"The champion is not always the one who runs faster…but the one who keeps running."
This quote is in my room as a constant reminder of the word determination. Determination has been key in my life. At a very young age, I had to learn that is not about how fast we achieve our goals, but about the ability to see them become a reality. Also, very young I understood that our goals were to be submitted to the way we live while we reach them.
And just when we think about our goals in the Kingdom of God, if we are honest, at times they appear a heavier burden than the one we can carry, is there when we are reminded of the words of Jeremiah: “But if I say, “I will not mention his word or speak anymore in his name,” his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot.”. (Jer 20:9).
Why we have this inner battle regarding all those big goals God invited us to be a part of? For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable (Rom 11:29). Did you see the beautiful word? Calling. It usually leaves me speechless because it goes beyond my will or any other plan, or dream that I could ever imagine. The calling comes from The One from whom life proceeds and who sustains all things.
The journey towards our calling could bring challenges that involve commitment, perseverance, and tons of faith. But here is the key, all that without determination won't be fruitful. Is there, when I commit and stand with a determined heart that I am allowing God to stretch my faith and lead me towards His plans.
Moses had that determination ”He kept right on going because he kept his eyes on the one who is invisible” (Hebrews 11:27) Let us keep the same request until the end,… imitating those who by faith and patience inherit the promises…” (Heb 6: 11.12)
Determination makes me hold onto faith and patience. It allows me to hope in peace and certainty that the One who has promised is faithful and will always be faithful to fulfill what He has said, because He does not lie. I know His character: “Do not be envious of sinners, But continue in the fear of the Lord all the time. Because there is certainly a future and your hope will not be disappointed. " (Prov. 23: 17-18)
What a challenge! Our greatest example comes from the One who has called us to follow in his footsteps and by his side those who are already with him, testifying that we can win and finish the race triumphantly.
Therefore, we too, having around our great cloud of witnesses, let us shed all weight and the sin that beset us, and patiently run the race that lies ahead, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the author, and finisher of faith, which for the joy set before him endured the cross, despising the reproach, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider the one who suffered such a contradiction of sinners against himself, so that your spirit may not tire until you faint. " (Hebrews 12: 1-3)
I encourage you to continue the race. To persevere despite the circumstances. To trust in his promises in the midst of what at times seems distant, and to be encouraged by the testimony of those who persevered trusting not only in the power of God but in His love and His character.
Sobre el Author
With a BA in Psychology and several credentials in the Family Counseling area, the biggest achievement of Monica is to follow Jesus. Monica has served as a Pastor and leader for years and currently serves in her local church. Her joy is to spend time with her 3 sons, 2 grandchildren, and to dive deep into the scripture with a good cup of coffee in her hands.