“We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.”
Hebrews 6:12 (NIV)
If you’ve watched Olympic track events, you may have noticed that it’s nearly impossible for one person to compete and excel in both long-distance and short-distance races. The strategies and preparations for each are vastly different. Long-distance races, such as marathons, demand immense endurance and patience. Similarly, the life of faith we are called to live requires the same qualities. Living with purpose demands not only faith but also patience!
The words “Faith” and “Patience” are mostly used together in all the scriptures. This means that to see the promises of God fulfilled in our lives and live according to His design, we must add patience to our faith (Hebrews 6:13-15). Waiting in 2025 for you might not mean inactivity or idleness; rather, it could mean realising the bright years you have ahead of you and how God can be trusted!
While it is true that early starters have an advantage, it is not always true in practice for everybody (Ecclesiastes 9:11). This means expertise or speed alone does not always guarantee success. Therefore, you must be strategic enough to recognise opportunities and seize them at the right time with the wisdom of God.
Furthermore, it is good to make plans, but it is best to plan with God (Proverbs 19:21). He is an extraordinary strategist. The journey from Joseph’s family to the position of Prime Minister in Egypt did not happen in one day. A series of events led to that. Sometimes, God would tell you the endpoint but not the details of the processes involved. When God promised Abraham a child in his old age, he tried in the flesh by giving birth to Ishmael. Still, the promised son was Isaac (Genesis 17:19).
Peter toiled all night but was only one instruction away from getting a net-breaking catch (Luke 5:4-5). Jesus’ first miracle was at a wedding. The miracle happened that day simply by obedience to His instructions (John 2:5). This is how to win in life!
Every athlete experiences fatigue in a race, but only those who endure until the end are declared winners. It’s not just about speed; it’s about perseverance and distance. This year and beyond, wait on the Lord and your strength will be continuously renewed (Isaiah 40:31).
Bible Reading Plan: Exodus 25-26; Matthew 22:1-22