Finish the Race
Just my thoughts on this picture —
This guy kept looking at Phelps throughout the whole race instead of swimming his own race. Even the day before, he was trying mess with Phelps in the warm-up room. The guy on his right beat him for the bronze. He kept his focus on the wrong thing, and he did not win the race. He did not get the prize.
What if we, in our own grief journey, keep watching others to see how they are doing? What if we watch what others think of us and we try to compare where we are to where they are? Will we get to the prize? The prize of finding peace, joy, and hope even in the midst of our grief? Or will we always feel inadequate, like we are just not quite enough? Will we be left standing, unsure of what to do next?
In your grief journey, are you keeping a focus on the right thing?
Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2 ESV
For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing. 2 timothy 4:6-8
Bible study, Christianity, Grief, healing, Phelps, running the race
kingsoracle
Looking up to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, Not comparing ourselves with others, Food for thought . Thanks Kathleen for the admonition.
KathleenBDuncan
You are welcome.
KathleenBDuncan
I love how God can speak to us even through the actions of an Olympic swimmer who does not seem to be a nice guy.
kingsoracle
If He can use a donkey back in the days, I bet there is nothing He won’t use to get to communicate His intents to us.
rogerholmack
A wonderful perspective. The verse you listed, 2nd Timothy, is exactly the one I thought of when I saw the title. Keep your focus on you and what you’re doing. Great advice.