“For the report of your obedience has reached everyone; therefore I am rejoicing over you, but I want you to be wise in what is good, and innocent in what is evil. The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.” Romans 16:19-20
Cross country running requires endurance, being steady in your effort even as you face the challenges of the hills and weariness that make you want to give up. You must pace yourself to run the whole race well, and you need a mindset to push through even as you get sore from the task. This is the type of endurance that is also needed in the Christian life. Even with the great encouragement Paul gave the church in Rome, he was also quick to remind them to keep up the good work. He wanted them to continue in wisdom and walking in the way of the Lord.
Godly service places demand on our body and minds as we are diligent in this way. Even as we grow tired, we are challenged to press on in obedience to the Lord. Hebrews 12:1-2 says, “Therefore, since we also have such a great cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let’s rid ourselves of every obstacle and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let’s run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking only at Jesus, the originator and perfecter of the faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Looking to Jesus is key to our endurance. This doesn’t mean we never need to take a break for a season of rest. But Christ will provide what we need for a life characterized by enduring service. When we keep our eyes on our own ability or how far we have to go, we become overwhelmed, but in Christ we are reminded of the One who is with us and equips us every step of the way.
- When have you experienced burnout from serving? When have you felt energized to continue living in God’s way? How did both of those times impact you?
- How can you fix your eyes on Jesus in everyday life? What makes that challenging?
- Pray for people who are struggling in their faith, that they will receive endurance to continue in the Lord.
