Mid-Week Devotional 3: Running the Race of Faith

Running To God’s presence.

Welcome, to our mid-week devotional. Today, let’s dive into the inspiring message we heard from Jim last Sunday, where he delved into the often-overlooked book of Philemon. As we reflect on his sermon, we’ll explore how we can practically apply its lessons to our lives.

The theme of Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Jim beautifully unpacked Paul’s letter to Philemon, highlighting the central themes of forgiveness and reconciliation. Just as Paul pleaded with Philemon to forgive his runaway slave, Onesimus, so too are we called to extend grace and reconciliation in our own lives.

Analogies of Sports and Running: One striking aspect of Jim’s message was his use of sports analogies to convey spiritual truths. He likened the Christian journey to running a race, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and endurance. Just as athletes train rigorously to achieve victory, so too must we train ourselves spiritually, remaining steadfast in our faith despite the challenges we face.

Surrounding Ourselves with Faithful Companions: Jim reminded us of the significance of surrounding ourselves with faithful companions who will uplift and encourage us in our walk with Christ. Just as Paul had Timothy and Epaphras by his side, we too need companions who will spur us on toward love and good deeds.

Questions for Understanding:

1. What is the main theme of Jim’s sermon from Philemon, and how does he develop it throughout his message?
2. Why does Paul emphasize forgiveness and reconciliation in his letter to Philemon, and how does Jim explore this theme in his sermon?
3. Who are some of the key figures mentioned by Jim from Philemon, and what roles did they play in the narrative or message?

Questions for Application:

1. Reflecting on Jim’s message, how can you practically apply the concept of forgiveness and reconciliation in your own life and relationships?
2. Think about someone in your life who may need forgiveness or reconciliation. How can you extend grace and love to them, following the example set forth in the letter to Philemon?
3. In what ways can you actively seek to surround yourself with faithful companions who will uplift and encourage you in your faith journey, as Jim suggests?
4. Consider the analogy of running a race used in the sermon. What actionable steps can you take to “get in the race” and pursue spiritual growth and maturity?
5. How might you respond to Jim’s call to action to be a source of encouragement and inspiration to others in your community or church?
6. Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Reflecting on Jim’s message, consider areas in your life where forgiveness and reconciliation are needed. How can you extend grace to those who have wronged you, following the example set forth in Philemon?
7. Running the Race of Faith: In what ways can you actively pursue spiritual growth and maturity, likened to running a race? What steps can you take to strengthen your faith and endurance?
8. Surrounding Yourself with Faithful Companions: Take a moment to assess your circle of friends and acquaintances. Are there individuals who uplift and encourage you in your faith journey? How can you cultivate deeper relationships with those who share your commitment to Christ?

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we come before you with hearts full of gratitude for the message we heard from Jim this past Sunday. Thank you for the example of forgiveness and reconciliation set forth in the book of Philemon. Help us, Lord, to extend grace to those who have wronged us and to pursue spiritual growth with perseverance and endurance. Surround us with faithful companions who will uplift and encourage us in our walk with you. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.

Closing Thoughts: As we go about our week, let’s keep these lessons from Philemon close to our hearts. May we extend forgiveness and reconciliation to those in need, persevere in our race of faith, and surround ourselves with faithful companions who will uplift and encourage us along the way. Remember, dear friends, that we do not run this race alone, but with Christ as our guide and strength.