For the past 2 weeks, we have been blessed to have had Matthew Parson and Aaron Richardson bring God’s Word to the Church of Impact. And both times, the Word has been current and relevant for the season that we are in.
Matthew brought a Word about ‘perseverance in the race.’ In a race, an athlete has to train well to have a chance of completing the race as well as winning the race. We were reminded with several scriptures of the importance of running this race well. In Hebrews 12 verse 1, we read: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us”
To run this race well, let us ask what is hindering us? What is preventing us from running for Christ well? The writer of Hebrews is reminding us – ” throw it off, get rid of it!” And then, when we run for Christ with all perseverance, we can expect a crown, as it is written in 1 Corinthians chapter 9, verse 24:- “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it“
To run this race requires dedication. Aaron reminded us recently that this year, let us GO DEEPER! Deeper in all things of God. Let us be in the river of the Holy Spirit and be determined to come out of the shallow end, go waist high and be immersed in Him. Spending time in the Bible, reading regularly and being devoted to learn from The Word. The Word and The Spirit combined is powerful and we can depend on God to strengthen us. In Psalm 1 verse 3, we see the result of one being in the presence of God and His River:-
He is like a tree
planted by streams of water
that yields its fruit in its season,
and its leaf does not wither.
In all that he does, he prospers.
Let us remain firmly in Christ, His Word and living By His Holy Spirit. Then we have the training and tools to run the race that has been marked out for us! Then we can one day, be with others as we celebrate together!!! With Jesus!!!! Hallelujah!!!
