Chapter 265—For the Race of Life
Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us,
and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto
Jesus the author and finisher of our faith.
Hebrews 12:1, 2
.
Envy, malice, evil thinking, evilspeaking, covetousness—these are
weights that the Christian must lay aside if he would run successfully the
race for immortality. Every habit or practice that leads into sin and brings
dishonor upon Christ, must be put away, whatever the sacrifice. The blessing
of heaven cannot attend any man in violating the eternal principles of right....
The competitors in the ancient games, after they had submitted to self-
denial and rigid discipline, were not even then sure of the victory.... However
eagerly and earnestly the runners might strive, the prize could be awarded
to but one. One hand only could grasp the coveted garland. Some might
put forth the utmost effort to obtain the prize, but as they reached forth the
hand to secure it, another, an instant before them, might grasp the coveted
treasure.
Such is not the case in the Christian warfare. Not one who complies with
the conditions will be disappointed at the end of the race. Not one who is
earnest and persevering will fail of success. The race is not to the swift, nor
the battle to the strong. The weakest saint, as well as the strongest, may wear
the crown of immortal glory. All may win who, through the power of divine
grace, bring their lives into conformity to the will of Christ.... Every act
casts its weight into the scale that determines life’s victory or defeat. And
the reward given to those who win will be in proportion to the energy and
earnestness with which they have striven....
Paul knew that his warfare against evil would not end so long as life
should last. Ever he realized the need of putting a strict guard upon himself,
that earthly desires might not overcome spiritual zeal. With all his power he
continued to strive against natural inclinations. Ever he kept before him the
ideal to be attained, and this ideal he strove to reach by willing obedience
to the law of God. His words, his practices, his passions—all were brought
under the control of the Spirit of God.
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