This Is the Day the Lord Has MadeSample

THE SUFFICIENCY OF CHRIST

During one of my cross-country seasons, I had shin splints. I did my best to take care of them so I could still compete. There was this big meet hosted by Nike called "Hole in the Wall." It was the last couple of 5K's l had to run that season. So, while I was running this race about 2 miles in, my shins were hurting. I wasn't sure if I could finish this race; I had slowed down and was losing sight of that finish line, debating on giving up.

I started to pray while I slowly jogged. I asked God to get me through and help guide me with every step. Shortly after I had gotten to the next corner, my coach was there encouraging me. Reminding me that I could do it. I was so close, and I would not give up now. I kept talking with God as I continued, and He showed up. I wasn't fighting this battle alone; He helped me finish that race, and I made it to the finish line. Not only did I finish, but I also got a PR (Personal Record). I was so thankful God was there to help me not lose sight of Him.

“Such is the confidence that we have through Christ toward God. Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God, who has made us sufficient to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of spirit. For the letter kills, but the spirit gives life.”

These Bible verses talk about how fulfillment in life cannot be found in ourselves but in God. He has created us to spread His word and be His example of His love. But we cannot succeed without Him and His guidance, just as I could not have finished that race without Him.

Lord, I pray you will be with anyone who is going through something hard right now. Please show them your presence and shine your love on them. Remind them that they are not alone. Please uplift them and give them peace and strength. - Amen

Leila Sroka, 11th grade