Don't blindly follow

"Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth." Ephesians 4:14

Pacers are those people in a race whose job it is to lead others across the finish line in the time they advertise they can. Whether that be to a 3 hour marathon finish or a 5 hour one, each pacer (before being considered) has to show that they can reach their time goal consistently and, therefore, lead others to do the same. However, even with that knowledge, blindly trusting someone just because they claim they can help you can be a huge mistake as several runners at the Santa Rosa Marathon discovered Sunday. Racers, who were running in the 3.03 pace group, were led off course after the pacer took a wrong turn and so logged an extra 0.9 mile... quite possibly affecting their chances of qualifying for the Boston Marathon.

While being led astray in a race can have disastrous consequences, they are nothing compared to what might happen by blindly following someone who claims to know the Bible but preaches or teaches doctrine opposite to what the Word says. It's no wonder then that in Ephesians 4, Paul urges us to be mature in our faith and knowledge so we "won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching" or "influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth."  So how do avoid that deception? By knowing the Truth and knowing it so  well,  better even than our favorite running route, that we will instantly recognize when somethings "just not right".

Watchman Nee said it this way, "Should the believer neglect the teaching of the Bible, failing to watch and pray even though trusting his pure motive to keep him from deception, he will be deceived." 

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us your Word that we might study it and learn it that we might not be led astray by false teachers or false doctrines. Help us to embrace your truth and then to stand firm in it when others would tell us to go another direction. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Don't be deceived - The Winans

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BysSBReen6c

An all-out-effort

"Someone asked him, “Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?” He said to them, “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to." Luke 13:23,24

Upon arriving at the Millwood Half Marathon Sunday, my friend and I wondered why the parking lot was so bare. With only a handful of cars, no race officials and no start line or runners warming up, we got a little worried until we were informed that the start line had been moved. There was another change too, this one most likely the reason for the small crowd-due to overbooking at the golf course where the race was to be run, the time limit to finish had to be drastically shortened and, therefore, would require an all-out-effort by many to complete. So when given the option of deferring their entry until next year, many runners wisely chose to sit this one out. 

Speaking of effort, the Bible tells us that entering through the "narrow door", or following Jesus, will require more work than most people are willing to put forth. And while no amount of labor on our part will save us since Salvation is by God's grace alone, it will take an all-out-effort to follow him amidst the pressures of this world and our sinful natures to do otherwise. So you see, just like an athlete straining toward the finish line after having pushed himself to the limit but still giving even more, our desire to know Jesus and pursue him should inspire us to put forth that same extraordinary effort , "because many I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to."

The great part is that, unlike in a race where doing our best may still leave us short of the finish line because of our physical limitations, there are no spiritual limitations in our pursuit of a relationship with Jesus! It is merely up to you and me to decide the amount of effort we are willing to give. How much is that for you?

Heavenly Father, thank you for laying down what is expected of us. Help us to realize that this race to follow you is not one to be taken lightly. It is an all-out-effort to the finish line giving all we have to know you and to serve you. May we strive to train daily in your Word that we might have the strength to not only get ourselves across the finish line but to lead others to do the same. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Reaching for you - Lincoln Brewster

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HbqohEWn4CI

There will be a day

"He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”" Revelation 21:4, 5

While talking with a long time friend after completing a hard and hilly run last weekend, my friend informed me that the event was her 59th half marathon and was done specifically on that day to celebrate her 59th birthday taking place the following morning. When she revealed that the course had really challenged her and that these races were getting more difficult, we discussed how her running (and mine) had changed throughout the years due to things like age, pain and injuries. Amidst our discussion, she looked at me intently and said, "You know there will be a day when I can no longer do this." To which I replied, "Yes, but today is not that day and for that we will be grateful." As she smiled, we both knew, as everyone eventually will, that there will indeed come a day when we will not be able to do the things we once enjoyed.

You know the Bible tells us of a day that's coming too-a day when there will be no more pain, crying or sadness, a day when every tear will be wiped from our eyes and death will be no more. And for anyone who is now experiencing physical suffering, sorrow, heartache or despair, this is a wonderful promise isn't it? You see, for all those that believe in Christ, there is an eternal place of rest waiting where the cares of this world, with it's difficulties and discomforts, will pass away and we will be made new. The promise is so real that God commanded John to write it down, "for these words are trustworthy and true."

When it comes to pain, C.S. Lewis wrote, "Hardships often prepare extraordinary people for an extraordinary destiny..." If that is true then may we patiently endure the afflictions, misfortunes and sufferings of this world knowing there will be a day and a destiny where they will be no longer be felt. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your many blessings. Help us to realize that many of those blessings come disguised in the form of trials, tribulation and pain but are being used to glorify your name in ways we could never dream of and never do in the absence of affliction. Help us to be strong, patient and faithful as we look to you and wait for the day when your promise of eternal rest will be fulfilled. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

There will be a day - Jeremy Camp

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPKyTY71iRM

Are you ready?

