Running the Race
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Have you ever had to study for a detailed exam? Preparing for a detailed exam can be compared to running a race. In a marathon, the runner spends much time preparing for it. This requires working out daily. The workout begins with warming up, stretching, and then daily practice runs. During this training, the runner’s diet is also important.
He or she eats nutritious foods, including lots of carbohydrates; drinks plenty of water; and gets adequate rest. When preparing for a detailed examination, great effort is also required. The individual spends much time in daily preparation, even late into the night or during early morning hours. Good nourishment is also required.
On the day of the exam, the individual should be well rested in order to reason out the answers to the questions. I will take my board certification examination in brain injury medicine next month. As I write this devotional, I am anticipating passing the exam, as I have been rigorously preparing for this test. It is not a simple test. I will have to endure seven hours of testing time. Because the test is challenging, I have spent countless hours in preparation during the past few years. I prepared by reading suggested textbooks, taking notes, and doing practice questions. I have also prayed that I would be prepared for the exam, recognize the answers from the information studied, and pass the examination. I have confidence that with the help of God, I will pass the test. Any worthwhile endeavor requires me to push myself.
It also requires developing endurance and resilience.
How many of us are prepared for the second coming of Jesus? Are we spending countless hours in personal Bible study and witnessing for Him? In this world, we put much energy into striving for a corruptible crown; how much more time should be spent in attaining an incorruptible one?
Mirlande Jordan
