Week Two – Day 5
TODAY’S FAST – Fast from All Junk Foods, Desserts, Sweets, and Sodas
Devotional:
Everyone says “no” to some things so they can say “yes” to other things. Some will say “no” to family so they can say “yes” to career advancement. Others will say “no” to integrity so they can say “yes” to gratification. Sacrifice and discipline are essential to attaining anything whether you are to attain something noble or foolish. We have a mandate to run without losing focus and without sacrificing things that we must not sacrifice. We must say “yes” and “no” to the proper things.
Part of understanding Hebrews 12:1-3 is realizing that we aren’t alone in all of this. Many have gone before and many compete on our team alongside of us. If you are running alone, you’re probably in the wrong race. Many have sacrificed personal gain, pleasure, or fame so they may seek Jesus in a way that honors Him. There have been many who have not run well and have sacrificed passion, integrity, or credibility because they were running after the things of this world while at the same time hoping to gain the next.
How are you running? Where are you running? Who are you running with? If you are seeking to run after Jesus, these are questions that must be answered in light of Scripture. Answering them honestly will no doubt cause us to bow before God in repentance, and rise to shake off the things that have encumbered us. Let us run well, as those seeking a prize.
Prayer Focus:
Pray for perseverance in your race of faith, that you may finish strong and honor and glorify God in your life
Key Verse:
“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, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” Hebrews 12:1-3 NIV
