Running the (Proper) Race
More than once in the New Testament, the Christian life is compared to a race. Countless sermons have been preached using that illustration, reminding people of faith to run their race and to make certain that they cross the finish line.
However, one thing that must also be emphasized is that we have to run the proper race. A runner recently learned that the hard way.
For a few moments not long ago, it seemed that Usain Bolt’s world record in the 200-meter dash had not only been broken, but shattered. The record has stood since 2009, when Bolt ran that distance in a jaw-dropping 19.19 seconds. Recently, though, a runner crossed the line in a 200-meter race at an astonishing 18.90 seconds. Not only was he the winner, but it was clear that he had crushed the world record time.
All that was true until it was discovered that the runner, Noah Lyles, had started the race from the wrong lane and, due to the place where he started being closer to the finish line, he had only run 185 meters instead of 200. He was disqualified and another runner was declared the winner. Bolt’s world record time still remains on the books. [Source]
What race am I really running?
Some try to run in the rat race, and think that building up wealth is a sign of God’s favor.
Some try to run in the popularity race, and think that, if they get everyone to like them, that means that God must like them, too.
Some try to run in the holier-than-thou race, and think that they just have to be “more righteous” than everyone else in order to win God’s approval.
But the fact of the matter is, we are simply to run the race that is set before us, with our eyes firmly fixed on Him (see Hebrews 12:1-2). That means it will be an arduous race. That means it will be a race with rules and boundaries. That means it will be a race of humility and forgiveness.
And it means it has already been run, so I don’t have to try to make up my own “lane.” I simply must do my best to walk in the path He already has laid before me.
So, how am I running?
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AUTHOR: Adam Faughn
