What do we really need?

"And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19

Running is pretty simple right? For many of today's runners though, it can get a little complicated. A GPS watch, smartphone, smartphone holder, Bluetooth headphones, a heart monitor and a GoPro are just a few of the things we might think we need before heading out the door. But, in all honesty, running requires nothing more than a pair of shoes and a desire to hit the road.

In Philippians 4:12, Paul wrote these words, "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." He was a man who truly knew what it was like to be wealthy and what it was like to be poor but, when he found Jesus was all he had, he knew it was all he needed. Quite simply, that knowledge is where true happiness lies. And, praise God, unlike the stock market, our bank account or things that will rust and rot, that contentment will never change and can never be taken away.

God knows what we need and it certainly isn't the newest gadget. In fact, the bible tells us that the same God who took care of Paul will supply all our needs from his glorious riches. So if we have Christ, what more do we really need to be content?

Heavenly Father, thank you for the promise that you will supply all of our needs from your glorious riches. Open our eyes and hearts to discern between our needs and our wants Lord and to remember that true happiness doesn't come from the things we have but rather from the Maker of all things. May we be content in all circumstances simply being in your presence. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

All I need - Hezekiah Walker

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Egucrj1kWPE

Against the grain

"But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin." 1 John 1:7

It's kind of an unwritten rule that a person is to walk on the right side of the road. It's something most of us were taught even before the first grade. An explanation from Travel Etiquette explains it this way: When everyone walks on the right side, there is no blockage, everyone can keep moving and you don’t annoy people by walking in their way. I guess runners are just rule breakers then as we know the safest spot to be is on the left opposite traffic, opposite the majority and against the grain so to speak. If you think about it we, as Christians, should be walking that way too-in the opposite flow of the majority and the world.

1 John 15:18-20 tells us what to expect as Christians by walking this way though, "If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you... If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also...". As Jesus clearly said, one thing is certain-when we choose to walk with Him, we will cause blockages, we will get in people's way and we will most definitely annoy them. But the question is, are you willing then to walk in the light despite all that? 

It would certainly be easier to follow the flow and walk in the ways of the world wouldn't it? But, as followers of Jesus, we are set apart and called to "walk in the light, as he is in the light." that we might influence others to do the same. I pray that you let nothing stop you from going against the grain. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that tells us what to expect as believers and followers of you. May we be willing to walk against the world no matter the ridicule or hate we might face. Help us to be strong and walk tall that we might bring others to you. Give us courage to never stray from the path you are leading us. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Step by step - Rich Mullins

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y-b7TQMoZsM

Rejoice!

"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Across the country this week, I'm sure could be heard complaints about the excessive heat most of us are experiencing. I'm afraid I was one of them. Yesterday,as the mercury climbed, the humidity rose and my pace slowed, I began complaining, "It's too hot! I can't do this. Why am I out here? Another hill?!!" And suddenly, I realized that I was out there because I was healthy enough to do so. I was out there because God had called me to carry the message of Salvation to others and, for that, I had to be conditioned. And, I was out there, for a brief time away from the worries of the world and the demands of life, to spend some quiet time with my Savior.

Immediately I felt better. Not just better, but great! It hadn't cooled down any but I was refreshed. And as a smile came across my face, I remembered these commands, "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." Yes, it was hot, but I would rejoice. I would pray and I would sing songs of praise. And I would give thanks in this circumstance and in all circumstances for a Savior such as mine... one worthy of all the praise all the time.

Maybe you too are experiencing things in your life no one would fault you for complaining about. But by choosing to rejoice, pray and give thanks during those times, you can change your attitude. You may not change the situation, but you will find yourself refreshed and joyful in all circumstances.

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would send your Holy Spirit to be our faithful companion, with us in every circumstance, guiding our paths and reminding us of all the things we have to be thankful for. Thank you Jesus for the ability to put one foot in front of the other to share your love with others no matter the circumstances. May we remember to rejoice, pray and give thanks at all times. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Again I say rejoice - Israel Houghton

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kt0ZKLMWoXM

 

Proper form

"Now when Daniel knew that the document was signed, he entered his house (now in his roof chamber he had windows open toward Jerusalem); and he continued kneeling on his knees three times a day, praying and giving thanks before his God, as he had been doing previously." Daniel 6:10

When it comes to running, proper form and posture is important. Good posture places you in an alignment where stress is properly distributed to the intended muscles and ligaments allowing them to work more efficiently allowing you to run faster. A good form will not only decrease your risk of joint discomfort and injury but, according to the Kansas Chiropractic Foundation, " When your muscles, joints and ligaments are working as intended, your vital organs are able to remain in proper position and the nervous system is able to function normally," Wow, your mother was right when she told you not to slouch!

