Life and faith are often described in Scripture as a race. Paul reminds us to “run in such a way that you may obtain it” (1 Corinthians 9:24 NKJV). But here’s the thing… too many of us step out of the race because we get distracted, frustrated, or even slack in our commitment.
It’s easy to blame others when things don’t go the way we hoped. It’s easy to point fingers at the church, the pastor, or the people sitting in the pew beside us. But the truth is, the only person responsible for our faithfulness is us.
God has called us to be part of His Church… not just to attend, but to serve, to love, to give, and to stay faithful. When we let our own agenda, comfort, or excuses take priority, we step away from what God is trying to do through us and through His church.
Here’s the good news: even if you’ve fallen behind, even if you’ve made mistakes, you don’t have to stay there. Take responsibility. Own it. Get back up and get back in the game.
Hebrews 12:1 urges us to “lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.”
The church isn’t perfect… but it is God’s design.
And when we remain faithful, even when it’s hard, God uses us in powerful ways.
Don’t let weariness, pride, or frustration stop you. Stay in the race. Finish well.
Pray this prayer with me today: Lord, help me to stay faithful. Forgive me when I’ve let my own agenda get in the way. Strengthen me to run my race with endurance, keeping my eyes on You. Amen.
Reflection:
Where have I been tempted to blame others instead of owning my responsibility to stay faithful to God’s call through His church?
Rev. Jonathan W. Pannell III 