Olympic athletes, especially track and field competitors, are amazing. Blazing speed. Incredible endurance. Running is particularly interesting, not to mention running is mentioned in the Bible as well on a few occasions. Not that that is what makes it amazing, but we can learn some things about faith from these athletes.
The apostle Paul likens our faith journey to running a race. He emphasizes the importance of taking each step intentionally, just as runners do on the track. The parallel between faith and running becomes evident when we consider how these athletes run.
If we watch these racers we notice a distinct feature in their running technique. They don't simply settle into a casual pace; instead, they lean forward, putting their weight onto the balls of their feet. This posture generates momentum, propelling them forward with every stride. Their feet become instruments to prevent falling, while the forward momentum keeps them in motion.
Likewise, our faith journey demands a similar leaning-in approach. Imagine leaning into your faith with the same determination that propels Olympic athletes forward. Leaning into your faith means embracing it fully, allowing it to carry you forward one step at a time. It involves dedicating yourself to spiritual growth and discovery, even when uncertainty and obstacles lie ahead.
Just as runners cannot stop easily once they've built momentum, leaning into your faith generates its own inertia. Every stride becomes an opportunity to draw closer to your ideal faith. Each step you take brings you closer to your spiritual goals, propelling you forward in your journey toward God.
So, consider your faith journey as a race—one that requires leaning into it with purpose and dedication. Embrace the momentum you build with each step, and remember that just like Olympic runners, you won't want to stop once you experience the progress that leaning into your faith brings. Take that first step, lean forward, and let your faith carry you onward, one stride at a time.
Learn more about leaning into your faith with The Faith Principles: A Christian Guide to the Faith of Your Dreams
