I discovered the importance of pacing when running my first triathlon. I did all my training for the swim leg of the race in a pool. And my times were fantastic. But the Atlantic Ocean is no pool. I was confident going into the race. And so on the opening swim leg, I sprinted from the beach to the first buoy. I wanted to be at the front of the pack so I didn't have to embarrass everybody by swimming past them. That's just the kind of guy I am.

 

Well, let's just say that the ocean ate my lunch! Or more accurately, I drank the ocean. It's amazing what a couple gallons of salt water will do to your stomach. Lora said I looked like a dazed boxer when I finally hit the beach. She was being kind. I started so fast that I couldn't catch my breath the rest of the swim. I'm embarrassed to say that I ended up doing the backstroke instead of freestyle for much of the swim leg. And I learned an important lesson: how you start is not nearly as important as how you finish. And pacing is the key.

 

There's a spiritual application in this story if we will take the time to look  at it with both eyes wide open.  In my ministry, I've had the opportunity of watching a good number of people giving the hearts over into God's care and keeping.  To say that most of them were VERY excited would be an understatement.  Most were so overwhelmed with God's grace, and inspired by His mercy that they walked around with big smiles on their faces for days.  

 

I noticed however, that there were also a good number who seemed to get easily discouraged, and some even wondered why they started a relationship with Christ.  Deep relationships take time.  They don't happen overnight, and we must invest in them on a consistent basis in order to see them thrive.  The same is true with spiritual relationships too.  As we move deeper and still deeper into our walk with Christ, it can become abundantly clear that "finishing well" is not only attainable, but with Christ at our sides...assured.

 

Blessed Assurance, Jesus is Mine!  It's a great song...and a great way to live.

 

 

Have a great day and God bless!

 

 

 

Pastor Mike / The Open Word