Philippians 3:12-14: So let’s keep focused on that goal, those of us who want everything God has for us. If any of you have something else in mind, something less than total commitment, God will clear your blurred vision—you’ll see it yet! Now that we’re on the right track, let’s stay on it. Stick with me friend. Keep track of those you see running this same course, headed for this same goal. (The Message)

In every race, there is a starting line. It is important for each runner to find their mark. I remember watching a specific race on television and one of the runners mistakenly tried to line up in the wrong lane. Obviously the race didn’t start until he found “his mark”. Have you found “YOUR” mark?

With the world’s population of almost six and a half billion, no two people have the same fingerprints. Not even identical twins. Yet another example of how special we are to God. We are the apple of His eye. He delicately designed each of us in His own image and yet blessed us with unique traits. What an amazing God! There is only one of you! There is nobody else like you! Celebrate your uniqueness. God has a perfect plan….. Just for you! Jeremiah 29:11 tells us of those plans. He wants to give you hope, a future and prosperity. He wants your race to go well! It doesn’t matter who you are or what you’ve done. You can learn from the past but you don’t have to live in it.

I remember hearing at a young age, “You can be anything you want to be”! That is not true. Each of us has individual God-given strengths. We must recognize what those are and allow God to mold us as we serve Him. Still, it is up to you to make the right choices. You have to get on “YOUR” mark. You have to decide if you’ll submit to God and His word. You have to be disciplined to run, to stay in the race and to finish the course. It will not always be easy. Sometimes you’ll have to run uphill. Sometimes the course may seem lonely. At times, you might be running and not see what’s around the corner. There will be hurdles trying to trip you up. Don’t be discouraged. Don’t give up! God promises us in Hebrews 13:5 that He would never leave us or forsake us.

Our nephew Tavita Pritchard is the quarterback for the University of Stanford. Two years ago he led the Cardinals to a made-for-Hollywood win over then #1 USC Trojans. It was a story for the ages. Some called it the biggest upset in college football history. As I watched Tavita being interviewed shortly after the game, I was so proud of him. Someone from ESPN asked him, “What were you thinking out there?” “What were you doing?” Tavita responded, “We just do what we do?” In essence, that’s what God asks of you and me. You do you! Let me do me!

Find “YOUR” mark! Stay focused on the goal. Run your race with faith and discipline. Encourage those you see running this same course. Remember, God who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it.

Until next week,
Faith for the Race!