Crossing the Finish Line

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

– Ephesians 6:12

If you’re into long-distance running, you’re probably familiar with The Wall — that barrier of mental and physical fatigue that athletes train for years to overcome. If successful, they’ll reach the finish line with power left to spare. Meanwhile, their unprepared competitors will drop out of the race in exhaustion and defeat.

As Christ-followers, we face our own barriers as we strive to live the ways that God desires. For example, while fighting to keep pace along our faith-journey, we battle against our natural tendencies to do what’s wrong (“sin”). We fail to follow Jesus’ guidance for loving our neighbors, helping the disadvantaged, and honoring God. And we’re also tempted to return to our old me-first lifestyle.

It’s a real struggle between the selfish stuff we know we shouldn’t do versus the ultimately world-changing things we can and should do. And as with any ongoing struggle, fatigue eventually ensues. The apostle Paul describes this state as internal warfare that pits good against evil. And through his own initiatives, he knew he’d certainly lose the battle. But Paul had a dynamic weapon that assured his ultimate victory — something that’s also available to you and me.

It’s called the Holy Spirit, which is God’s power in every believer. Think of it as that personal force that enables us to do or say the things we never could before, overcome seemingly insurmountable odds, and generally do the impossible. In fact, the Bible says it’s the same power that raised Jesus from the dead after his crucifixion.

If you’re a Christ-follower, let the Holy Spirit empower you, make the most of your life, and take you the whole distance along your faith-journey. Be alert to his teachings and leadings, and understand that they can come from just about anywhere. It might be a Bible passage that reveals itself with new meaning. Or maybe it’s a spiritual truth that arises through a discussion at your Bible study. Moreover, the Holy Spirit can speak through a conversation with a friend, relative, or stranger — or even out of random circumstances in the workplace. 

Do you have the Power you need to make it across the finish line in this long-distance race called life? It’s closer than you think. And all you have to do is ask!