I Have to Qualify to Run the Race

In 1987, Coach Hendricks demanded athletes from other sports to run track,
Initially, we weren’t happy, but of course, true athletes desire to make an impact;

So, players from the basketball and football teams joined the track squad,
We loved the competition, but man those practices every day were hard;

We weren’t familiar with the track rules or protocols,
Yet, we had raw athletic talent, and we beat them all;

Our 4 by 100 team smashed the competition city and state-wide,
Our feelings begin to change, as first place was the norm at the finish line;

Then, we were invited to the world-famous Penn Relays,
We didn’t know what to expect from runners from near and far away;

On your mark, get set, GO!
Our 4 by 100 team made teams across the country look slow;

We jumped for joy at the finish line,
We kissed babies while autographs were signed;

We celebrated and even taunted our opponents,
We thought we were the best at this track tournament;

Coach Hendricks rushed towards us appearing angry and embarrassed,
Our original and veteran track teammates began pointing and laughing at us;

What’s wrong Coach Hendricks, we won our 4 by 100 event,
He said you won 1 heat out of 20 heats coming up to contend;

We were humiliated that our running time did not qualify,
We bypassed the value of the process and challenges, so we were denied;

This reminds me of the tribulations in our spiritual race,
Taking the credit, not trusting the Lord, nor realizing His grace;

So, the times we are feeling defeated, fatigue or against the ropes,
The Lord is producing perseverance, character, and hope;

There are no losers, and this hope does not disappoint,
The gifts and abilities that are given, the Lord will anoint;

So, those who want to advance and finish the race,
Receive and activate the Holy Spirit to claim first place;

The Lord’s test and lessons reveal to us overtime what it takes,
He’s allowed multiple heats for us to get it right in the spiritual race;

Therefore, we are more prone to stay in our lane, while keeping our eyes on the win,
Let’s get our victorious trophy, but make sure we give all the glory to Him;

Prayer: What a God we serve! Lord, we know You laugh out loud at us. However, to make us in Your image, there are some preliminary assignments that are there to prepare us. We already got the victory.  The Lord desires to use us to witness to others about our Kingdom team. To qualify, accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and savior and confess you are a sinner. Our Coach will train you up to be A Kingdom Class Witness. The rewards are much better than being a World Class Athlete. Lord, thank You for Your patience. You are an awesome Coach. We are qualified and ready to run the race. In the name of Jesus, Amen!  
By Bro. Glenny Moore