This is Part 3 of 4 in the eBook, entitled, Ready, Steady, Go. In Parts 1 and 2 we discussed that life is a race, divided into three kinds of races: the sports race, the human race (the race of life), and the spiritual race. Part 1 looked at the sports race. Part 2, the human race and now Part 3 will look at the spiritual race.
The Spiritual Race
Finally, let us delve into our spiritual race. As I have emphasised, this cannot be separated from the human race. Genesis 1:27 reminds us we are created in God’s image, with a clear purpose. Matthew 28:19 tells us to go out and make disciples of all nations, baptising and teaching them. This purpose is not reserved just for adults as even our eight-year-old granddaughter already understands her purpose and daily makes a difference.
Our culture and mentors – our parents and those around us – shape our understanding. God’s Word teaches us to carry over His truths from generation to generation, bringing people to love God, study His Word, and to truly know Him. This is what life is about. We have this obligation throughout all stages of life. Even as children, we live out this calling, though we may not articulate it. I recently saw a video of a child who had an encounter with Christ and wanted to spread the gospel. This is only possible through the Spirit of God.
Like any race, the spiritual race involves encounters. Whether one-on-one or in groups, we need interactions that feed our spirit through God’s Word. While we have a responsibility to bring others into the family of Christ, we must also be mindful of who we spend our time with. If our interactions constantly feed us the wrong things, how will our spirit grow? We need to cleanse ourselves spiritually and follow a healthy spiritual diet, feeding our minds and bodies with God’s Word and spending time with people who build us up. These relationships are critical for growth in Christ.
Our faith is paramount in this race. We do not choose to follow Christ based on visible proof; it is all about faith. We are fed by faith, believing and receiving the gospel. We go through trials and tribulations, which are part of our training. We might stumble and fall, but we get up and persevere. We run this race because we know we have a goal and a purpose. We also realise that we are not running alone; there are others in the body of Christ running alongside us. The key difference is that we do not compete with them. You have your own race to run; a unique purpose God has given you.
Our spiritual ability, fuelled by faith, prayer, intercession, and perseverance, is our training. We need spiritual food, to forgive, to bless, and to help others heal. There will be hindrances, as in any race. The question is, what do you do when you hit a hindrance? Do you give up, or do you press on? From embryo to senior stage, if you live the full life God has planned, you will encounter hindrances. What matters is whether you give up or keep going. You will only receive the Crown of Victory when you see the race through that God has planned for you (see James 1:12).
Keep an eye out for Part 4, the final Part of the eBook, entitled, Ready, Steady, Go!
Love in Christ
Princess K