The book of Daniel tells the story of how important posture can be for your spiritual life as well. When King Darius issued a decree that "anyone who prays to any god or human being during the next 30 days" (v.7) except to him, would be thrown into the lion's den , Daniel assumed the correct posture... he got down on his knees. In fact, the bible tells us that "he continued kneeling on his knees three times a day, praying and giving thanks to God". Because of his constant and good form, Daniel was not only lifted out of the lions den, but "no wound was found on him because he had trusted in his God." (v.23)

Maybe it's time for a form check today? While you're working to perfect and maintain your running form, don't forget the best posture for your life is always on your knees. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for being such a faithful God to Daniel and giving us an example of what faith, prayer and commitment to you can bring to our lives. May we all strive to be a faithful servant to you, an unwilling to sacrifice prayer and praise to you no matter the consequence. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

On my knees - Jaci Velasquez

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJwDxWddgSk

http://www.livestrong.com/article/78788-posture-important/

Train a child

"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6

On July 12, River Nuzzo, 15, and his stepfather, Dean McGovern, served as the 4 hour pacers at the Missoula Marathon. If running 26.2 miles in four hours or less wasn't hard enough, consider it was also River's first marathon. When he approached his stepfather, an experienced ultramarathoner, with the question of whether he thought he could complete a marathon, Dean responded, "Of course you can run a marathon! I would love to help you train for one.” Dean, already registered as a pacer, asked his stepson to be his pacing partner. He knew that if River tried to run this distance at his normal 7:00 per mile pace, he wouldn't last. But, if he could slow him down to the 9:00 pace required to finish in 4 hours, he would have a better chance of finishing. And finish they did, in 3:59:07.

I love this story. Dean McGovern knows running. And, as such, he passed that same love on to his stepson. He also knew how to train him and get him to the finish line because he, himself, had done so on many occasions. The bible tells us that we are to "train up a child in the way he should go". To be a trainer, though, requires that we know the subject we are teaching. And is there any greater subject than Jesus Christ?

Are you training your children or stepchildren in the way they should go? Maybe you don't feel qualified to do so? Or don't feel you know enough about the Subject to teach others? Then there's great news! Everything you need to know can be found in the Bible, the ultimate training manual, 

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us your Word to not only keep us on track, but to allow us to teach our children your words and to train them in the way they should go. Help us to diligently train ourselves that we might have the knowledge to train others, especially the children you have entrusted to us. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Child of God - Kathryn Scott

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0NwaJ54atw

http://www.runnersworld.com/general-interest/in-teens-debut-father-and-stepson-are-perfect-marathon-pacers

 

Streets of gold

"And the twelve gates were twelve pearls, each of the gates made of a single pearl, and the street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass." Revelation 21:21

Grant Brown runs during his school's annual Jogathon when he was six years old.

On Saturday, July 25th, runners across the nation will join to honor Grant Brown in a virtual race called the Running on the Streets of Gold 5K. In 2013, at the tender age of six, Grant died in a swimming accident. His father, Jeff Brown, said "Grant loved to run. I think about him every day.” This will be the second year for the race put on by the family's church. Brown said, “The important thing about the 5K is it puts money into a scholarship fund that helps promote the values my wife and I were teaching Grant.” The New Covenant School, where Grant attended kindergarten, has set up a scholarship in his name and the money raised in the race will help future students.

Most of us can't imagine losing a child. And as a mother, I can think of nothing in this world that could cause more pain. But Romans 8:28 gives us this promise, "God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them." Everything meaning, as Merriam Webster defines it, every thing there is and all that exists. For those who love Him, that includes tragedies such as this. In fact, God never promised us a life free from troubles but He did promise to be with us through them. And, with that knowledge, no matter what we are facing or have faced, we can have peace knowing God will bring something good out of every situation.

