The Race We Run: A Word on Strength & Endurance

This week, my devotional has been all about strength. And today's scripture brought a new word to the conversation.

"Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love Him." James 1:12

This verse tells us to endure temptation, not submit to it. And any time the word endurance is used, I can't help but think of my favorite verse, 2 Timothy 4:7

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

This Christian life is a race. It certainly feels like one, doesn't it? The thing about races is, they always have a finish line.

I used to view marriage as the finish line--the end of one race and the beginning of another. In my mind, the race prior to marriage was a sprint. How much life can I live before my priorities change and I'm suddenly responsible for a family? How many countries can I visit? How many solo trips can I take? How many books can I write? And as I've gotten closer to God, I ask, how impactful of a life can I live before my impact is solely focused on the family I'm trying to nurture?

In contrast, I viewed the race I'd begin as a wife as a marathon. No sprinting, just pacing. Roles of wife and mother would be first. Everything else would be de-prioritized. And it's not that there wouldn't be bumps in the road, but I wouldn't be chasing a finish line. I would've already arrived.

When life feels like a never-ending sprint, exhaustion and frustration are certain. But when we realize life isn't separated into multiple races, but a singular journey, the perspective changes.

To better understand the perspective swirling in my mind, I drew it: a winding path that represents one singular journey and all the stops along the way--including the sharp turns and apparent deadends. I listed not only my current priorities but where I see myself headed. Strengthening family relationships. Self-work. Writing and speaking. Traveling. Seeing the beauty in temporary encounters. Building friendships. Serving God. Expansion of purpose-driven work. Volunteering. What you can also see is:

• the race continues beyond what I can see

• there are segments where a lot is happening quickly,

• and others where it appears nothing is happening at all

• rest and reflection, just like the Sabbath, is part of the race

• getting it wrong and trying again are also part of the race

Sometimes we fear making a wrong turn because we think it sets us back. We think our mistakes mean we have to begin again. When you've been sprinting toward the finish line only to be met with an apparent deadend, you may feel defeated. But what seems like a deadend or a wrong turn doesn't mean you have to backtrack or start again.

With God, every step you take is a step forward.

Even in the seasons when you feel like nothing is happening, when you're running a long-stretch that feels like it'll never end, keep going.

Even when the figurative deer jumps into your path and you have to swerve to avoid a collision, keep going.

Let ENDURANCE be your word of the day.

This drawing, this perspective has helped me so much. Right now, I find myself in a season of rest and reflection but I'm still carrying the lessons, the passions of everything that came before. I'm still excited about where my writing will take me and how God is getting ready to use me as a writer. I'm excited about future trips, and beginning to plan my next one. I'm eager to return to serving and expand how I serve / volunteer.

I'm in a season of looking back, looking forward, and standing still all at once. But soon enough, I'll put on my running shoes again. I guess the truth is, they never really come off.

If you were to draw your own race, just the path that you can see now, what priorities or milestones would you include? What do you hope is around the corner?

If you know me or have been a long-time reader, you probably know what I'd include.

• marriage

• motherhood

• more travels

• children's books

• more writing-related ministry work

• being a role model for younger generations

• continued service to the Lord

Unlike before, I no longer view this as a separate race, but additions to MY race, additions to MY purpose. Additions not replacements or substitutions. The thing about additions, you have to have capacity to carry them. And so, now the question is no longer: When will this end? When will I finally get what I've been longing for? Rather, I consider how can I carry it all?

I believe God is building a foundation in my life that can bear the weight of all He plans to add to my life, so that I can endure the race without being crushed and consumed by it.

That is my prayer today.

Lord, build a foundation in my heart that can withstand the weight of all you plan to give me, because Your bounty is full, plentiful, vibrant, and endlessly good. I wish to receive what You offer without being consumed by it. I wish to endure the race You have laid before me without being exhausted or discouraged by it. Guide me, Lord. Teach me that rest isn't bad. Teach me to not fear mistakes when You're the One leading. Remind me that slow seasons are part of the race, that each day is a step forward, and nothing is wasted in Your hands. Remind me to keep trying when I feel like I'm doing nothing but failing. Remind me that good things are right around the corner, but to enjoy the bounty of every season. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Claim this prayer for yourself if you need to. 🤍

Until next time,

Emily