“In the day when I cried You answered me and strengthened me with strength in my soul.”
Psalm 138:3
It’s better than any plan, pill and potion and is always given just when we need it.
God’s “Soul-Strength.”
Anyone who’s watched or been around track-and-field very long knows about runners “hitting the wall” around the 20-21 mile-mark in a marathon. Although well-conditioned and having trained for months or years, the runners’ bodies begin to shut down through exhaustion, dehydration, an electrolyte imbalance, etc.
And, through sheer determination they will themselves to keep on running. Most make it; some don’t.
Several years ago a runner in the Olympics began suffering from dehydration and heat exhaustion. The television cameras began focusing more on her than the other runners as this real-life drama unfolded before viewers’ eyes. Every step was a torturous one—and it seemed at any minute she would collapse; some feared she could possibly suffer permanent injury or even death because of the toll being taken on her body.
Finally, long after most of the runners had crossed the finish line she staggered into the stadium for the last lap. Race officials, fellow runners who’d already finished, medical personnel, etc., lined the track; yet, they knew they could not come to her aid because their mere touching her would disqualify her from the race.
So, on she ran. Wobbling with each step.
Fans in the stands stood in unison—some shouting out words of encouragement; others weeping uncontrollably.
And, as she rounded the first curve and headed down the backstretch everyone in the stands began clapping. . .louder and louder. . .in unison. . .vicariously breathing for her and straining with her.
As she rounded the final curve, the finish line in her sights, the staggering Olympian almost fell. People gasped; but, she regained her balance and slowly edged toward her goal.
And, finally she crossed the line, collapsing in her comrades’ arms as the stadium erupted in thunderous applause and cheers.
How wonderful to know in our “Race of Faith” that we do not have to finish the Race alone! Truly, our “come-alongside” Paraclete (the Holy Spirit) has been sent from Heaven to strengthen us as we “run patiently our Race and finish our Course” (Heb. 12:1c; II Tim. 4:7).
The “Secret of our Strength”?
“Looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher (Perfecter) of our faith” (Heb. 12:2). Hallelujah!
Are you looking to Him today, Pilgrim? Are you waiting on Him (Is. 40:31)? Are you resting in Him (Mt. 11:28-30)? Never forget that His Grace is sufficient for you and He will “strengthen your heart as you hope in Him” (Ps. 31:24). Thank You, Jesus.
By Tom Smith Morning Manna Dated July 26, 2010
