Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us (Hebrews 12:1). Hebrews 12:2 tells us we do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus.
As Christians, children of God, we have all been chosen to run the race of a lifetime. Anyone who decides to run in a race first and foremost requires training. This particular method of training requires Jesus Christ to be our frontrunner, because all eyes must be on Him! Do Not run past Him (you will miss something every time) we are learning to focus on Jesus and disciplining ourselves to follow His lead.
If we are going to train spiritually it is imperative that we begin with prayer. Before daybreak Jesus would go to an isolated quiet place to pray. He started His day with prayer so in order for us to follow in His footsteps we should also begin our day with prayer. Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart (Colossians 4:2). This is our way of letting God know we are awake and ready. In knowing this we need to listen quietly for any instruction God has for us.
We also need to read and study the Word of God daily to gain knowledge, understanding, and wisdom. Since the Bible is our book of instruction we need to be obedient to what God is telling us. God has already equipped us to do this. But the word is very near you, in your mouth and in your heart, that you may do it (Deuteronomy 30:14, NKJV). Fellowship is also very important. Surrounding ourselves with others who will hold us accountable for the pace we are running. At times we want to give up especially after a hard fall. This is why fellowship with out brothers and sisters in Christ is so important. We have to lift each other up, dust each other off, and stay in the race.
I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us (Philippians 3:14).