How disappointing for a runner to look behind during a sprint, only to be passed in a split second. How heartbreaking. If only they had stayed focused on their own race, they would have won. The same concept applies to distance runners. They must run at the right pace based on their training while resisting the urge to keep pace with the front runner.
Such a large crowd of witnesses is all around us! So we must get rid of everything that slows us down, especially the sin that just won't let go. And we must be determined to run the race that is ahead of us. This verse reminds us to run the race ahead of us. Looking back and comparing ourselves with others slows us down. The things that hinder one person may not be a problem for another. But we will burn out quickly if we try to keep up with everyone else.
Whether we just started or are nearing the end of our race, we must not measure our progress by other runners.
Don’t hinder your progress by looking back. Comparison will only slow you down.
(Photo courtesy of pixabay and alba1970.)
Connie Williams is a wife and mother of three, currently residing in West Virginia. She has written for LIVE, The Gem, Purpose, Evangel, The Vison, and other publications. She has authored a book entitled Journeys. She is an avid reader whose quest is to do what Wordsworth eloquently stated: “to fill your paper with the breathings of your heart.”