God Has A Plan

We are all at different stages in our walk with God. We are at different levels of maturity regarding our understanding of God’s Word and His purpose for our lives.  Some have made a greater commitment to allow God to use them to further His kingdom.

We are running this race together, but we are all running at a different pace. We didn’t all begin at the same time. We encounter obstacles at different times. Some are better conditioned to run their race because victory in past circumstances has increased their spiritual stamina.

It’s common to feel frustration when we compare ourselves with others. We get discouraged when we feel opportunities come easily to others;  when we think their prayers are answered quickly and when spiritual maturity appears to come without a struggle.

We must remember that God has a plan for each individual.  And, because no two plans are the same, it makes sense that we are all on different timetables within God’s agenda.

In Hebrews 12:1-3, we see the reference to the race that we are presently running and the discipline that is needed to wait for God’s unique plan to be fulfilled in our lives:

Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we’d better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. 

Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. 

And now he’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls! (The Message)

Prayer: Dear Jesus, when I need inspiration and confidence that I can make it while running life’s race, help me remember the road that You took. The cross. The shame. The suffering. You did it all so that I could run this race with You as my strength.  You are cheering me on, every step of the way and I am so grateful!