Complete the Race: Keeping the Momentum Alive!
Written by Dr. Geraldine McInnis, "Dr.Mom"
"I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favor to men of skill; but time and chance happens to them all." (Ecclesiastes 9:11)
We have reached the folding period of 2008 and the Body of Christ is moving forward in great anticipation towards goals and time-lines. The end of June will bring a conclusion to six months of progression and succession for many dedicated leaders. I want to commend you for a job well done! However, do not stop! Do not become comfortable! Do not become intoxicated over yesterdays successes neither become defeated over yesterdays challenges.
Women of faith, it is not time to throw in the towel! Use that towel to wipe away signs of sweat, tears and blood. Use that towel to wipe the feet and the brow of another sister in distress. Wave the towel only after you have crossed the finished line and fully completed the task. Even then, wave it in adoration, praise and thanksgiving before God in worship!
There are three trends we must consistently model as we keep the momentum of a runner graced with patience and completing the race that is set before us. In order for us to know the will and plan of God, we must know His moves, management and mind.
There are three changes I want to explore: Transition, Transaction, and Transformation. I believe each one of these actions are imperative to successfully and effectively complete one's course. First of all, trans is a prefix that means movement from place to place; going across, through or beyond.
- There must be transition or the changing of one's position. Transition ushers us into God's wind and moves. It moves us from a place of familiarity, satisfaction and comfort. It lifts us in our spirit and causes us to change our methods in how we proceed on our purposed path. The wind of transition will shift or raise us and make us 'sit' together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. (read Eph. 2:6)
- There must be transaction or the action of carrying on business. Transaction deals with management strategies in the market-place. It is associated with the interaction of an individual with another person in negotiations, investments and contractual agreements. Jesus spoke about the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30. We are to be wise and active in our stewardship, service and sowing (investments). That account shows that a particular business man trusted his money to his own servants (not strangers). He expected them to bring about increase with what he gave them until he returned. There are three words that stood out during my time of studying. One man traded his talents and doubled his amount. The other man also gained increase. However, the last man hid the lord's money. At the end the owner called him "wicked, slothful and unprofitable!" Workers of God, use what you have but never dig a hole and hide your gifts, talents, resources or opportunities due to fear of failure. Hiding anything speaks about your character...a thief hides; a guilty person hides; a lazy person hides.
- There must be transformation or the process of changing form and appearance. Transformation speaks of the mind of God. Before God formed you He already 'knew' you. You were already in His mind! (read Jeremiah 1:5). In our sinful and carnal nature we began to conform or connect and comply to this world. We had to make a transit trip and take on the mind of Christ. In doing so we can see ourselves the way God originally saw us. Therefore, in order for us to represent the Kingdom of God, as ambassadors, we must not be conformed to this world. But, we must be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Then we will be able to prove to mankind what is the good, acceptable and perfect will of God!
Continue on your path daughters of destiny! Complete the assignment and remember that He who began a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ! (Phil. 1:6)
About the Author
Dr. Geraldine McInnis lives in Bowie, MD and is joined in marriage and ministry with her husband Larry for over 30 years. They have three adult children and one grandson.Geraldine earned her Masters Degree in Christian Counseling and a Doctorate in Theology. She is a crisis interventionist and has pastored for over 16 years.She is one of the refreshing prophetic voices in the Christian arena.
