Hebrews 12:1-2

Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

- So, we are running a race.

- It is a marathon not a sprint

- We are to run with patience / endurance. Keeping our eyes on the right things, the Right Person helps greatly. Knowing He is faithful and won’t give up on us as our trainer is huge. He IS and HE WON’T... Praise God! (see Phil. 1:6)

- We are to run as unencumbered as possible. The decision to lay things of distraction aside is completely ours, we choose.
Sometimes we lay things down for a time, sometimes for good. You might carry a water bottle or cup for a few strides but not the whole race. Whatever it is, if its getting in the way of your walk with Jesus .. let it go ... Just Do It

- When we run we need the correct shoes for the terrain we are facing. A friend (a collegiate runner ...thanks Chris) told me wet surfaces would usually need longer spikes, cross country running shoes are different from “track” shoes. You are always looking for the best traction. The Roman soldier wore spike on his shoes to help him stand his ground in a fight. I suppose that today if you were in the military running an obstacle course you might be running in combat boots, that might seem 'clunky" for running but there is a reason, proven out in combat, traction and support matter.
The Holy Spirit is the “Ultimate Equipment Manager".  He will give you just exactly what you need to succeed in your race.

 one last thought
- Don’t let the runners around you be a distraction, you have a lane, and they have a lane stay in the one the directed you in. We’re all headed to Fathers house but sometimes the Shepherd leads us in different paths. He has different things for each of us to accomplish along our journey. Follow His direction.

Stay close, keep your eyes on Jesus, He will lead you to Victory.
Thank you Lord, thank you.

SELAH