As the sagacious icon from our childhood fables would say, slow and steady wins the race. The tortoise has become known for his unwavering steadfastness in contrast to the hasty, overconfident hare.
I find this to be good life advice as well. Quick, sporadic bursts of energy are often short-lived and temporarily effective, neither sustainable long-term nor fruitful in ongoing endeavors.
The Christian life requires enduring perseverance. Circumstances are tragic, temptation is constant, and doubt is nagging. Not only do we face the usual pressures and problems of human existence, but also the spiritual tension of dealing with the flesh while living for God. There are moments when it feels utterly exhausting.
There are moments when it feels like the fight won’t end, the finish line won’t come, the dawn won’t break. But I encourage you as the Lord has been faithfully encouraging me this season: It will.
God won the battle, rewards the runner who endures till the end, and will forever be the source of light that illuminates eternity.
First Corinthians 15:57 says God gives victory through Jesus Christ.
James 1:12 promises, “When he has stood the test [the man who remains steadfast under trial] will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him.”
The ultimate, eternal prize is the light of God’s presence, “for the glory of God gives [the city] light, and its lamp is the Lamb” (Revelation 21:23).
We grow weary, but our faithful God always encourages our hearts and uplifts our spirits.
He walks with us in valleys and victories, giving us rest and restoration. His steadfast love keeps us steady; His faithfulness makes us faithful followers.
God’s Provision: I am so comforted by Isaiah 26:3. “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” God is an anchor, compass, and northern star for us.
Word of the Week: Moor is the action of fastening a boat or seafaring vessel to the shore or an anchor in order to “make it fast.” In my world, God’s steadfast love is the weighty rope and His faithfulness the sturdy cable that secures me to Him day in and day out. Tides rise and fall, waves crash and swell, but my inner being is stable, firm, and steady.
Painstaking, maybe. But we are not running alone. Slow and steady wins the race.
Abby
