All believers are in a race. The purpose of the race is to make heaven and win the prize and get the rewards of a life well lived. You must never forget that in life you get to run once, so run to win. To avoid stumbling or losing your place, you must run wisely:

Don't Look Back: Looking back causes a lot of stumbling. You can't change the past  but thank God you can learn from it and leave it behind

Anxiety is Detrimental: Don't be anxious about the next lap, focus only on the next step. Don't worry about the future. Only God know the future, and you can rest knowing that your future is in the hands of a good God who loves you and wants the best for you.

You Will Fall Sometimes: We all fall as we run and that's ok as long as we get up again and keep going. The temptation to give up can be very strong when the winds are contrary and it seems you are not making any progress. During these times, it is important to know that The Holy Spirit your helper is right beside you helping you take the next step. Ask for His help.

No Excess Baggage Allowed: Many of us carry the weight and burdens that are of no real importance. Don't waste time and strength extinguishing fires that if left alone, would burn out on their own. Time is your most valuable resource. Use it wisely. Get rid of the baggage of old relationships, pointless fears and people whose primary goal is to hinder you. There are enough painful trials in life; why endure the ones you can lay aside? When blind Bartimaeus heard that Jesus was calling for Him, he threw off his coat lest it trip him up and ran toward Jesus.

Oh the joy that awaits us when we finally get to the finish line! The prize will worth it all.