So, on Saturday morning, Jeff Brown will run 3.1 miles in Arlington while others around the country will do the same. Brown said, "My resounding message for the 5K is it’s about helping others. That’s what we were teaching Grant—to help other people.” Helping others? I can think of no better way to honor the memory of Grant Brown or to demonstrate that God can truly cause "everything to work together for the good of those who love God..." Won't you join me for a run? 

http://www.streetsofgold5k.com/

Heavenly Father, thank you for taking such a tragic event and using it for good. I pray that you fill the Brown family with peace as they honor the death of their son knowing that they will be reunited one day. May this story serve to remind us that you can cause everything-the good, bad and even downright ugly, to work together for good. May we never lose hope in the midst of darkness as we await our turn to run on the streets of gold. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Something Beautiful - Steven Curtis Chapman

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fv6foJHaxLg

http://www.runnersworld.com/races-places/virtual-5k-honors-boy-who-loved-to-run

Core strength

"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen." 2 Peter 3:18

A dear friend recently shared (and captured a photo) the story of a hula hooping runner that finished the Aspen Marathon last weekend. Believe it or not, she ran the whole thing while twirling the hoop around her waist. She said she was raising awareness that core strength was very important. You could say that she went through circles then to prove her point. Seriously though, strength and core exercises will actually improve your running and help keep you free from injury. Although they can be difficult, they don't require a lot of time and can be done anywhere.

Physically speaking, a strong core makes for a strong runner. The same is true of our spiritual health. A strong core of beliefs makes for a strong Christian... one able to go the distance required to do the job God has assigned each of us. Do you know what you believe and why? Are you firm in those beliefs and growing daily in the knowledge? Spending time in the Word each day is the best way to strengthen your spiritual core. And the good news? It doesn't require a lot of time and you can do it anywhere. The key is consistency. Make time every day to strengthen and "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."

I've heard it said that you're only as strong as your weakest link. Don't let your relationship with Christ be that weakness. Train often in the Word and you will soon have a rock-hard core belief system.

Heavenly Father, Help us to recognize the importance of spending time with you daily and to set aside the time to do it. May we, as Christian athletes, be constantly pursuing a stronger body, faith and spirit that we might serve you better and lead others to you by our love and knowledge of you. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Give in - Lecrae

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_urURyaQOvs

Let's plant a field

"What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe—as the Lord has assigned to each his task. I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor. For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building." 1 Corinthians 3:5-9

As I ran by a field of wildflowers yesterday morning, I couldn't help but marvel at the process that created it. No doubt a seed had been dropped by a bird or other animal or maybe even planted by someone long since passed. With years of sunlight and rain, that seed had blossomed, spread and grown into the beautiful scene I was looking at. Not one step in the process was more important than the other. They were all necessary in their proper times and chain of events.

Bringing others to Christ is much the same. One person plants the seed and another comes along to water it, each having the one purpose God gave them. Then, like the sun He provides the wildflowers, God makes things and people grow. We are merely one step of the process, none more important than the other, and co-workers in God's service and in his field. How delightful it is to know that we are part of God's plan in bringing others to Christ!

There are times we might wonder if what we are doing matters. This I know all too well. It's then that we do the job called us to and trust in Him to do the rest. If you are a seed planter, do it without the worry of whether it will be watered. If you are the one to water the seed, do it without the worry of whether it will grow. Do your assigned task and leave the rest to God "who makes things grow."

Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing us to share in creating a beautiful field of believers. Help us to do whatever task you have assigned us knowing that we are co-workers in your service. Remind us that each of us has a specific task to do that we might not be overwhelmed thinking we must do it all. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

What this world needs - Casting Crowns

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PAzYDDSQdI

Cry out to Jesus

"The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." Psalm 18:2

Although the clouds looked rather menacing, I decided to go ahead with my morning run. I had already waited an hour for the thunder and lightning to pass and was quite anxious to work up a sweat. Less than halfway into the run and many miles from home, I saw it. It was back. The first bolt of lightning lit up the dreary sky as it arced its way into the air causing my heart to race and panic to set in. As the rain then followed, I headed back as quickly as my short little legs would carry me. Oh Lord, I prayed, help me. Save me from the storm.

Have you ever prayed that prayer? In Psalm 109:26, David cried out, "Help me, O LORD my God! Save me because of your unfailing love." In the midst of the storm he was facing, he knew two things for certain - God was real and God was faithful to save him. Because of this great knowledge David could, with confidence, proclaim that the Lord was his rock, his fortress, his deliverer and the One in whom he could take refuge. And as I arrived safely back to shelter I, like David, was thankful that the Lord would, by his unfailing love, choose to be my personal refuge.

Do you have that same confidence today? When the rains fall and things come crashing down around you, do you take refuge in the One who loves you? Simply cry out to Him. He is listening.

