As a runner, I know from experience how hard it can be to run uphill, especially in a long race. I’ve learned that when running hills, you must not focus on how much further you must climb to finish; you must instead concentrate on your present stride, one step at a time. When you look too far ahead, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with negative thoughts, such as=I’m not going to be able to finish; this is too long; I’m tired; I can’t keep going; this is too hard! These thoughts will effect your running ability in a negative way. As a follower of Jesus, I know from experience how difficult it can be to “run up the hill” of difficulty and trying times. We want to believe and trust that God will see us through to a higher, better place, but the bombardment of persistent, negative thoughts create spiritual and emotional weariness. However, God has directions for us that will lead us to the finish line and triumphant victory. We are told to run with patient endurance and steady, active persistence the appointed course that is set before us. Trusting God one day at a time……one step at a time….one moment at a time….one second at a time, and not getting too far ahead. As we look to Jesus and look away from all that will distract- overwhelm,worry, fear, doubt, and negative thoughts-He will use the challenging times of uphill battles in our lives to show us His faithfulness, and bring our faith to maturity. Because of His mercy, grace and love, we will discover victory over our uphill battles!

“And let us run with patient endurance and steady and active persistence the appointed course of the race that is set before us. Looking away [from all that will distract] to Jesus who is the Leader and the Source of our faith [giving the first incentive for our belief] and is also it’s Finisher [bringing it to maturity and perfection]”(Hebrews 12:1b-2a).