Get Up and Run
Though a righteous person falls seven times, he will get up, but the wicked will stumble into ruin. (Proverbs 24:16)
Though he falls, he will not be overwhelmed, because the LORD supports him with his hand. (Psalm 37:24)
During the 1500 metre qualifying heat at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Sifan Hassan, representing the Netherlands, fell after she stumbled over another runner.
She could have stayed down and lodged a protest, and that would allow her a re-run.
However, she did not. Instead, she jumped back to her feet and sprinted.
She overtook the 11 runners in front of her and ended up first. She qualified for a place in the final race.
During the 1500 metre final race, Hassan won the bronze medal.
But she went on to win gold medals for the 5,000 and 10,000 metre races. Altogether, she won three medals for the Netherlands.
What captured the world’s attention was her never-give-up spirit.
Victory does not always go to the best. It goes to those who are persistent.
The race of life is never a smooth ride.
There are obstacles along the way that will cause you to stumble.
If you fall, never stay down. Stand up and continue running. You will never win the race by staying down, grumbling, complaining, blaming others.
The devil wants you to stay down. He does not want you to progress in your spiritual journey.
Get up and run. Try again. Learn from past mistakes. Don’t wait for to be picked up. Don’t give up.
Your competitors are pride, lust, jealousy, unforgiveness, self-righteousness, hypocrisy, covetousness, lack of love.
If you get up and continue running, you will overtake your competitors and cross the finish line victorious.
By God’s help, you can finish the race and win your prize.
(MT)