Running Towards Eternity
Day 5, Week 2 | FOCUS
Hebrews 12:1-3 (ESV)
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.
2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (ESV)
For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, 18 as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.
1 Peter 1:6-7 (ESV)
In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
In Hebrews 12, we’re reminded to keep our eyes on Jesus as we run, not just for today, but with eternity in view. Running with an eternal perspective changes everything. It helps us see our trials, our triumphs, and even our pain in a new light. Instead of being weighed down by what’s temporary, we’re able to focus on what’s lasting, on what truly matters.
Paul shares this perspective in 2 Corinthians 4:17-18: “For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison.” Think about that. The struggles we face now are real, and they’re hard, but they’re also temporary. In comparison to the eternal glory God has promised, they are “light” and “momentary.” This doesn’t minimize our pain or make it disappear, but it does give us hope, a way of seeing beyond the momentary into the eternal.
Peter echoes this in 1 Peter 1:6-7, where he writes, “In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith…may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” Trials have a purpose. God uses them to refine our faith, shaping us for the eternal glory that’s coming. Keeping eternity in view allows us to see even our hardest moments as part of God’s refining process.
When we focus only on the here and now, our perspective becomes narrow, limited by our immediate circumstances. We’re tempted to let our fears, struggles, and even achievements define us. But God invites us to a much larger vision. He calls us to run this race with eternity driving us, knowing that every sacrifice, every act of faith, and every moment of endurance is part of something much bigger.
Today, reflect on what it means to live with eternity in mind. Instead of asking, “How does this affect me right now?” ask, “How does this shape my faith and prepare me for eternity?” Our ultimate hope isn’t in success, comfort, or an easy life. It’s in the promise of being with Jesus forever. Fixing our eyes on Him isn’t just about surviving the present. It’s about running toward a future that’s certain and unshakeable.
As you go through today, remind yourself that you’re part of a much bigger story. Your race is not defined by the difficulties you face, but by the eternal promises of God. Trust that every step, every struggle, and every moment of perseverance is leading you toward a glory that outweighs them all. Keep running, knowing that with Jesus as your focus, you’re not running in vain.
Reflect: Where in your life do you need to focus on eternity rather than temporary struggles?
Pray: Father, help me to see the eternal glory that awaits. Let my life reflect the joy of eternity even in today’s struggles.
Act: Spend a few moments in worship today, lifting your focus from the temporary to the eternal. Reflect on the eternal impact of fixing your eyes on Jesus.