Heavenly Father, thank you for being our shelter in the midst of the storm. Thank you that, by your unfailing love, you are always there to be our refuge when life gets so hard that we don't feel we can carry on. Help us to know, with confidence, that you will be our rock, our deliverer and the salvation we are so desperately searching for in a world full of pain. Thank you, Lord, that we can cry out to You knowing you will hear our prayers. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Cry out to Jesus - Third Day

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmVxRl5bc4Y

Let no one separate

"Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate." Mark 10:9

Of the many things that keep a marriage together, you might not think that running would be one of them. But for DeEtte, 80, and Robert Andersen, 81, of Minnesota, doing new things, they say, is the secret to a successful marriage. They have been married for 58 years and have run more than 50 marathons together since taking up the sport in their 50's. They said that they fell in love with one another decades before they fell in love with running, but through it, discovered that the best gifts weren't jewelry or clothes but new experiences they could share.

In a world where marriage seems almost doomed to fail, Ephesians 4:2-3 gives us the true secret of keeping it together by advising us to "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Being humble, gentle and patient and putting God first in our marriages is the real key to a lasting union. It's only then that we will discover that the best thing we can give ourselves and our spouses doesn't come from a store. It is the gift of accepting, loving and forgiving them as God does us that will keep our marriages running strong.

Marriage changes as we grow older, that is certain. But by taking care of each other throughout the course of it, it can change for the better, to ensure that we reach the finish line together. Robert went on to say, "At this point we are taking care of each other, It’s just a journey. It’s just a wonderful journey." Oh praise God for a partner to share it with. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the giving us companions to share this wonderful journey of life. May we always look to you to be the foundation of our marriages and the thing that binds us together for the ups and downs, and changes and trials that will inevitably come throughout the course of a marriage. May you strengthen our resolve that what you have joined together, we will let  no one separate. Give us humility, gentleness and patience to bear with one another in love even when it's hard. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

I will be here - Steven Curtis Chapman

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ed6eAXcr-K8

http://www.runnersworld.com/runners-stories/senior-olympians-love-running-almost-as-much-as-each-other

Be glorified

Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." 1 Corinthians 15:58

On Sunday, July 12, Scott Jurek broke the Appalachian Trail Thru-Hike Record completing the 2,189 mile journey in 46 days, 8 hours and 7 minutes. He started the attempt at the trail’s southern terminus, Springer Mountain in Georgia, on May 27 at 5:56 a.m.and averaged nearly 50 miles a day, crossing 14 states, and traversing 515,000 feet of elevation change to finally end at Maine's highest hill. It is said that the ups and downs on the trail equal climbing Mt. Everest 18 times. Wow, he is certainly gifted with an ability to run.

Speaking of gifts, 1 Peter 4:10 tells us that, "God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another." While we may not be able to break records or climb tall mountains, we can all serve one another. Maybe you have the gift of encouraging? Then do it to the best of your ability. Maybe it's serving in the church, teaching vacation bible school or being a prayer warrior? Then do it to the best of your ability knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 

Even if you manage to reach the top of Mount Everest or cross the Appalachian Trail one day, it will be pointless unless it's done for the Lord. All our achievements, big and small, matter not if not done for Him. May we work to never labor in vain. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for being such an awesome God that we would long to serve you with our abilities and the gifts that you have so richly blessed us with. Help us to remember that they are all equally important, whether we are breaking records or teaching Sunday School, when they are done to the best of our abilities and to bring you glory. May you be glorified in us, in works great and small, knowing you are the source of our strength. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Be glorified in me - Chris Tomlin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QE2EpmP5Oqo

Fix my eyes

"We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." 2 Corinthians 10:5

A few weeks ago, I ran into an old friend I hadn't seen in quite a while. "Wow", I said to her, "you sure have lost a lot of weight. How did you do it?" She shared how running and clean eating had helped her shed the unwanted pounds but admitted that she had recently gained some back and was struggling daily with bad choices. Most of us can relate to this in our battle to stay fit and healthy and know that one bad decision can lead us off course. The same is true in our spiritual lives. James 1:14-15 says, "Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death."

It starts with temptation and, if we aren't careful, ends in us giving in to the temptation. For some it may be food and for others it might be lustful thoughts or bad habits. Whatever it is, it starts the same... with a thought. The bible tells us to "take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." By doing this, we break the chain of events. Temptation can't "entice us and drag us away" if we don't let the thought of it "give birth to sinful actions."

When those tempting thoughts invade our minds,  Philippians 4:8 tells us exactly what to do, to fix our, "thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise." In other words, when temptation comes, fix your eyes on God.

