Running the race, not alone, but together...

"When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours." Romans 1:12 (NLT)

I was on Skype earlier to my friend who has been out in South Africa for about 4 months now and having just got off of it, it is time to reflect...

The above verse written by Paul is such a challenge to us,to encourage one another in our faith and to help each other run the race. When talking to my friend I am continually inspired to change my bad characteristics, to push myself more and to seek God further; as I see her faith grow more and more I want mine to do the same. When I see how God has provided for her out there, and how she is so dependent on Him I can't help but be inspired, and I'd like to think even if it is only small I can inspire and encourage her to continue and increase what she's doing already.

Running the Christian race doesn't have to be a lonely one; for one, we have God right beside us, running by our sides as it were and secondly we have our brothers and sisters running too. When others lag behind it may seem easier to continue running, but if we're to do as Paul writes, we need to go back, pick them up where they've fallen and encourage them to continue, because you never know, that kindness may need to be returned when we fall ourselves.

In a world so bitter and mocking it is important that we spur each other on, that in times of trouble we say that little encouraging word that can make all the difference.

When was the last time you encouraged someone? I know for me, it was far too long ago!

Take one challenge today and encourage someone, spur them on in the race and run along side them. If you legs feel weary and you're struggling to carrying on, there's a God who loves you and there's people running with you, who love you and will pick you up and help you.

"So take a new grip with your tired hands and stand firm on your shaky legs. Mark out a straight path for your feet. Then those who follow you, though they are weak and lame, will not stumble and fall but will become strong" Hebrews 12:12-13 (NLT)