"At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish and five were wise. The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. The wise ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps." Matthew 25:1-4

With the rising threat of terrorism in the United States, the rules are very clear on what is required for a person to enter any military installation-including Ft. Leonard Wood in Missouri where my friends and I were headed early Saturday morning for a 5k race. Unfortunately for me, those soldiers guarding the entrance had not received the order to allow runners to enter for the race and so were adhering to their normal routine and policy-which was to deny entry to anyone without either a pass or two specific forms of identification. And guess what? I didn't have either. I had procrastinated on getting the pass and just assumed that what I had would get me in.  I wanted to scream, "Wait! I'm a Christian and an upstanding citizen!" But it would have done no good. I wanted to tell them how my Christian shirt I was wearing proved I was "okay" but that would have done no good either. Neither my friends nor my proclamation of faith could get me in that day. It was too late. 

You know my actions were pretty foolish but, thankfully, only resulted in some teasing from my running buddies and missing a race. But the Bible tells us that there is a consequence of immeasurable proportion for the actions of those who wait to do what they need to do-for those that are caught unprepared. In Matthew 25:1-13, Jesus tells the story of the ten bridesmaids who went out to meet the bridegroom not knowing when he would arrive.  The foolish ones failed to bring enough oil to keep their lamps lit and asked the wise bridesmaids, who had plenty, to borrow some. Denied their request for oil, the unprepared women left to buy some and missed the arrival of the bridegroom. The wise and ready virgins went in with him to the banquet and the door was shut... and it was shut for good. For the foolish and unprepared ladies, it was too late. 

Let me assure you of this. Jesus is coming back. And like the ten bridesmaids in the parable, you and I will not know when that time will be. What we do know for certain, though, is this... if we are not ready, if we have not accepted Jesus into our lives when that time comes, the door will shut and it will be too late. Your friends can't get you in. Your spouse can't get you in. And your membership in a church or a running ministry can't get you in. So let me ask you this... are you ready? 

Heavenly Father, I thank you for the life lessons that serve to remind us just how bad procrastination and looking to others to do what we should do ourselves can be. Lord, if there's anyone reading this that doesn't have a relationship with you, I pray that today is the day they will make the decision to accept you into their heart and pray this prayer: Lord I confess that I am a sinner in need of your salvation. I confess that you are the one true God and that Jesus Christ is your son sent to save me. I accept you into my heart today to be Lord over my life. Thank you for welcoming me into your family that on the day of your return I will be found ready and granted entry into your banquet. It's in your most precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Are you ready? - Becka Shae

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-mrJqhNR5c

A happy ending

"For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people's sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation." 2 Corinthians 5:19

One of BBC/Asia's headlines yesterday read, "Finding Gobi: Runner reunited with marathon companion dog" It was the story of how Australian-born Dion Leonard had come to love a little dog, later named Gobi, he met while running 155 miles across China. Somewhere along the mountain and desert areas he traversed, Gobi joined him and never left his side even when Leonard doubted the little dog could make it. Feeling instant love for his new four-legged friend, Dion traveled home in anticipation of returning for him after the arrangements were made, leaving Gobi with a buddy. But while preparing to legalize the dog's return to Scotland, Gobi vanished-he was lost. As the headlines revealed though, they were eventually reunited and all was well. 

Don't you love stories with happy endings? I know I do. And by far the greatest story ever told with a "happy ending" is the one of God's love for us. In fact, 2 Corinthians tells us that he loved us so much that, when we were lost, God came to reunite us to him, "reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people's sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation." Did you get that? We were lost sinners in need of salvation, separated by our transgressions and deserving of death. But Christ chose to bring us back to him and give us all a most happy ending... eternity spent forever reunited with him.

You know, no matter what you've done or how far you may have wandered away,  its never too late to have a happy ending. The "wonderful message of reconciliation" tells us so. Now isn't that news worthy of sharing?

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would find us where we are and reunite yourself to us. How amazing to know that our Creator loves us so.... thank you Father. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

How He loves us - Kim Walker Smith

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JoC1ec-lYps

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-37182207

Pass it on

"If I warn the wicked, saying, 'You are under the penalty of death,' but you fail to deliver the warning, they will die in their sins. And I will hold you responsible for their deaths." Ezekiel 3:18

My friend and I had the pleasure of running a half marathon Saturday night. Appropriately named "harder than hell", this race lived up to its description with its mile plus long hills and winding narrow terrain. Adding to the challenge of skillfully moving through the course with only a headlamp was the threat of traffic (it wasn't a closed course). With very little shoulder in which to avoid that danger, it was nice to hear the runners warning one another. I could hear it passing through the ranks, "Car!" getting louder as each runner shouted the warning to the one in front of them until the last runner was warned. And, by hearing, heeding and passing it on, every runner made it safely to the finish line. 

It's always nice to be warned of impending danger isn't it? But would you take the time to warn someone you knew wouldn't listen? That was just the situation the prophet Ezekiel faced. God had already told him that the people wouldn't listen but He wanted the people to know that they had been warned anyway. Ezekiel's job, like ours, wasn't to question but to obey. You see we are responsible to tell others about God's judgement and his message of salvation, even those we don't think will listen. And while we aren't responsible for the way a person will react to our words, we will be responsible for remaining silent... for not passing on the warning.  