Heavenly Father, thank you for helping us to think of those things that are pure and lovely when our thoughts are not . When temptation comes our way, may we immediately take those thoughts captive before they can give way to action. Guard our hearts and our minds Lord that we might keep our eyes fixed on You knowing that praise worthy thoughts lead to praise worthy actions. May we then praise you in all we say and do. We ask these things in your precious name, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Fix my Eyes - for King and country
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NM-Bf9gE0gw

Just slow down

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9

Wow! Summer seemed to have hit us overnight didn't it? Since it takes about two weeks to acclimate to the heat, most of us are feeling the burn. Rather than giving up training all together,  just slow your pace and enjoy one of the benefits of the added physical stress heat and/or humidity puts on the body. Running in these conditions can easily add 20 beats or more to a runners average heart rate and our bodies can become conditioned to the heart rate change regardless of our reduced pace. Which means, when cooler temperatures come, we will be reaping the benefits! You will probably feel lighter and might even be a bit faster than before. 

Susanna Wesley, also known as the Mother of Methodism, was the mother of John and Charles Wesley and was said to have been relentless in her efforts to raise her family "right" in the midst many trials. One day her husband remarked, "I marvel at your patience! You have told that child the same thing twenty times!" She responded by saying, 'Had I spoken the matter only nineteen times, I should have lost all my labor." With the utmost patience, she refused to give up, knowing that her discipline would have it's reward. And did it ever. Her sons went on to become leaders of the Methodist movement, renowned ministers and Charles wrote over 6,000 hymns that are still ministering to people today.

So, just slow down and be patient. But most of all, don't give up. No matter what you're going through, in the proper time we will reap a harvest of blessings if we do not give up.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the examples of your faithful followers that have reaped a harvest of blessings by not giving up. Give us the strength and patience to keep going even when we don't see results. May we not become weary in doing good to all those we meet and especially to our family. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Don't give up - K Anthony

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3V3kqppIY8

http://www.runnersworld.com/for-beginners-only/what-pace-should-i-run-in-the-heat?nopaging=1

A lifetime endeavor

"No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us." Philippians 3:13-14

It was announced last week that legendary American runners Joan Benoit Samuelson and Deena Kastor will compete in the 38th running of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon in October. Both athletes will be returning to Chicago to commemorate the anniversaries of their victories - Benoit Samuelson broke the record in 1985 and it stood until 2003 when it was broken by Kastor. “My goal has always been to run as fast as I can for as long as I can,” said Benoit Samuelson. “I continue to challenge myself with new goals and look within myself for the story I want to tell at the race."

What a testimony to what a lifetime of running can do. The race director said, "These two athletes have inspired, and continue to inspire, generations of runners." Just like these runners who, after winning once didn't stop, we are to make a lifetime of serving Christ, focused on this one thing: forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead. We must never rest on our past or current accomplishments but continually press on to reach the end of the race to receive a prize greater than any worldly competition could ever offer.... the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.

By doing so, not only will we receive an eternal prize, but we may inspire generations of people to do the same. May it be said of us that we let nothing and noone stand in our way of the goal. No dear brothers and sisters, we have not achieved it. But we can if we stay focused.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the examples of those pioneers who have gone before us showing us that it is not only possible to serve you with all we have, it is the most fulfilling thing we could ever do. Help us to stay focused on the prize at all times, looking forward to what lies ahead and always pressing on until we reach the end of the race and spend eternity with You. What a prize that will be! It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Press on - Building 429

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9pv5wVS7yzk

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/running-legends-joan-benoit-samuelson-140000011.html;_ylt=AwrBT83BZ6RVMjAAnztXNyoA;_ylu=X3oDMTEzOGFmdWM2BGNvbG8DYmYxBHBvcwMxBHZ0aWQDVklQNjE3XzEEc2VjA3Nj

Psycho Psummer 2015 - Overcomer

"Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Saturday, July 11 was the annual summer trail run, appropriately named Psycho Psummer, hosted by the Trail Nerds of Kansas City. The name itself implies that if a person is "playing with a full deck" this would not be the race for them. Since this was to be my fifth time attending the event, you could guess that I am a few cards short of a full house. But isn't that what makes us runners different? And speaking of different, this was to be no ordinary Psycho Psummer trail run. With more than a weeks worth of rain and widespread flooding, the trail had become a slippery slope of mud and clay more than a foot deep in places. Combined with the mountainous terrain, ruts, rocks and water crossings, this single track trail run became more like a tough mudder on steroids.

