II Timothy 4:6-8

“The time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”

Most distance runners start strong. Everyone is together and they’re energetic and enthusiastic. 

Then after a while some get tired and begin to coast. Some get distracted and they veer completely off the course. Some stray from the pack and begin to run alone and slow way down. Some get frustrated by the course or other runners and they feel like quitting.

But some runners finish strong. Paul compares this runner to one who keeps fighting and who keeps the faith. This runner is motivated by something bigger than just the race. This runner has his eyes set on a Person and the crown that this Person will reward him with at the finish line. 

In fact, that Person is the model for the runner who will finish strong. 

Hebrews 12:1-3

“Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary and lose heart.”  

Question

How are you setting your eyes on Jesus as you run the race?