So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Galatians 6:9
One of the greatest marathon runners in world history has a secret to spiritual success for you.
Eliud Kipchoge made headlines by becoming the first person to run a marathon in under two hours. His amazing speed wasn’t all natural talent—it took years of intense training, early mornings, and countless setbacks to lead him to that finish line.[1]
Eliud’s determination to push through difficult days and moments of exhaustion is a great picture of the spiritual perseverance we’re called to. Many times, we don’t see the immediate results of our efforts to do good, pray for others, or to remain faithful. But God reminds us not to give up. Galatians 6:9 says, “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.”
Gladys Aylward refused to give up. She knew God wanted her to take his message of love to China, but she faced obstacle after obstacle. Multiple mission boards rejected her. So, she saved up enough money to travel to China on her own and spent years faithfully serving in dangerous conditions. Her perseverance led to incredible impact, even when the path seemed impossible.[2]
Like Eliud’s marathon and Gladys’ missionary work, spiritual endurance often feels long and hard, but God promises that the reward will come in His time.
What area of your life feels like an endless marathon? Trust that God is running with you every step, and that your perseverance will lead to His blessing.
[1] Keh, Andrew. “Eliud Kipchoge Breaks Two-Hour Marathon Barrier.” The New York Times, 12 Oct. 2019, updated 14 Oct. 2019, www.nytimes.com/2019/10/12/sports/eliud-kipchoge-marathon-record.html. Accessed 12 Sept. 2024.
[2] Gladys Aylward, Missionary, Dies.” The New York Times, 4 Jan. 1970, www.nytimes.com/1970/01/04/archives/gladys-aylward-missionary-dies-briton-who-prompted-inn-of-sixth.html. Accessed 12 Sept. 2024.
