"so that you will not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and endurance inherit the promises." - Hebrews 6:12

Have you ever joined a long distance race? At the beginning, you are full of energy and enthusiasm. A few minutes in, your legs get tired, your breathing gets heavy, and you start slowing down or stopping for breaks.

Following Jesus is similar to a long distance run. At first, we may be very excited to worship God, serve at church, and do good. Over time, we get tired, bored, or forget our reasons why. This is what the Bible refers to as being sluggish—slow, lazy, not caring as much as before.

Jesus reminds us runners that we are like salt. One of the uses of salt is as a flavouring. Adding only small amounts of salt to food results in big flavours. But, if salt loses its flavour, it's useless. In the same way, when we stop running our best for God, we are of no use to Him.

So, how are we able to persevere and stay “flavourful”? We remain resolved running the race right next to Jesus when we:

• Learn His Word

• Pray everyday

• Keep trying, even when it’s hard

• Serve with joy and gratefulness, not because we “have to,” just because we love Him

No matter the shape or size of our efforts, God will see that we run and finish the race well.

Family Altar

Use these discussion questions and our prayer as a guide for your family altar.

Parents can lead the prayer and invite their children to repeat after them or encourage their children to take the lead, making family altar time a shared journey of faith.

Discussion Questions:

• Have you ever felt tired or lazy when serving God? What made you feel that way?

• What is one way you can stay “strong in the race” this week—at home, school, or church?

• Who is someone you admire for their faith and patience? What can you learn from them?
  

Prayer in Words:

In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, we pray.

Thank You for loving us and helping us follow You.

Sometimes, we get tired or lazy in doing what is right.

Please keep our hearts strong and excited for You.

Show us how to serve You with joy, not give up, and be channels of blessing to others.

Thank You for running this race with us.

Hallelujah, Amen.