02.07.2024 Views

Finishing the Race

Of all the games instituted among the Greeks and the Romans, the races were the most ancient and the most highly esteemed … The contests were governed by strict regulations, from which there was no appeal. Those who desired their names entered as competitors for the prize had first to undergo a severe preparatory training. Harmful indulgence of appetite, or any other gratification that would lower mental or physical vigour, was strictly forbidden. For one to have any hope of success in these trials of strength and speed, the muscles must be strong and supple, and the nerves well under control. Every movement must be certain, every step swift and unswerving; the physical powers must reach the highest mark.

Of all the games instituted among the Greeks and the Romans, the races were the most ancient and the most highly esteemed … The contests were governed by strict regulations, from which there was no appeal. Those who desired their names entered as competitors for the prize had first to undergo a severe preparatory training. Harmful indulgence of appetite, or any other gratification that would lower mental or physical vigour, was strictly forbidden. For one to have any hope of success in these trials of strength and speed, the muscles must be strong and supple, and the nerves well under control. Every movement must be certain, every step swift and unswerving; the physical powers must reach the highest mark.

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when I make up My jewels; and I will spare <strong>the</strong>m, as a man spareth his own son that serveth<br />

him." Malachi 3:17. If <strong>the</strong> blood of Christ's faithful witnesses were shed at this time, it<br />

would not, like <strong>the</strong> blood of <strong>the</strong> martyrs, be as seed sown to yield a harvest for God.<br />

Their fidelity would not be a testimony to convince o<strong>the</strong>rs of <strong>the</strong> truth; for <strong>the</strong> obdurate<br />

heart has beaten back <strong>the</strong> waves of mercy until <strong>the</strong>y return no more. If <strong>the</strong> righteous were<br />

now left to fall a prey to <strong>the</strong>ir enemies, it would be a triumph for <strong>the</strong> prince of darkness.<br />

Says <strong>the</strong> psalmist: "In <strong>the</strong> time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion: in <strong>the</strong> secret of<br />

His tabernacle shall He hide me." Psalm 27:5. Christ has spoken: "Come, My people, enter<br />

thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about <strong>the</strong>e: hide thyself as it were for a little<br />

moment, until <strong>the</strong> indignation be overpast. For, behold, <strong>the</strong> Lord cometh out of His place to<br />

punish <strong>the</strong> inhabitants of <strong>the</strong> earth for <strong>the</strong>ir iniquity." Isaiah 26:20, 21. Glorious will be <strong>the</strong><br />

deliverance of those who have patiently waited for His coming and whose names are written<br />

in <strong>the</strong> book of life.<br />

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