Encouraged To Keep Running

My Utmost For His Highest

 

‘God will not give us good habits or character, and He will not force us to walk correctly before Him. We have to do all that ourselves. We must “work out” our “own salvation” which God has worked in us (Philippians 2:12). Add means that we must get into the habit of doing things, and in the initial stages that is difficult. To take the initiative is to make a beginning— to instruct yourself in the way you must go.’ CHAMBERS

 

Wouldn’t it be nice if you could just take a pill and “poof” you were spiritual for the next year … no worries … living by faith.  Trusting in God.  Overflowing with the fruit of the Spirit.  (Galatians 5:22-25) Yes, wouldn’t that make things simple?  Most people from the United States would like it … very convenient …. Or maybe like a fast food drive through … “Yes can I take your order?” “Uh, I would like three “happy meals”, and two peace patties … and would you super-size them?”  But God has another way … It is not handed to us … we must work at it . . apply ourselves .. make it a discipline. Our spiritual growth must be a priority or growth will not take place.   But sometimes we need encouragement.

 

When I was training as a new lieutenant, we had to take physical fitness tests.  Part of that test was a two mile run.  We would run around a ¼ mile track.  A friend of mine was not in very good shape and was to going to finish.  I slowed down to encourage him to not quit.  The scorers were yelling at me to leave him and finish the run .. but I would not … the point of this is not that I am a hero … the point is, he finished .. but had to be encouraged … he needed someone to come alongside him when he felt he could not take another step.

 

This race that we are running requires that we give it our all.  But sometimes we need encouragement. Who has God brought across your path that needs encouragement? Too busy?  Have your own responsibilities?  John 15:13 Jesus says “lay your life down for others”

 

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”

 

Bondye Beni Ou (God Bless You)