In Acts the second chapter, we read of the first gospel sermon ever preached. Being filled with the Holy Spirit, along with the other eleven apostles (Acts 2:1-15), Peter addressed the audience. After speaking of the resurrection of Christ, he told his Jewish listeners that they were guilty of crucifying the one that God has […]
The only way to finish the race well is to labor in the Lord consistently. Paul knew this; and, so, he never let up when it came to doing the Lord’s work. 1 Corinthians 15:10 (NKJV) 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not […]
One of the reasons Paul ran so hard, and eventually finished the course, was because he was always mindful of the stakes. When it came to the rigid self-discipline he employed during his earthly journey, he wrote this about it: 1 Corinthians 9:27 (ESV) 27 But I discipline my body and keep it under control, […]
Where do you linger in life, and with whom do you linger? This is an area where many Christians stumble. They do not believe that what they do and where they go has any influence on their relationship with God and how they run the race of Christianity. I am afraid, however, that they are […]
To finish the race of Christianity, we must run lawfully (2 Timothy 2:5). If the event that an athlete is competing in is a race, to run lawfully involves staying in his or her lane. This will be much easier to do if the runner is looking in the right direction. When a runner keeps […]
Christianity is a race to the finish. Paul was determined to press toward the goal to win the ultimate prize of heaven (Philippians 3:14). That should be the goal of every Christian. Paul was confident that he had reached his goal. 2 Timothy 4:6-7 (ESV) 6 For I am already being poured out as a […]
A young man once asked Jesus what he had to do to have eternal life. Jesus told him to keep the commandments (Matthew 19:17). He said, “All these I have kept. What do I still lack?” He did not like our Lord’s response. Jesus said, “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess […]
Acts 27:20 (ESV) 20 When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope of our being saved was at last abandoned. As Paul traveled to Rome to stand before Caesar, the ship that he was on was caught in a storm. The storm was so severe […]
“All in” is a phrase often used to denote being fully committed to something. To succeed in most areas of life, it is necessary to have a high level of commitment. Doing things half-heartedly usually result in failure. This same principle is applicable when it comes to serving God. God does not ask a lot […]
Psalm 101:6 (NKJV) 6 My eyes shall be on the faithful of the land, That they may dwell with me; He who walks in a perfect way, He shall serve me. The promise of God’s presence is an extremely gracious one. The compassion, love, and long-suffering of God is inherent in such a promise. David […]