In fact, it became so tough so quickly into the race that many of us questioned whether we would be able to finish before the first three miles were completed! I had signed up for the 50k which required completing three loops of this now Super Psycho trail. By the end of the first loop, which took over three hours (way more than last year), I knew there was absolutely no way to make the cutoff to complete the 31 miles. I could quit, and believe me I wanted to, or drop down to the 20 mile distance which would require completing a second loop of this trail that had just spanked me... hard. So, along with the majority of the "ultra" runners, I swallowed my pride, officially dropped down and went back for round two of the beating. Praise God I emerged another four hours later... muddy, tired, alive and completely thankful for friends with a finish time of 7 hours and 55 minutes that I will celebrate.

I once heard it said that the greatest friendships are forged by adversity. Dictionary.com defines adversity as a condition marked by distress. Wow, did that ever describe this race! Yet, everywhere I looked, there was kindness, encouragement and friendship. From the volunteers who offered uplifting words, hydration and food (even cleaning the mud off our water bottles to do so) to the man who graciously washed off the shoes of the runners (knowing that they would be covered with mud again within a few feet), I was reminded that no one can make it through a race, or life, alone, Ecclesiastes 4:12 tells us that, "A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken."

As I passed through the first loop, alone for the most part, I felt defeated. I was tired and, although I knew God was all I needed, I couldn't help but pray for a "friend" for support. On the second loop, many runners passed by offering encouraging words as I returned, what I hoped to be, the same. Even so, by the last four miles, I felt overcome... until a "friend" came my way. Without many words, we seemed to know that we could complete the race if we helped one another.  And when the mud became too deep and too much of a vacuum (holding my legs down) to climb, he was there with a hand to help me up and over a steep ridge. And when I fell, that same hand was there to lift me up once again.

At the finish line, drained, sore and ever grateful, I sat back and listened as the runners shared similar stories of how a "friend" helped them to finish. We all agreed that this was a trail run that would never be forgotten. But I do think it will be as much for the friendships formed as much as for the terrain that forged them. Praise God for friends and psycho trails. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for being so gracious to give us friends to help us in our times of need. May we be willing to always put aside our goals and ambitions to "encourage one another and to build another up". May we strive to be remembered by the actions we did during our time on the trail rather than the time we completed it in. Help us to always put others first that they might see You in us. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Mandisa - Overcomer

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8VoUYtx0kw

After the race. This was after washing off too!!

Even after being rinsed, there was no hope for the shoes or socks. 

A runner with a camera captured the clay/mud mixture. And this wasn't the deepest or the worst of it. What a blessed day for running!!

Thankful and humbled to have finished. 

Before the race

Seek Truth

"Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true." Acts 17:11

In May, Superhero Events announced the creation of the USA Half Marathon, a qualifiers-only half marathon on November 21 in San Diego. But not everyone has been thrilled by the news. Organizers of the San Diego Half Marathon, held in mid March, feel the USA Half Marathon course is too similar to theirs. Interestingly enough, eight miles of the USA course are a direct copy of the San Diego race but will be run in the opposite direction with the other three miles run on parallel roads. Seems everyone is always trying to copy a good thing doesn't it? 

The devil is no different. He's been attempting to be like God since Genesis 3 when he told Eve, "You surely will not die! For God knows that in the day you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." (v. 4-5).  And he is still doing it today as 2 Corinthians 11:4 warns us, "Satan disguises himself as an angel of light." He is the father of lies and wants nothing more than to lead God's people astray. Sadly, as he did with Eve, he will succeed in his mission unless we are careful to follow the example of the Bereans, "for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true."

Simply said, the only way to spot a liar is to know the truth. And the only way to spot a copy cat is to know the original.  In a world with so many "truths" being taught, may we examine the scriptures every day to see for ourselves what is true and to seek the Truth and the Original at all times.

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us your Word that we might study it, learn it and be able to distinguish the truth from lies. Your Word tells us that the devil is the father of all lies yet masquerades as an angel of light. May we always be examining the scriptures to discern the truth and be able to recognize an imposter and counterfeit teachings when we encounter them. Help us then to stand firm in our beliefs and teach others to do the same. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Truth - Toby Mac

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vE7tRCY3g_E

http://www.runnersworld.com/races/a-half-marathon-spat-in-san-diego

Today I choose

"But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?" Luke 12:20

A wise runner once said, "If you're waiting for perfect conditions, you'll never get anything done." With all the rain and the heat this summer, there were very days with perfect running weather. Do you know what happens when you run in the rain? You get wet. That's it. Sadly, many runners are missing the joy of it by choosing to wait though. Dr. Billy Graham was once asked this question pertaining to waiting for the right conditions to follow God, "My friend says he isn’t worried about going to heaven because just before he dies, he plans to ask God to forgive him for the way he’s been living, and God will do it — or so he claims. Is he right?"

