Sweeter Than HoneySample

Conquer the Rocky Road

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing. —2 Timothy 4:7-8

Like butter pecan, rocky road has hard stuff (nuts) hidden in it. But rocky road also has good stuff (marshmallows and chocolate). That’s pretty much a picture of our life here on earth. It has ups and downs, seasons to celebrate and seasons to mourn (Ecc. 3:1-8). 

But no matter what circumstances you find yourself in, and even how you react to them (good and bad), what matters is the finish. Sometimes it’s a fight to the finish, as Timothy illustrates. 

And sometimes it’s a marathon, as Paul states in Hebrews 12:1: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.”

Plus, the track isn’t level or smooth. There are obstacles, messy sections and hills to climb. The Bible has much to say about perseverance (Jas. 1:12), endurance (Col. 1:11) and overcoming the odds (1 Jn. 5:4). It’s training we all need. 

Discovering these truths and trusting that God can empower you to cross the finish line; He wants to get you over the rocky terrain and help you enjoy the good times along the way.

 Points to Ponder:  

• What’s one sport or event that was so hard you had to give up? 
• Think of one way you can build up your spiritual endurance. 
• When you’re facing an uphill challenge, say this pledge using 2 Timothy 4:8: “I [will] fight the good fight, I [will] finish the race, and I [will] remain faithful.” 

Find 6 sweet Bible study methods and more at wycliffe.org/savor.