Day 15: Keep Running the Race

Let’s take a moment today to be with God. If you want to do this as a family, we encourage you to set aside time after your own quiet time to go through the family content at the bottom together.

PAUSE

“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, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”—Hebrews 12:1–3 (NIV)

Have you ever tried to run in sandals or slides? It's a struggle, right? You’re focused on running, but you’re also trying to keep your sandals from falling off, which slows you down. Similarly, we can’t run our spiritual race well if we’re weighed down by distractions or sin.

As you enter the final week of your fast, you may feel tempted to give up. This is a common spiritual battle, just like the one Jesus faced when He fasted in the wilderness. To stay strong, the author of Hebrews gives us two key pieces of advice:

• Fix your eyes on Jesus—don’t focus on the temptations or distractions, but draw near to Him.
• Remember, you’re not alone—you have a community of believers around you. Stay accountable and encourage one another.

PONDER

Who have you shared this journey with? Is there someone you can invite to join you, someone who can support you or pray alongside you?

PRAY

Father, thank You for the strength and perseverance Your Son displayed in the face of temptation and suffering. I ask for Your protection and peace in this final week of the fast. Help me stay focused on Jesus, and give me strength to cast off anything that hinders me. Surround me with fellow believers as we run this race together. Amen.

For Your Family

PAUSE

Read Hebrews 12:1–3 out loud with your kids. Whether you go on a walk, talk in the car, discuss at dinner, or gather before bed, choose a time in your day to discuss and pray together.

PONDER

Share the main idea with them.

• We can run the race when we keep our eyes on Jesus.

Ask them:

• What makes it hard for you to live for Jesus? How can you keep your eyes on Him?

PRAY

Guide your children to pray using these prayer points.

• Thank Jesus for going before us and winning!
• Ask God to help you let go of all sin that keeps you from living for Jesus.
• Pray that you and your family will look to Jesus every day.

Pray this over your children:

Father, thank You for what Jesus did for us! I pray my kids (name them) will be protected and feel Your peace this week. Help them stay focused on You, Jesus. Bring them good friends to follow You with. Amen.