Welcome to the blog of Pastor Alton Stone, from Simpsonville, SC. Pastor Stone is a retired Ordained Bishop of The Church of God, Cleveland, Tennessee with over 45 years of pastoral ministry.

Friday, September 2, 2016

Running With Horses (Part 3)

Jeremiah 12:5 “If you have run with the footmen, and they have wearied you, then how can you contend with horses? And if in the land of peace, in which you trusted, they wearied you, then how will you do in the floodplain of the Jordan? For even your brothers, the house of your father, even they have dealt treacherously with you; yes, they have called a multitude after you. Do not believe them, even though they speak smooth words to you.”

We have learned to be content with the average and mundane in todays world. Instead of rising up to meet high standards, we make excuses to just get by. Rather than increase our endurance and seek greater achievements most folks just want to survive. It is with that in mind that God spoke these words of truth to Jeremiah. The Lord knew that his journey would be filled with disgrace and ridicule, but he wanted him to be strong and above average for the long haul ahead.

You might be able to keep up with those around you on foot, but when it comes to running with horses it's a different story. Not only is it an incredible pace, but it's one that requires stamina and intestinal fortitude. In other words, you got to have guts to rise above the crowd and be what you are capable of being.

Earlier today on the radio I heard the announcer say,"If we all could go back in time and do life all over again what a different story we would tell." Well, that's why Jesus came and paid the price for us that we might have "new" life and have it more abundantly. Does that mean you'll be richer, healthier, or better looking? No, but it means you will take advantage of every opportunity that God makes available to you with a greater fervor than ever before. You will not let one day pass without the knowledge that you gave it your very best regardless of the outcome.

Jeremiah knew he had opposition, and you will to if you try to be the best you can be for God. I'm not talking about being so heavenly minded that you're no earthly good or setting an unreasonable expectation that will surely meet failure. I'm just simply saying don't let the dilemmas of your past prevent you from the possibilities of your future. The only thing that stands between you and the supernatural blessings of God is what you allow.

You will deal with naysayers, jealousy, envy, strife bearers, and other things seeking to prevent you from reaching your potential. Don't grow weary from running with the footmen or hanging around a bunch of turkeys; Set your affections on things above and finish the race you are blessed to run. The two most important words you want to hear at the end of it, are "Well Done!"

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