Daily Devotional: I will receive the crown of life!

Read James 1:12

When I was in junior high, I was introduced to the joys of running. I would find routes to run in my neighborhood and would time myself. Eventually, I reached the point where I felt that soon I would be able to run three miles; however, I could not run quite the full three miles without slowing to a walk. I kept trying, though, and at the beginning of a run one day, I was certain that today was the day I would run the whole three miles. I promised God that if I ran the whole route without walking, I would shout “Praise the Lord!” at the end of my run. As I was nearing the end of this run, I realized I was going to have to make good on my promise to God. I was very excited about the fact that I actually ran the whole three miles, but a little nervous about shouting “Praise the Lord!” for all my neighbors to hear. I reached the end of the sidewalk in front of our home, which marked the end of my run. I turned up the alley, jogged a few steps, then shouted – a bit timid, but still a shout – “PRAISE THE LORD!” I giggled a little and jogged to the back door. I have no idea how many neighbors heard my cry, but I know the Lord did. I like to think He smiled at this child whom He was grooming to one day persevere under trial, so that I could spend eternity with Him.

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for giving me strength to persevere. I do love You and thank You for promising me the Crown of Life! In Jesus’ name I pray – Amen.