The Apostle Paul often referred to life as a race and the key to running was keeping your eyes fixed on Jesus. A great example of what can happen when we take our eyes off of Jesus can be found in the book of Matthew.
Matthew tell us, after Jesus spoke to a large crowd he made the disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after He had dismissed the crowds, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but the boat by this time was a long way from the land, beaten by the waves, for the wind was against them. And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea. But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, “It is a ghost!” and they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.”
Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him.
To give you an idea of how strong the wind was we are told, “When he saw the wind” Peter became afraid. Peter turned his focus to the wind and waves and took his eyes off of the one who created them.
I was in the same boat as Peter. I took my eyes off of the cross. I swam in my sin long enough and almost drowned. Fortunately, when I cried out,”Lord, save me” He immediately reached out His hand and pulled me out.
Life is a marathon. Over the last four years many have reached out there hand to me. Many have helped me keep my eyes fixed on the prize. It is hard to imagine where I was and where I am today. It truly has been an amazing race.

• amazing race