JANUARY 31, 1 Peter 1:13 

In the final lap of his practice run, Kenny pushed himself with all his might. If I can run this fast tomorrow, I will get the gold medal for sure, he thought. As he ran through the imaginary finish line, he slowed down and grasped his side to relieve the cramp.

“Hi, speedy,” a voice called from beside the track. “Dad!” Kenny puffed, jogging off the track.“You have been here long?”“Not long,”answered Dad. “I came to get you for dinner.” “Not yet! I need to run just a little longer, okay?” begged Kenny.

“Kenny,” said Dad, “we have already allowed you to miss dinner with us twice this week. Nourishment is just as necessary as running practice. And, it is not just dinner that I am concerned about. I am also concerned that your running has kept you away from too many other important activities. I am wondering if we have made a mistake in letting you join the track team. Along with missing dinner with the family, you have missed family devotions, and you have not had time for your regular church activities either. There is a youth service tonight, right?”

“Yeah,” said Kenny, “but the track meet is tomorrow, and I just have to beat Tony. I can’t beat him unless I put a lot of effort into it.” “I know, but are you aware that you have another opponent?” Dad asked. “One who is trying to beat you just as hard as Tony is? You need to put more effort into defeating him.”

“Who?” asked Kenny, glancing around the track.

“He is not on the field,” Dad said. “He is not even interested in your track record. He is interested in your heart, your soul, and your mind.” Kenny looked down. He knew now who Dad meant. “Satan doesn’t care if you win or lose this meet,” said Dad, “but he cares a great deal about having you neglect fellowship with God and with His people. You can’t beat Tony without strengthening your body. How do you think you can beat the devil without strengthening your heart, mind, and soul?”

“I guess I can’t,” admitted Kenny.

Thought: Is there something in your life that takes you away from time spent with God?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I pray that activities and studies in my life would not take priority over my Quiet Time with You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.