Several years ago, a Christian movie launched called, “Overcomer.” The storyline is about a young high school student with asthma who tries out for the track team. Her coach is skeptical of her abilities. It’s revealed that she was raised by her grandma and had been told that her father was dead. By accident her coach meets her father, who has gone blind because of diabetes. At one time, he had been a track star. The young girl meets him and they begin a relationship.
On the day of a big 3-mile race, her coach puts earbuds in her ears and tells her to turn it on when the race begins. To her surprise, she hears her dad’s voice and he will be coaching her through the race. As she runs, he reminds her to pace herself, push through the pain, and keep going. His voice is gentle but strong. She listens to him and wins the race. A touching story.
This movie reminds me that we too need coaches every now and then. I’m thinking that the writer of Hebrews was conveying the same thing to his audience. He had just given them a list of faithful people who had gone on before them (Hebrews 11). And then he says… “Since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses… let us run with endurance.” In other words, let their testimonies and legacies spur you on. When you’re feel depleted, tired, discouraged, and ready to give up, remember them. Their stories will coach you and help you along the way.
Do you need coaching today? Do you need someone to spur you on? Then find a coach through others who have either gone on ahead of you (biblical examples are perfect for this) or someone who is living a faithful life in front of you. Examine their life. Say to yourself… If they can do it, then I can too. Daniel has become my coach recently since I’ve been emersed in his life as I write a study on Daniel. He has spurred me on in so many ways.
One of my goals for these daily devotionals is that they become a coach to many. My desire is that they spur God’s people on as they continue this journey. These short messages are designed to come alongside YOU to help you cross that finish line. If you need a coach today, then find one. If you know of someone who needs a coach, then be that coach to them. Let us “spur one another on to love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24).