“In a race everyone runs, but only one person gets first prize. So run your race to win.” ~ 1 Corinthians 9:24 TLB

Marathon-ers are a dedicated bunch

They train faithfully, in all kinds of weather—always with that focused attention to detail that produces winners. Some hire coaches to help them train, stay focused on the goal, and endure to the end. Coaches are encouragers, but sometimes they are tough and tell you what you don’t want to hear, in order to help you be the best you can be, because they believe in your potential.

Marathon running

It can be grueling before, during, and after the event. One friend actually lost a toe as a result of being determined to finish the race. She persevered in spite of the pain. Maybe even because of it. She had worked so hard to get to this point. She simply could not give up! Would not give up!

Water stations

The water stations along the way are an oasis. Along with the refreshment of the water, they are also a place to receive encouragement to persevere from friends, family, and your coach. People cheer the runners on at these refreshment stations. It is critical to be reminded of the goal to finish.

Related Post: Marathon Running

Run Your Race

Isaiah 40:29-31

“He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might, He increases strength…But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength…
They shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.”

Time on this earth

As followers of Christ being “earth-bound” can seem like training for a marathon. It is critical to keep focused toward the goal. Like running coaches for the marathon runner, Christian Life Coaches help Christ-followers to hold their focus toward their goals: “Forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead…the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:14). Paul also said in that same verse: “…but one thing I do…”

Is that the one thing we do?

Do we earth-bound humans press on with our eye toward the goal of spending eternity with Jesus? Is that our joy and focus? Do we love Him enough to go through what is sometimes the loneliness that accompanies grueling training before, during, and after the event of “going home to be with the Lord”? Are we willing to lose a toe—or worse—in the process? Or are we distracted toward the worldly prizes more than the heavenly ONE? Do we try to take shortcuts because the training is so hard?!

Are You Running Your Race?

Today is a new day!

Let’s keep cheering one another on. This is a great day for a fresh start with a fresh perspective. Which marathon are YOU running? And which prize do you most value?

I’d love to hear from you.

Have you done any marathon running? How have you found it to compare to the walk of a disciple of Christ? Would you like a coach to cheer you on and help you stay focused?

Until next time,
Awaiting His shout,


Christian Life Coach
Leading from Your Strengths Mentor
www.loavesandfishescoaching.com