A Better Yes
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3
INSIGHT
A few years back I had the crazy idea to put on my running shoes again and take part in the Wrightsville Beach Half-Marathon. Having a few races under my belt, I figured it would be a piece of cake, even with a little bit of time off.
Boy, was I wrong. Life happened, causing the training schedule to go out the window. But, there I was on race day ready to pound the pavement. And at first, everything was going great. Then, around Mile 12, with my hamstrings and calves burning, I felt a bit of pain in my knee. With every step, the misery got worse.
My heart didn't want to throw in the towel, but everything else in my body was yelling for me to give in to discomfort and quit. Less than a mile lay before me and this ordeal being over. The easy (and very tempting) option was to wave the white flag and stop short. No one would blame me - I endured long enough.
Nothing was going to stop me from the glory that awaited me on the other side of the finish line. Mustering every ounce of endurance I had left, I limped (and cried) as I held my head down while hordes of cheering spectators kept reminding me that "I can do it."
And, do it I did. I've got the medal to prove it. Now, I tell this tale not to brag about my athletic prowess. I share it because it illustrates the tension many of us experience when we encounter struggles, suffering, and temptation.
We get pushed to our limits. We start to lose hope. Joy evaporates and all but disappears. We come up with excuses and justifications as to why we have every right to stop short. We compare our pain to those around us who are racing by us effortlessly.
Eventually, we reach a point where the story will unfold in one of two ways. Either we'll collapse under the pressure by giving in and giving up, or we will step into the moment and allow perseverance the opportunity to do its work. In those moments, saying "no" for the 1,000th time will only get us so far. We don't need more strength, but rather more reliance.
Instead of attempting to be determined on our own with a NO, we have to find a BETTER YES by remembering what awaits us at the finish line:
A transformed heart.
A greater hope.
A deeper character.
A fresh perspective.
A tale of faith and hope.
An encounter with God's faithfulness.
JOY.
Today, in those wilderness places where you've lost hope, are wrestling with temptation, or are staring struggles straight in the eye, find your better YES. Head towards the finish line and let God guide your steps.
REFLECTION
Think of the places where you are suffering, struggling, or battling temptation. Why do you want to give in and give up? How have you lost heart and hope?
What would finding a "better yes" look like in this situation? How can you display perseverance, character, and hope?
PRAYER
God, You never gave up on me so I will never give up on You. I trust that You are shaping my heart and have a higher purpose for my days. Amid my circumstances, I will respond with joy. Help me to take another step of faith today, knowing that You are using everything I encounter to mold and shape me. In Your name, Jesus. Amen.
