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Run With Endurance: Navy SEAL Chadd Wright, Hebrews 12, and the Race Set Before Us
What does it mean to run the race set before you when life feels like a constant uphill battle? In a profound episode of March or Die, Jeremy Stalnecker sits down with Navy SEAL veteran and ultramarathon runner Chadd Wright to explore the spiritual depth of Hebrews 12—a passage that reminds us why we run, how we endure, and who walks with us in the struggle.
A Race Worth Running
Hebrews 12 opens with a compelling image: “Let us run with patience the race that is set before us.” For both Jeremy and Chadd, this race is more than physical—it’s a metaphor for life, calling, and faith. Chadd reflects candidly that before he came to faith in Christ, he had no real cause. Everything he pursued—status, special operations, success—left him empty. It was the gift of salvation that gave his life meaning, identity, and a race worth running.
“There was no cause before I received the gift of salvation… none of it ever lasted. None of it was truly fulfilling.” — Chadd Wright
Why Faith Is the Ultimate Why
Chadd’s ultrarunning isn’t about medals or platforms. It’s the vessel through which he demonstrates the grit, purpose, and faithfulness that fuels him. It’s how he becomes, in his words, “an ambassador for Christ in my life.”
That’s the race Hebrews 12 speaks of: not a sprint of comfort, but a marathon of endurance. It’s powered by a deep “why,” and for Chadd, that “why” is the gospel.
“Without faith in Christ, what matters? How could there be any option other than nihilism?” — Chadd Wright
Suffering With Purpose
Hebrews 12 reminds us that Jesus, “for the joy set before Him, endured the cross.” That’s endurance with vision. Chadd shares from his own painful journey—his wife’s battle with addiction, his own health crises, and the mental toll of life after service. But the suffering didn’t break him—it refined him.
“After salvation, the suffering doesn’t stop—but now, for the first time, the suffering has purpose.” — Chadd Wright
Building Endurance: Patience, Presence, and Discipline
A core takeaway from this episode is that endurance isn’t accidental—it’s built. Chadd outlines three disciplines that not only helped him win ultramarathons but also grounded him in spiritual growth:
- Patience – The ability to delay gratification and embrace the long journey.
- Presence – Staying in the moment rather than being overwhelmed by the big picture.
- Deliberate Living – Living with structure, intention, and spiritual discipline.
These practices echo James 1:2-4 and reinforce the Hebrews 12 command to “run with patience.”
“You don’t become patient without reps. There’s no shortcut. You have to intentionally put yourself in hard things.” — Chadd Wright
You Are Not Alone: The Cloud of Witnesses
Hebrews 12 opens by reminding us that we’re “surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses.” These are the saints, mentors, and overcomers who have gone before us. Jeremy and Chadd both speak on the importance of finding mentors, sharing your story, and being part of a faith-driven community.
Chadd’s advice to those feeling alone in their struggle? Show up. Offer what you have. Let God work through your presence and obedience—even if it’s just your willingness to run one more lap.
“The cloud of witnesses isn’t just Bible characters. It’s the people God places in your life—and the stories you haven’t shared yet.” — Jeremy Stalnecker
Final Thoughts: The Race Is Worth It
This episode is a rallying cry for those ready to stop sitting and start marching. Your identity isn’t found in your job, your trauma, or your accolades. It’s found in Christ. And through Him, the race you’re running—no matter how difficult—is filled with hope, purpose, and transformation.
Watch the full episode of March or Die on YouTube
Let Hebrews 12 be your roadmap. And as Chadd Wright’s life proves, the hard path is the holy one.
