Running the Race to Win

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2

I run into so many people who pray a lot but never read/study the bible a lot (if at all). This behavior can have serious ramifications in life. You need to know God, because,...His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him... 2 Peter 1:3

The key here is the “renewing of your mind.” That occurs when you read/study the bible, God’s word. The renewing of your mind plays a big part in helping you abide in him. How can you abide in him if you do not know how? Abiding is what Paul calls, running the race. Paul said run in such a way to win the race. So to run well you need to know how to run (abide).

How do we do this? It’s 50% prayer, 50% renewing (studying God’s word). You can’t run a great race without both occurring. You can, but you’ll be struggling.

An example would be the athlete. An athlete needs to do two things, eat right and exercise right. I akin the eating portion to studying the bible, the exercise to praying. A good athlete who does both is running the race to win.

So it is critical that you begin to open the bible and start studying and reading and meditating on the amazing scripture references. Then your faith will increase mightily. You will know what to pray for and your well being will be much better off. Here is another reference:
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 2 Cor 4:16

Remember, you are renewing by reading and studying God’s word, along with your prayers. Not that I am being legalistic. Some days we are busy and do not have much time to read or study. However, you try to fit it in, try to make it a priority. Matter of fact, even just a few minutes a day will help immensely. I try to read for a few minutes before I shut out the light at night. Just that few minutes can be a big help to you spiritually. Makes you feel good, makes you feel clean spiritually, helps give you a clear conscience before God.

Do not worry, we are all behind you, rooting for you, praying for you. You are a part of us and we are a part of you. Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. Romans 12:4-6

And finally, in all things give thanks to God...

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

Note: Of course this message is directed to believers in Christ. If you do not know the joy of the Lord, or if find yourself thirsty spiritually, it is time for you to get off the fence and give your life to Christ. The adventure awaits you. Here is an excellent site to help answer a lot of your questions: http://www.intouch.org/myintouch/exploring/promises/index_77684.html