Joy

By: Elizabeth Haarberg

Hang on to Peace and Joy

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this SoundCloud link.

Life is an adventure. I thought at one time that it was all about the ending but now I realize the journey is where the action is and where change happens. The finish line of a race is wonderful if you win, but the work to get there is where character is built.

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,” Hebrews 12:1 ESV

So, what is the race? There are many small races, but they are all building on one big one: the race of eternal life, which starts now but doesn’t end until we take our last breath.

We can run many small races at once. The race of creating a family, a career, a social and spiritual life are some examples. The character we do or do not develop through the races we run is imperative for the marathon race of life.

“But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” Matthew 24:13 ESV

The good news about the race is we are renewed every morning to start again.

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases: his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV

Run the race, every day. Get up in the morning and renew yourself, rededicate yourself to God’s desires. This is how we eventually finish well.

“God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13 ESV

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado

About Elizabeth Haarberg

Elizabeth Williams Haarberg lives in Kearney, Nebraska with her husband and four children. She has lived in many places but has found her true home with God.