Dedicate Yourself to the Long-Distance Race

The Christian life and spiritual growth are not sprints. They are long-distance races that require lifelong perseverance. You grow in spiritual maturity as you run the race moment by moment, day after day, and year after year.

In many ways, running the spiritual race is a lot like physical running. If you stop exercising physically, your body may not show the results of inactivity for a while. But in time you will wake up and find that you can’t even run to the end of the block, and much less a longer run!

In the same way, you may think you can get by without exercising spiritually, by not reading your Bible, or praying, or going to church. One day, however, you will wake up and find yourself spiritually flabby, out of shape, and wide open to sin … all because you didn’t make a focused effort to keep growing day by day.

If this is you, here are three tips for faithful, daily spiritual habits.

Start small. If you struggle with daily Bible reading, take a moment to find a fresh reading plan. Spend time in the Gospels, or in the Psalms and Proverbs. Not may not be the time to start a deep intensive in more difficult books, but instead focus on small, daily readings that will feed your heart and leave you with the desire to know Christ more and more.

Be consistent. Focus on daily reading, and daily prayer, rather than on a certain length of time spent in the Word or prayer. Your desire for time with Christ will grow as daily Bible reading and prayer become a manageable, meaningful part of your day.

Find accountability. Talk to a friend if you feel spiritually out of shape. Having their support and prayers will be an encouragement to your heart and soul, and you may be able to find ways to help each other grow spiritually as you pursue Christ.

Remember, you cannot rest on yesterday’s growth. You must be dedicated to growing today… and every day!

RESPOND

Lord, thank you for the gifts of Your Word and prayer. Help my love for you to grow as I pursue you through those gifts. Thank you for pursuing me always. Amen.

RENEWING RESOURCES

Start with a plan to succeed, and then adjust as you need to as the year goes on. Find a Bible In A Year Reading Plan that may help you as you plan your spiritual exercise for the year, along with other FREE resources here.

REFLECT

Have I gotten spiritually lazy in my daily habits? What changes can I make to continue growing in my love for Christ?

REMEMBER

You cannot rest on yesterday's growth. Be aware of your habits and how they influence your spiritual growth.