Yesterday I went for my first outside run since a horse-riding fall several months ago. One of the things I’ve discovered running is when you have strong arm action your legs will follow your arms’ movement and create momentum, not the other way around.
The stronger my arms are, the further and better I run.
The bible talks a lot about running and to run in such a way as to win the prize. God wants us to run and thrive in life and knows that we will need some equipment to last the distance and be protected. He has given us a spiritual armour in which we are to clothe ourselves against enemy attack, enabling us to get to where we want to go. (See Ephesians 6)
Interestingly, it’s the sword of the Spirit, God’s Word, which is the one piece of armour used to defend and offensively push back the enemy. The sword of the spirit is sharper than any double-edged sword; it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” (Eph 6:17; Hebrews 4:12)
Just as we benefit from strong arms to run, God has equipped us with His Word that will arm us with strength if we take hold of it.
Just as strong arms help in running to keep momentum and rhythm, God’s Word arms us with strength and provides a weapon to resist enemy attack. His Word held firmly lights a path and sets a direction for our feet to travel.
In the Bible, David said, “It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to stand on the heights. He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze. You give me your shield of victory, and your right hand sustains me; you stoop down to make me great.” (Psalm 18:39)
If you want to thrive rather than survive in life, then I encourage you to take hold of God’s Word and run with it firmly and securely in your hand. Arm yourself with strength and what God says about you. Run, knowing your dream and purpose and what His Word (your sword) says about the circumstances you face every day.
Arm yourself with strength in His Word today and “Run in such a way as to get the prize.” (1 Cor 9:24)
Prayer; Lord, I want to run my race well and live my best life. Please help me remember that the best possible way to succeed is by taking hold and using your Word to guide and defend me today. In Jesus name Amen.