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The Marathon
In the 1980 Boston Marathon, the first female to cross the finish line was a woman by the name of Rosie Ruiz. Amidst much cheering, she received the winner’s medal. But then it was noted that her legs and general appearance looked far too fresh to have run a 26-mile race. An investigation discovered that she had entered the race at the last mile. As a result, she was duly disqualified.
Now contrast Rosie Ruiz with those who begin a marathon and finish last. Often, they are cheered just as much as those who come in first. This is because everyone appreciates the quality of perseverance.
The Bible likens the believer’s life to a marathon race. We are told, “let us run with patience [endurance] the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1).The Lord wants consistency in our Christian life and testimony. At the end of Paul’s life he could say, “I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing” (2 Timothy 4:7-8).Will you be able to say that with confidence at the end of your Christian race?
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