Acts 20:24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
Have you ever seen a triathlon? I saw the finish of an Ironman competition on television, which involved 2.4 miles of swimming, 112 miles of biking, and 26.2 miles of running.
There was a young lady leading the pack, but suddenly within just a few feet of the finish line, she fell. Her legs were like noodles. She tried to get up and walk, but fell again. I wept as I watched her end the race in agony. She literally clawed her way to the finish line and sadly did not finish first.
If these men and women put themselves through this grueling race for a corruptible crown, God forbid that we should be any less the strong, spiritual athletes to which God is calling us. We’re dealing with life and death, heaven and hell, and the glory of God! Determine today that you will run the race and finish well.