Therefore then, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who have borne testimony to the Truth], let us strip off and throw aside every encumbrance (unnecessary weight) and that sin which so readily (deftly and cleverly) clings to and entangles us, and let us run with patient endurance and steady and active persistence the appointed course of the race that is set before us, Hebrews 12:1 (AMPC)
As we start the Year, remember life is long term no matter how short one’s time on earth may last because of the reason that the nature and original intent of its author is eternity. Besides regardless of how short one may have lived, the effects and impact of their arrival, stay, and passing on the planet are felt years after. Life is a marathon not a sprint.
Therefore we ought to be ‘long haul’ minded and not just ‘in transit’ minded.
When Jesus told us to live one day at time and not worry about tomorrow’s issues today He was actually emphasizing this life’s a marathon and not a sprint principle. You see when you are running a marathon that’s like twenty one miles you don’t use up all your breath and strength dashing at top speed. You will be exhausted and wasted after only a few hundred meters. But if you are to get to the finish line of a marathon let alone win the race you have to conserve and sparingly expend your energy, you have to regulate momentum.
Life is a marathon, true lasting enjoyment and satisfaction is a marathon not a sprint in range. If you want it right away right now asap, you may have it but it will not last. It will vanish right away, right now asap, yet having exhausted and wasted you.
The most reliable, the richest and rewarding relationships are the marathon types – the ones that build up slowly and grow gradually over a lengthy duration of time.
Cheetahs, leopards are sprinters and despite being among those on top of the food chain these predators are more strained and stressed than the prey they hunt, which in some cases they are stronger and faster than, and which they are a threat to. No wonder these fast paced predators strenuously struggle to feed and survive. It’s interesting to note that the hunted – antelopes, zebras are less agitated; they are usually calm and unshaken.
You don’t have to strenuously, painfully sprint trying to survive or succeed. Slow down, take life in stride, and keep a steady pace. Don’t rush into anything, don’t rush anything. Wait on the Lord, trust in Him, take time to enquire, research, study, and be abreast of everything you’re pursuing.