if the races of faith were easy, everyone would be running them 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️

Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. — 1 Corinthians 9:25 NIV

Running on Sand Today's inspiration comes from: Devotions from the Beach Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. — 1 Corinthians 9:25 NIV Ask any runner — the beach offers challenging terrain.   Some run barefoot while others wear shoes, but those who appear to stride effortlessly have been at it a while. They have had to train and build up strength to make it look so easy.   Running on a softer surface requires better balance and more energy from the muscles involved. There are plenty of risks too, such as sprains, strains, and puncture wounds. So why do it? At times, running the race God sets for each of us seems more difficult. At times, running the race God sets for each of us seems more difficult. The payoff is worth it! These runners improve their strength, they experience less impact on their joints, and they burn more calories per mile. Training on a beach can literally put more spring in their step when they run on a hard surface like asphalt.   At times, running the race God sets for each of us seems more difficult than living a mediocre, milquetoast life.   But if the races of faith were easy, everyone would be running them.   As Paul explained, our race centers around one goal — a life that's pleasing to God, achieved by "strict training" —  and one prize — "A crown that will last forever."   Challenging terrain aside, aren't God's pleasure and an everlasting reward worth everything?   Father God, help me to persevere when I'm weary and to keep my eyes on the end result. Excerpted with permission from Devotions from the Beach, copyright Thomas Nelson.   * * * Ready to Dig Deeper? SHOP THIS BOOK ► Your Turn Running is hard. Running on sand? So much harder! Don't be surprised or dismayed when running your race for Jesus Christ is much harder than you could have ever anticipated. The Holy Spirit is right there within you and beside you and will help you maintain your stride. Keep your eyes on Jesus! ~ Devotionals Daily COMMENT Life is better at the beach Save 50% Devotions from the Beach: 100 Devotions $10.00 50% off + FREE shipping on all orders $35 and more SHOP NOW Calling all ocean and beach lovers... this beautiful devotional is for you! One of our bestselling devotionals of all-time at FaithGateway!   Life is better at the beach--but you already knew that. Escape with a beach read focused on the beauty of God's seaside wonders. The stunning photography and devotions will take you right to the water's edge, where God's voice is often clearer than ever.   This beautiful book gives you a front-row seat to God's majestic creation. So breathe deeply and open your heart and soul to the One who shaped it all. Devotions from the Beach is the perfect gift for every beach lover, women who appreciate gentle reminders of days at the beach and the call of God's love, and anyone who finds peace standing beside the ocean. LEARN MORE ► Take a look inside SHOP NOW What Our Readers Are Saying "I love the beach so reading these devotionals brings me back the the calmness and peace I feel at the beach. It is renewing my tired and weary soul!" - Lisa W. "I'm loving this devotional. The daily readings are just what  need to start my day. I love the pictures that go with each one. I cant get enough of the beach and adding Jesus to the mix makes it even better." - Sheila S. "If you love the beach and want to praise God, deepen your prayer life, and gain insights through the Word and beach-life metaphors, this is a great gift for yourself or others! Beautiful hardcover and pictures too." - Laura B. SHOP NOW You might also like... Footprints: An Interactive Journey Through One of the Most Beloved Poems of All Time By: Margaret Fishback Powers $9.99 41% off SHOP NOW Footprints: An Interactive Journey Through One of the Most Beloved Poems of All Time explores each line of Margaret Fishback Powers' timeless poem that highlights the ways God cares for people who are hurting or lonely. Now with a repackaged four-color design and new journaling and list prompts, the poem that has touched so many lives is available for a new generation of readers.   For more than fifty years Footprints has brought comfort to millions of readers worldwide. "When you saw only one set of footprints it was then that I carried you." This interactive edition of Footprints is the perfect resource to use in your daily faith walk. Don't miss our Summer Bible Study Sale! Summer is a great time to spend extra time developing your spiritual life and learning more about the Word of God. Spend time with the Son in the sun! 🌞   Save up to 63% on resources that complement any Bible! Explore 52-week Bible studies, journals, devotionals, biblical history & insights, and more! PLUS get free shipping on orders $35 or more! SHOP THE SALE SHARE this devotion with someone who needs it today SHARE

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