I’ve learned much through running a marathon. One of the reasons why I wanted to run it was to learn about life. I’ve read people say that you learn about life as you are training for and running the marathon, and they were right. 
One lesson I learned is to keep going when I want to quit. Both times I ran the marathon, I hit the wall around mile 22 (out of 26.2). It hits people differently, but for me I started cramping everywhere. I couldn’t stretch it out because if I tried, the back of the part I was stretching would cramp up. All I could do was to stop, relax my body, wait till it passes, then start walking. And then I would attempt to run again. But sure enough, the body would cramp up again and I would start the process all over…. The last 4 miles are brutal! Although I can run 4 miles like it’s nothing in normal circumstances, the last 4 miles of the marathon is truly a fight of the will. 
I believe this is also the hardest part about being a Christian – finishing well. Or finishing. Period! The letters to the seven churches in the Book of Revelation keep mentioning the word, “victor,” as in a race. ” 25 But hold on to what you have until I come. 26 The one who is victorious and keeps My works to the end: I will give him authority over the nations—”
Don’t quit on Christ. Don’t quit on the church, His bride. Keep fighting even when you don’t think you can. It’s supposed to be hard. God will help you. 
PH