Transforming Grace

The lesson from The Tortoise and the Hare fable is not in how we start the race but in how we finish it.

In 1968, Tanzanian runner John Stephen Akhwari became an Olympic legend despite finishing last in the marathon while injured. When asked why he continued, he said, “My country did not send me 5,000 miles to start the race; they sent me 5,000 miles to finish the race.”

As we approach the new year, it’s time to lay down our burdens, frustrations, and unforgiveness before the Lord and realign ourselves with Him. To finish the race well, we must:

Recognize God as the Source of Our Strength

God provides the strength we need to finish gloriously. We must humble ourselves, guard our hearts, and keep them fertile for the Lord to work in.

Psalm 46:1 (KJV): "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."

The Word of God comforts, strengthens, and sustains us:

• Psalm 18:1–2 (KJV): "The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer."
• Isaiah 41:10 (KJV): "Fear not, for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God."
• Philippians 4:13 (KJV): "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."

Waiting on the Lord renews our strength:

Isaiah 40:31 (KJV): "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength."

Demonstrate God’s Strength and Power

Jesus is our role model. He fulfilled the Father’s redemptive plan despite suffering, relying on God’s strength:

• Luke 22:42 (KJV): "Father, if Thou be willing, remove this cup from Me: nevertheless not My will, but Thine, be done."
• Isaiah 53:5 (KJV): "He was wounded for our transgressions; the chastisement of our peace was upon Him."

Paul demonstrated humility and faith despite his trials, acknowledging God’s grace as sufficient:

2 Corinthians 12:9 (KJV): "My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness."

Look Toward the Crown of Glory

Our ultimate goal is to complete the work God has given us and receive His reward:

• 2 Timothy 4:7–8 (KJV): "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith."
• 1 Peter 5:4 (KJV): "When the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away."

Conclusion

Our labor in the Lord is never in vain. Let us run with patience, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith:

Hebrews 12:1–2 (KJV): "Let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus."