Run Well: Insights From Hebrews 12Sample

The writer of Hebrews says to strengthen yourself—personally, spiritually, internally. Ten verses prior, he called for our eyes to be fixed on Jesus (Hebrews 12:2). Earlier, he urged us to “draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and may find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16, ESV). He pronounces a benediction in the next chapter, petitioning the God of personal peace and resurrection power who can “equip you in every good thing to do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight” (Hebrews 13:21, NASB-95).

A gracious host from Grenada once invited me to return to “the isle of SPICE, where everything is nice,” to be strengthened in spirit and body. “SPICE” helps me remember what to ask God for daily: spiritual, physical, intellectual, capital (human, financial, social), and emotional resources to be personally strong.

By strengthening ourselves, we will be the stronger ones among the weak, the well among the sick. We will personally own our responsibility in the race by building capacity and gaining capability.

A mix and match of capacity and capability fits Paul’s declaration from prison: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13, NKJV). With Christ as the source and supply of personal strength, we can run marathon-strong. I asked a friend about how he was doing during his days after surgery. His well-used line was, “I don’t feel strong, but I do feel strengthened.” To be strengthened is to increase in capacity and capability.

Strengthen yourselves, personally, spiritually, internally. If your arms are feeble, lift them before the Lord. If your knees are weak, bend them before the Lord. Keep watch where you run, so your limbs will not be twisted. Arms, knees, and feet will be strengthened for the load we must carry, for this road we must journey.