To which Dr. Graham responded, "I’m always saddened whenever I hear of someone like this, because they’re putting themselves in extreme spiritual danger, and they don’t even realize it. After all, your friend has no way of knowing when or how he’ll die; he may not have any opportunity to turn to God. I’m reminded of Jesus’ parable about a rich man who decided one day to spend the rest of his life taking it easy, selfishly enjoying his riches. He had spent years gaining his wealth, but had never given any thought to his soul or his relationship to God. In other words, he was rich in things but poor in soul, and suddenly it was too late. “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you’." 

Perhaps you're waiting for the right conditions as well? Sadly for many, the perfect time will never come and they will spend an eternity apart from Christ. What are you waiting for? Regardless of the weather, today is the perfect day to make the decision to follow Jesus. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for promising us eternal life when we die if we will choose to follow you while we live. I pray that if there is someone waiting to make that decision that they would see that today is the perfect time and would say this prayer: Father, I confess that I am a sinner but I choose to follow you today. Please come into my heart and be my Savior. I confess and repent of my sins and choose to follow you all the days of my life. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Today I choose - Brian Doerksen

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANAOg1rnTAo

The Life Preserver

"That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe." 1 Timothy 4:10

Last Tuesday, during an early morning run along Lake Michigan, John Corba spotted a man struggling in the water nearly 30 yards from shore. "This guy was about to go under," said Corba, 43, who lived nearby. He and two other runners quickly jumped into action while a woman called 911. Their combined efforts worked to rescue the man from the water and get him to the hospital. Godfred Hansen-Nord, the first runner to jump in, said he called out to see if the man needed help but got no response. "At the time when I jumped in, his head was about to go underwater, he was done, basically." 

It's no coincidence that these runners were there. God is in the business of saving lives every day and using his believers to help when necessary. And I love that the Darby Bible Translation describes God in this scripture as the "preserver of all men". Yes, you could definitely say that He is our life preserver! When we are about to go under or are drowning from our sin, regret, financial difficulties, family problems, worries or worldly pressures, he is there to save us by throwing out a lifeline and saying, "Do not be afraid—I will save you. I have called you by name—you are mine. When you pass through deep waters, I will be with you; your troubles will not overwhelm you." (Isaiah 43:1-2). 

Do you believe that today? If you're about to go underwater, put your "hope in the living God", our Savior and Preserver for He has promised to be with us through it all. Simply grab the lifeline.

Heavenly Father, thank you for throwing us the lifeline when we are drowning in our worries and troubles. Thank you putting those believers in our path that help us to shore when we can barely keep our heads above water. And Lord, thank you for promising to save us, for calling us by name, for promising to be with us through deep waters and for keeping our troubles from overwhelming us. You are indeed our Life Preserver. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Thank you God for saving me - Chris Tomlin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pssz5HH7Cp8

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/ct-2-joggers-use-surfboard-to-rescue-man-in-th-001-photo.html

 

Pass the salt

"Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person." Colossians 4:5-6

Runners know how important salt is, especially on a hot day. "Sodium helps regulate the body's fluid levels," says Bob Seebohar, R.D., director of sports nutrition at the University of Florida. The loss of salt is also connected to other running problems, including cramping and hyponatremia, a rare and potentially fatal condition in which overhydration leads to low blood-sodium levels." Obviously too little salt can be bad but too much salt has been linked to high blood pressure making it important to use the right amount.

The same can be said about our words. The bible tells us to let our speech, "always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt", so that we will know how we should respond to each person. Too much salt and the message can be bitter, too little and the hearer goes away unsatisfied. The point is to be gracious, neither timid nor overbearing-not only in what we say but how we say it, seasoning our speech just right as to be perfectly palatable to the listener. 

By treating each person with respect and courtesy, our words can become "tasty", effective and leaving them wanting seconds. That's how we make the most of every opportunity, wouldn't you agree? Are your words full of grace and seasoned well?

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving the lost so much that you would give us instructions on how to reach them. Help us to find your perfect grace to season our words correctly so that we might respond to each person with "tasty" speech. Help us to be believers that make the most of every opportunity to share the Gospel. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Words - Hawk Nelson

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=anVweXDcxhA

http://www.runnersworld.com/nutrition-for-runners/pass-the-salt

Don't fall!

