You know the story. An attention-deficit hare races a plodding tortoise. What should have been an easy rabbit-win turns into a surprise turtle-victory. After all, rabbits are known for their speed. Surely it could easily outrace a turtle—the slowest of all creatures. What happened? How did this upset occur? The rabbit was distracted while the turtle kept its focus. The rabbit became sidetracked with other things, took a nap, tried a short cut. He thought he had plenty of time. The turtle knew the truth—he’d never make it unless he kept at it.
Just like us. We become distracted on our spiritual journey. We know better. Somewhere inside of us there is that spark of desire for the things of God. We decide to do better, to make it right. We intend to read the Bible, pray, attend church, find a Bible study. But life happens, distracts us, and pulls our eyes away from God. It’s easy to procrastinate.
Instead of trying to do it all at once, why not jump in the race wherever you are. Say a prayer today. Read a passage from Scripture today. Ask for forgiveness right now. Join the turtle: one step at a time, one task beneath your feet, keep at it. You’ll be glad you did when you cross the finish line.
I have seen something else under the sun: The race is not to the swift or the battle to the strong. Ecclesiastes 9:11a
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Hebrews 12:1
