In life, each of us is given a unique path, often referred to as “our race.” This race symbolises our individual journey, calling, and purpose. Running this race well requires discernment, patience, and focus. However, it can be tempting to overextend ourselves or step into roles that may not align with our own calling, under the impression that we’re being helpful to others. But Scripture warns us to exercise caution so that our good deeds are not “evil spoken of” (Romans 14:16). Even good intentions, if misplaced, can lead to misunderstandings, distract us from our own journey, and ultimately, hinder both ourselves and others.
The Bible reminds us, “There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death” (Proverbs 14:12). This ancient wisdom teaches the importance of discerning our actions and motives. Intentions, while valuable, should not be our only metric; we need wisdom, awareness, and boundaries to ensure that we do not inadvertently lead others – or ourselves – astray. Below, let’s explore the importance of staying focused on our own race, while learning how to support others in a way that honours our own journey.
Staying Focused on Your Unique Race
Each of us has a unique calling. This path is as individual as our strengths, experiences, and passions, and it’s essential to remember that what might be “good” for someone else may not be beneficial for us. Overcommitting to someone else’s journey can lead us to lose sight of our own calling. Scripture calls us to “run with patience the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1), reminding us to focus on our own path rather than diverting from it. When we set appropriate boundaries, we can support others without detracting from our own growth and purpose.
Staying focused on your race doesn’t mean neglecting others; rather, it means recognising that we are most effective in supporting others when we’re secure in our own path. Picture an athlete who constantly turns back to help others or tries to run their race for them. The athlete becomes exhausted and may even lose their own race. Similarly, focusing on our path with intention allows us to make a greater impact without being derailed.
The Dangers of Comparison and Over-Involvement
In a world of constant connectivity, it’s easy to compare our journey to others’. Social media, for example, gives us front-row seats to others’ highlights, successes, and achievements. However, the Bible advises, “But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another” (Galatians 6:4). Constant comparison can make us feel pressured to do more or to become overly involved in others’ lives, leading us to lose sight of our own race.
When we’re constantly helping others run their race, we risk burnout and distraction, missing crucial steps in our own journey. What appears to be support can stem from a subconscious desire for approval or validation. If our energy, which could be used toward our own purpose, is drained elsewhere, our support may become ineffective. Helping others requires balance, so we don’t lose the capacity to progress in our own race.
Recognising When Support Becomes Enabling
While support is essential, there is a fine line between supporting and enabling others. Helping others too much can stifle their growth and lead to dependence. It’s like “iron sharpeneth iron” (Proverbs 27:17) – true help challenges and strengthens rather than doing everything for another. People need space to learn from their experiences and develop resilience.
By striking a balance in our support, we empower others to take ownership of their journeys. This approach not only helps them cultivate their strengths but also reinforces our role as allies in their development. It fosters an environment where individuals feel safe to make mistakes, learn from them, and ultimately thrive.
Balancing Empathy with Wisdom
Empathy is powerful, but wisdom is necessary to know how, when, and to what extent we should help others. Not every challenge requires our intervention, and sometimes the most loving action is to let others navigate their own challenges. “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God” (James 1:5) – we should encourage them to seek divine wisdom to discern the right way to go. That’s how we help!
When empathy leads us to compromise our values or resources, it can become harmful. Wisdom involves respecting boundaries and recognising that sometimes, the best support we can offer is to lead people in the way they should go and hold them to that direction. This respects each individual’s unique journey without compromising our own.
Avoiding the Trap of Misunderstanding and Criticism
Even with the best intentions, our actions can be misunderstood or criticised. When we involve ourselves in others’ journeys, we expose ourselves to the potential misinterpretation of our intentions. In trying to help, we may inadvertently foster resentment or dependency, which can lead to misunderstandings or damage to relationships. As Proverbs 4:7 reminds us, ‘Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.’ This highlights the importance of approaching our interactions with discernment to minimise the risk of misinterpretation.
We must respect each person’s autonomy by offering help when necessary, as encouraged in the Bible, without taking on the responsibility for their choices. As Romans 14:12 states, ‘So then each of us will give an account of ourselves to God,’ highlighting the importance of individual responsibility. The battle belongs to the Lord; we should remain at peace. By fostering an atmosphere of calm and understanding, we empower others to take ownership of their own journeys. This not only helps to prevent unnecessary misunderstandings but also nurtures a personal connection with the Holy Spirit, who is there to direct, guide, and lead them.
Running Your Race with Integrity and Purpose
Integrity is the compass guiding our race. By staying true to our calling, we gain the discernment and wisdom needed to approach each step with purpose. As Proverbs reminds us, ‘The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity’ (Proverbs 11:3). Are we helping others for the right reasons, or are we seeking validation or even misguiding ourselves? True integrity brings clarity to our motives, keeping us focused on the path ahead.
When we honour our purpose, we avoid the pitfalls of misplaced involvement. Running with integrity enables us to navigate our race effectively, remaining grounded in our values and steadfast in our faith.
Ensuring Your Good is Not Evil Spoken Of
Finally, it’s vital to guard our intentions so that our good is not ‘evil spoken of’ (Romans 14:16, KJV). The right action taken with the wrong approach can sometimes lead to unintended consequences. Acting in alignment with God’s values, respecting others, and upholding our integrity helps to minimise the risk of our actions being misunderstood or falling out of step with God’s will.
In Summary
Each of us has a unique race to run, and it’s essential to separate this individual journey from how we run alongside others. Supporting others along the way is part of our calling, but we must do so in a way that honours both God and our own purpose. When we keep our focus on the path set before us, we allow God to guide us with clarity and wisdom. By doing so, we not only fulfill our purpose but also inspire others to pursue their own.