The runners high
"Some, however, made fun of them and said, “They have had too much wine.” Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: “Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. These people are not drunk, as you suppose. It’s only nine in the morning! " Acts 2:13-15
Ahhhh, the runner's high. Most runners have heard of it. Many have experienced it. And all runners love it. While some may not reach that epic euphoric state of the "runners high", most runners will feel the tranquil form of it-the calming and peaceful effects a run has on the body-the relaxed feeling that starts after about 20 minutes of running and may last an hour or longer after the run is over. Those venturing out to more endurance type races will usually reach that coveted euphoric state after a long and/or difficult run or race which typically results in making the person feel that they want to give everyone they see a hug, believe that world peace might actually be achieved on the race course and sometimes even cry at the sight of a cute puppy or a carefully worded, "I knew you could do it". While it can't be explained, modern science says it's caused by the relief of endorphins. Consider this: Endorphins are a group of neurotransmitters. These chemicals can change the behavior and emotions in the brain. About twenty different endorphins have so far been identified. These endorphins can be released to help the body deal with pain or stress. The endorphins work in a similar way to opiate drugs, including morphine. By stimulating the production of endorphins, you can experience the natural high. If you have been running or working out for some time, then it's normal to have a lot of positive thoughts in your mind. This is due to the increased endorphins in your brain. The natural high is also sometimes called the runner's high. The release of endorphins while exercising is one of the common reasons you will not feel any pain or aches until after you have finished. http://www.fitday.com/fitness-articles/fitness/exercises/the-benefits-of-running-experiencing-a-natural-high.html#b. To the person that didn't know any better, the euphoric runner might even act like they were "under the influence".
Now consider this: "On the day of Pentecost all the believers were meeting together in one place. Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability." Acts 2:1-4. I gotta tell you that if I had heard this, I would have thought they had all run farther than their minds could follow. Those around the believers even accused them of having too much to drink at 9 in the morning! Much like the endorphins, being filled with the Holy Spirit definitely changes a person (think uncontainable joy). Acts 13:52 says, "And the believers were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit." Endorphins bring about a feeling like joy, but the Holy Spirit brings true joy-the type of joy that is never dependent on circumstances or what distance we run only on our relationship with Christ.
If you're not experiencing that true joy, maybe you have drifted away from Christ? It's never too late to renew that relationship. Proverbs 8:17 says, ""I love all who love me. Those who search will surely find me." He's waiting...keep searching.
Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit. How awesome is the joy that the Spirit provides! It's only in You and through You that we can experience true peace, joy and happiness regardless of the circumstances and chaos in our lives. What a blessing it is to run to You everyday. You are so amazing and worthy of all of our praise. In Your precious name we pray Jesus, Amen.
Happy Running!!!
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