Working Towards Defeat

Make no mistake.  There are forces in the world so evil that their entire purpose and mission is to lead us to defeat.  All they desire is to keep us busy, uninterested, and confused about all things God.  They use whatever they can to keep us separated from our life’s calling.

Them’s fightin’ words.

I was watching my daughter, Sara, at gymnastics the other day.  I had lingered a bit to chat with some moms and when I looked out into the gym I saw something profound.

The girls would team up and one would wrap a belt around her waist.  The partner would then stand behind her… holding the belt on both ends… and be dead weight as the other one tried to run.

The girl in front was running the race, and the purpose of the girl in back was to keep her from doing so.  By adding enough resistance, the plan was to wear the runner out so she would quit.

But I realized the runner had a different purpose.

Her goal was to make it to the end no matter what.  She was going to fight through the hardship of carrying a heavier load and reach the finish line.  The last thing she was going to do was quit her race, because she knew the coach would make her do it again.

As long as she kept her eyes on the coach and that finish line, she was able to remain focused and determined… and consequently, she didn’t allow the pull from the one resolved to hold her back… to win.  As a matter of fact, all of these girls ran with such fortitude it was as if the burden wasn’t there at all.

Helloooo?

“Since we are surrounded by so many examples [of faith], we must get rid of everything that slows us down, especially sin that distracts us. We must run the race that lies ahead of us and never give up.” (Hebrews 12:1)

Look, the Enemy is going to do everything he can to bring you down.  Chances are, he already has a time or two.  He hates you.  Despises you.  So knowing his time on earth is short, he will stop at nothing to slow you down, discourage you and distract you.  Be aware!

But you know what?  It’s not only the Enemy… sometimes it’s your own fault.

Many times, you are your own worst enemy.  While Satan may whisper a lie to you, you agree with it.  You’re guilty of not taking your thought life captive.  Sometimes your enemy is two-fold.

If you always blame it on Satan, you’re giving him too much credit.

I wonder what is pulling on you today?  What’s holding you back from finishing the race?  What is working towards defeat in your life?

• Your past?
• An unhealthy relationship?
• A lack of courage?
• Guilt over a situation?
• Anger towards someone?

Run anyway.  When you’re struggling to catch your breath… run.  When you’re aching to sit down and give up… run!  When it seems like too much… run anyway!

What is our motivation?  Jesus…

“Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people; then you won’t become weary and give up.” (Hebrews 12:3)

Sisters, run, run, run.  Don’t give up!  Don’t quit!  In spite of every opposition and affliction that is working towards your defeat, don’t give in.

You are stronger than you think.  The blood of Jesus gives you all the power you need to thwart the plans of the Enemy.  With Him on your side, you have everything you need to keep running.

Now, go get ’em!

©2011 careyscotttalks.com