There's someone I know that I don't particularly like but I'd like to do a few of the things this person does. I know it doesn't make a whole lot of sense, but in some strange way I feel like I need to be equal or better than this person. This person likes to run, which makes me want to run. It's really, really strange (and insecure) of me to aspire to run a race just because this person does it; like running a race will somehow make me a better person.
I digress, but a few months ago I read a book about insecurity. One of the points that stuck with me was this: an insecure person constantly looks for that "one more thing" to make them feel better about themselves. For example, I might say, "If I got my hair done, I'd feel better about myself." Well, let's say I got my hair done. I might feel good for a little while BUT then the feeling would fade and I'd be looking for the next thing. "If only I had a new shirt, I'd feel better." So on and so forth. With that said, I doubt heavily that running a race would satiate my insecurity.
I was reading a women's magazine tonight and I came across a Bible verse that brought tears to my eyes:
"Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever." 1 Corinthians 9:25
Don't get me wrong. I see nothing wrong with running a race and winning a prize. But for me, this verse runs deeper than that. Talk about a change in my perspective. I don't know about you, but far too often I get caught up in this world - my feelings, others' possessions, talents (or lack thereof), money, pain, etc. I know I should keep an eternal perspective. None of us will live here forever. None of us.
The thought of a crown that lasts forever motivates me to run the race worth running, the race toward Christ.
