The Golden Nugget: Life is a marathon, and God offers us the strength to keep running.

Daily Verse: “We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you.” —1 Thessalonians 1:3–4

Daily Message:
You’ve probably heard of a marathon runner’s experience called “the wall.” The wall is a point in every race, whether it’s your first marathon or you are a 26.2-mile veteran. When runners “hit the wall” they experience immediate fatigue and loss of energy because their muscles are depleted of the stored sugars that provide energy. The runner’s body tells the brain, “I can’t do it anymore. I can’t make it.”

Imagine the life events that make you feel like you’re hitting the wall. God’s enemy is like the depletion of energy. The voice that says, “Life is too hard. I can’t go on.” It tries to convince you that God has abandoned you, that he is just shrugging and saying, “I got nothin’.” 

That’s when faith, hope, and love come in. They are the energy drinks God has provided. Each is a cooling, cleansing splash in the face that overcomes the doubt and empty loneliness that threaten to lose sight of God’s outcome for you. Have you tried God’s restoration? He will give you what you need for the next race.

Consider This:

• What’s been the most difficult life event you have experienced?
• How have you helped someone else get through “the wall” during a difficult time?

Take Action:
List the top five positive experiences in your life. What was the wall in each? Take time to thank the people who played a part in helping you overcome the wall.