"So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!" 1 Corinthians 10:12

In the closest finish in the history of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Peachtree 10k Saturday, Scott Overall beat Ben Payne by 9/100ths of a second to win the men's open division. What makes the story more interesting is that Payne, confident that he had won the race, raised his index finger to signify his victory, oblivious that he was being passed. He said that he didn't see or hear Overall approaching as they neared the finish line. In addition to being embarrassed, his carelessness cost him a first place finish and $500 in prize money.

The bible has something to say about carelessness as well, "So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall!" Sin can sneak up on us at anytime, even when we are within seconds of the finish line. When it comes to sin and temptation though, 1 Corinthians 10:13 tells us, "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it." 

No matter where you think you are in your walk with God, be careful that you don't fall! We should never become so confident in our faith that we feel it could never happen to us. Temptation will come to all of us and we need to be ever watchful for it and ready to run! Look to God who will show you the way out. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that serves as a guide for our lives. May we follow your ways at all times that we might stand firm and run the race with perseverance, sidestepping the sin and temptation that will (not if) come our way. Help us Lord to keep our eyes on you at all times. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Run - Lecrae

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yJGDKM6XsfQ

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/07/05/peachtree-celebrate-too-early_n_7731108.html
http://www.ajc.com/news/sports/overall-wins-ajc-peachtree-road-race-by-9100th-of-/nmrdY/

Independence Day

"For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery." Galatians 5:1

With Independence Day just around the corner, you might be noticing many flags on display. Come the Fourth of July morning, many runners will be participating in 5ks and other runs wearing red, white and blue and maybe even carrying the American Flag. You could say that most Americans are very proud of it. And with good reason - 'Old Glory' represents the day our country's founders declared independence from Great Britain. Did you know, though, that each part of the flag stands for something? The 50 stars stand for the 50 states and the 13 stripes stand for the 13 British colonies which declared their independence on July 4, 1776. The colors also stand for something. The white vertical stripes signify purity and innocence while the red vertical stripes represent hardiness and valour. And the blue signifies vigilance, perseverance & justice. 

There is another flag to be flown with pride too... the Christian Flag. It represents the day we were granted freedom from the power of sin. The shade of red on the cross symbolizes the blood that Jesus shed on Calvary. The blue canton represents the waters of baptism as well as the faithfulness of Jesus and the white represents Jesus' purity. Regardless of their differences in appearance, these flags are both symbols of what we stand for, who we are and that we are connected to one another as Americans and Christians. 

John Adams, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, in a letter to his wife regarding this special day wrote, "It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forevermore.” May we, as Americans, join together this holiday to commemorate the day of deliverance by God Almighty. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for setting us free from the yoke of slavery and the bonds of tyranny. My solemn prayer is that this country would raise the white flag of surrender and celebrate our freedom every day with solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. May we once again be known as"one nation, under God" as we wave our white flags in total surrender to Him. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

White Flag - Chris Tomlin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1jgD69WzMY

Washed by the Water

"And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God." 1 Corinthians 6:11

When the sound of a heavy downpour awakens you from a dead sleep, you can be assured that your morning run will be messy unless you opt for the treadmill. Since the dreaded "mill" is always my last option, I chose to run in the rain. Anticipating mud and puddles, I also chose to wear my dirtiest and most worn out shoes. After all, they were beyond the point of saving anyway right? With their countless stains, they weren't worth keeping. That is, until they were "washed by the water." To my surprise, the countless puddles I encountered and the intense rain actually made them cleaner! So clean, in fact, I've decided to keep them a little longer.

It's sad to think that many people can feel dirty and beyond the point of saving too.  As if one person's sins are greater than another. Unrighteous? That's all of us. There is not one of us that can make it through even one day without sinning... not one. The great news is that we don't have to stay dirty and in our sin. We can be made clean! 1 John 1;9 tells us, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." Did you get that part? If we confess, He will forgive us our sins. He did not say some of them or even most of them. He forgives all of them.

We are all sinners but there's not one of us that can't be washed, sanctified and justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Addiction? He can clean it. Guilt? He can clean it. Adultery? Cheating? Lying? He can clean that too. Will you allow Him to cleanse you today?

Heavenly Father, thank you for the forgiveness of sins. I pray that if there is someone in need of forgiveness and restoration would turn to you, Lord. And, if they are willing to repent would ask you to wash them, sanctify and justify them by the Spirit of our God. We ask this in your precious name, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Happy Day - Fee
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GirtIPZRZeg