Lesson 23: MILE MARKERS ON A CHRISTIANS JOURNEY.

MEMORY VERSE – “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize, so run that ye may obtain”. 1 Corinthians 9:24
LESSON TEXT-2 Timothy 4: 7; Hebrew 12:1-2.

INTRODUCTION

Christians today are faced with a different world system than generations before them. The comforts of life and feel-good Christianity for those who live in wealthy Nations versus the daily struggles of life for persecuted and economically disadvantaged Christians who out of necessity are often forced to either choose to sacrifice for flesh or choose a devoted Christian path. These challenges are reminders that we are in a race. It is therefore important that we become equipped and prepared to run and finish the race we are called to run.

LESSON OUTLINE

1. DEFINITION.
2. DECISION.

LESSON CONTENT

1. DEFINITION
   Markers are placed in every race. Spiritual and Natural markers help gauge speed and distance, they help with strategies and in planning until we get to the finish line, Heb.12:1-2
   Martin Luther King said, “We are not what we ought to be, we are not what we want to be, we are not what we would be but thank God we are not where we used to be,” This is progress brethren. We must make it to the finish line.
2. DECISIONS.
   Like Apostle Paul we started our race at salvation and will, like him, experience directional challenges and distractions from persecutions, fatigue, worldly commitment, lack of support and financial restraints etc. Gal. 1: 15-21; 2 Cor. 5: 17. So, the followings could serve as our guide:
   ·Direction-what is your calling? Which direction are you racing to? Are you in your lane? Pro. 14: 12-13, Rom. 15: 19, 1 Cor.12:4-8, Luke 9: 49-50. We are in the same race to same destination but in different lanes. Stay in your lane and if you are unsure, take time to ask God for directions.
   ·Do it List-Have your goals and vision clear, general (evangelism) and specifics (pastor, helper, administrator, ushering, teacher etc.) Eph. 4: 11-12. Paul was called to the gentiles, Peter to the Jews, but our Lord Jesus was sent to the World
   ·Distractions and Demands-what are the challenges Christians face in life? What will you need to overcome to finish the race?
   Sinful and compromising lifestyle, Heb. 12:1-2.
   o Laziness, Pro. 22:13-15
   o Failure to count the cost. Luke 14: 28. Some people over commit and end up falling off while others become careless about their walk with God.
   o Fatigue and discouragement 1 Kings 19: 1-4. In our Christian walk it is easy to give up when faced with challenges that appear overwhelming.
   o Lack of helpers and resources, Eccl. 4: 9-12, even our Lord Jesus had helpers and access to earthly resources, two are better than one. The race is hard without support from others.
   o Persecution and satanic opposition, 1 Cor. 16:9; John 10: 10.the Enemy, Satan is looking to hinder us from finishing the race.
   o Worldly pre-occupations, 2 Tim. 2: 4; Matt. 6: 24. When there is no time in your schedule for God, are you still in the race?
   ·Demands and Dependence-What you must have and do to finish the race.
   o God’s anointing and grace on us daily, 1 Sam. 16:18; Ex.33:15.
   o Wisdom and diligence, Pr. 22: 29.
   o Helpers and support of believers, Pr. 16: 14; Eccl.4:9-12; Heb.13:17,10:25
   ·Distance-endurance-Eccl. 9: 11 (NLT); Pro. 24:16; Matt.24: 13. The race is not 100 meters dash but a marathon. Need to endure to the end, do regular self-check, Heb. 5: 12; 2 Cor.13:5. Again, Martin Luther King said “If you can’t fly, run, if you can’t run, walk, if you can’t walk, crawl, whatever you do keep moving.

CONCLUSION

What legacy will you leave behind at the end of your race here on earth? How many lives will you have impacted? Do you know where you will end after this world? Do you expect any rewards from God the vision giver? 2 Tim 4: 7-10; Heb. 9: 27.

QUESTIONS

1. Mention some of the spiritual markers in the bible and their exploits.
2. What advice will you give someone who is almost on verge of giving up on his Christian walk

ASSIGNMENT

Students should work on the obstacles towards finishing strong. Analysis on how and why they are obstacles should be considered.