The Bible is filled with instructions to Christians designed to alert them of the danger they face in remaining faithful to the Lord. These warnings are not found to discourage us, but to help us think soberly about the road we travel. I found the following list and it had a profound impact on me as I read it. I hope that it will have the same impact on you. Remember these are heaven’s words about our walk as Christians.
Strive to enter the strait gate (Luke 13:24).
Fight to lay hold on to eternal life (1 Tim. 6:12).
Run that you may obtain the crown (1 Cor. 9:24).
Hold fast to what you have heard (Rev. 3:3).
Press on to the goal for the prize (Phil. 4:14).
Pray that you enter not into temptation (Luke 22:40).
Look to yourselves to receive the full reward (2 John 8).
Take heed lest you fall (1 Cor. 10:12)
Watch that you enter not into temptation (Matt. 26:41).
Fear lest you come short of entering (Heb. 4:2)
Watch that you may be ready (Matt. 24:42-44).
Take heed lest you depart from the living God (Heb. 3:12).
Be diligent be found blameless (2 Pet. 3:14).
Take heed how you build on the foundation (1 Cor. 3: 10).
Trembling work out your own salvation (Phil. 2:12).
Take heed that you be not deceived (Luke 21:8).
Watch lest He find you sleeping (Mark 13:36-37).
Prove yourself lest you are disqualified (2 Cor. 13:5).
Take heed lest your heart be weighed down (Luke 21:34).
Looking diligently lest you fail (Heb. 12:15).
Do not faint and you will reap (Gal. 6:9).
Be vigilant for Satan seeks to devour (1 Pet. 5:8).
The list of verses encouraging us to remain faithful is almost endless. Take time to read the list again and then think about the seriousness of the commitment we have made. It is time for sober reflections. We cannot afford to turn back, for the reward ahead is so marvelous.
Remember that the Lord is doing all He can to insure we win! He is faithful and will never allow us to be tempted beyond our limits. He always provides the way of escape. He does not look for sinless perfection, He only wants faithfulness. He stands beside us to lift us up and He stands before us awaiting our arrival at the finish line.
So let’s run the race together. Let’s encourage each other. Just remember to watch out for the potholes!