“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus…” -Hebrews 12:1a
With endurance – that’s the kind of running that God is calling me to. Other Bible translations (the above verse was in the ESV) use the words “perseverance” and “patience.” These aren’t sprinting words. God knows the race is long and the road is difficult. I don’t know about you, but I sigh with relief when I realize that I don’t have to be fast – I just need to keep moving forward one step at a time without giving up (I couldn’t do it apart from God’s help!).
Realizing the need for endurance and perseverance in running has impacted how I view serving and how I view my own singleness. If I view my singleness as only being a short-term “race,” I will quickly grow weary, not only because my expectations are misaligned with the mystery of God’s plan, but I will also be working (and serving) for what I think the next season will hold. The road is long and often has an unknown expiration date, so I need endurance, patience, perseverance, and I need to keep my eyes on Jesus. He is able to strengthen weary hands and hearts to keep going, no matter how long different seasons last!
