a strategic plan. We often have to go through a process to learn what to do and what not to do so that we will not get disqualified from the race. So, what are those “what to do’s”?

1. When running a marathon, you have to take off what’s slowing you down and holding you back. Marathon runners always wear less as possible: running shorts, tank tops, and light running shoes. It’s not about looks, but more so about having the right equipment on. Sometimes we take on things that look good, but are not suited for where we are going in our journey; therefore, it slows us down. Make sure you have the proper equipment so that you won’t be hindered in your marathon race. 

2. Keep a steady pace in your marathon. You don’t start running a marathon in a sprint because you will tire out quickly and may not finish the marathon. Sometimes when we have a zeal about something in life, we start running before hearing the instructions from God about how to go about it. Not getting the proper instructions in your marathon could cause you not to complete the race that God has given you to run. You could be in the right race, but doing the wrong strategy. So, don’t sprint in a marathon. 

3. Don’t get distracted by the gun going off in the marathon. The gun lets you know when to start, but often hearing the sound of the gun or noise may distract you and cause you to get into someone else’s lane, causing you to be disqualified. If you are in someone else’s lane, it’s almost as if you are running their race and not yours. Don’t get distracted by the noise in your marathon. Stay focused and persevere through it all.