So what will you do today? Will you warn others of the danger of not following Jesus Christ? Or will you simply remain silent and hope someone else does? The choice is yours. Won't you choose to pass it on?

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that is so clear to tell us that it is our responsibility as followers to issue the warning to nonbelievers that they might choose to follow you and be saved. Help us Lord to recognize that the danger is real-people are dying every day left wishing they would have been warned. May we choose to be bold and pass it on today. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Tell the world - Hillsong United

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8z2XLZjKYQ

Message of hope

"So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, " Ephesians 2:19

Every four years the Olympic games welcomes the best and most supremely trained athletes from all around the world to compete under their country's flag. But, thankfully, this year's games in Rio went a step further by allowing 10 refugees from war-torn countries, that had no flag to participate under, to come together and compete under the Olympic flag. When the IOC announced the plans back in March, President Thomas Bach said, "By welcoming the team of refugee olympic athletes to the Olympic Games Rio 2016, we want to send a message of hope for all refugees in our world. Having no national team to belong to, having no flag to march behind, having no national anthem to be played, these refugee athletes will be welcomed to the Olympic Games with the Olympic flag and with the Olympic Anthem.”

Considering UNICEF reported that an average of 24 people were forced to flee their homes every minute during 2015 (with half of them being children), sending a message of hope is indeed a great idea. And there is definitely hope because God's word tells us that when we choose to follow him, we "are no longer strangers and aliens," with no country or people to identify with, "but are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God". This means that no matter what country a person was born into or now lives, whether one at peace or at war, they can be welcomed as citizens of a Kingdom far greater than their own... one built on a Foundation that can never be demolished, overrun or destroyed and one they can never be forced out of.

Desmond Tutu once wrote, "Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness. Do your little bit of good where you are; it's those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world." May each one of us then do that little bit of good today by reminding others that, through Jesus Christ, there is hope in spite of the darkness around them. And may we then pray that this 'message of hope' will overwhelm the world!

Heavenly Father, thank you for being the light and refuge in a dark world where so many people are without an earthly home. Help us to have hearts to help others Lord, whether through action or prayer, that they might know that there is hope in You. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Hope changes everything - New Song

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jQiuZdOvbM

http://www.runnersworld.com/olympics/this-team-won-no-medals-but-it-captured-the-worlds-attention

Live for today

"O LORD, make me know my end and what is the measure of my days; let me know how fleeting I am!" Psalm 39:4

It was declared "an American podium sweep" in the women's 100-meter hurdles last Wednesday night when three American runners claimed the gold, silver and bronze medals with times of 12:48, 12.59 and 12.61. Reportedly, the race for third was so close that Kristi Castlin of the United States won it only by leaning in at the finish line to beat Cindy Olfil of Great Britain by a mere two hundredths of a second. Wow. Can you even comprehend how short of a time that is? And yet, if we could ask Olfil, she would probably tell us that those short two hundredths of a second were long enough to cost her plenty. 

Speaking of time and cost. What is time worth anyway? I mean what is it's value? Marc Levy once wrote that if you want to know the value of one minute, ask the person who missed the bus and if you want to know the value of a second, ask the person who just escaped death in a car accident. And I would say that if you want to know the value of a centisecond, ask an Olympian who went home without a medal. Perhaps that's why the psalmist cried out to the Lord pleading with him to make known the measure of his days. David wanted to know how fleeting his life actually was that he might make the most of the time he had... he wanted to know time's value. 

Truth be told, no matter how many days we live, life is short. Each second, each day, each month and each year are gifts that are undeserved and, therefore, of the highest worth. And since neither you nor I know when we will reach our "end", we should live as if each moment counts right? Because each moment really does. What will you do with your gift of time today?

Heavenly Father, thank you for each moment that you choose to give us. Help us to realize how fleeting life is that we might feel an urgency to do things that have an eternal value, things that will make the world a better place by us having lived in it. May we be so grateful for each day we have that we spend it praising the Giver of it. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Live for today - Natalie Grant
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fb8V2mX57Gc

"Those people"

"Whoever keeps company with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools suffers harm." Proverbs 13:20

When running with a friend last week who was training for her first half marathon, I listened while she revealed that she was having a hard time fitting her next long run of six miles into her schedule. As I knew she would be attending the free 5k Donut Run Saturday, I suggested that she just go to the race and run it twice. She immediately looked at me, laughed, and said, "Oh my goodness, I'm going to be one of 'those people' now." Pretty funny right? All kidding aside though, she was referring to those runners she had watched who love the sport so much that 3.1 miles just isn't enough so they, more times than not, repeat the experience an extra time or two. And she knows this why? Because she has been spending a lot of time with "those people." 

While consistently spending time with runners may have you signing up for races you thought you could never do and feeling the pain of those long runs, it's nothing compared to the hurt you could experience by spending time with "those people" who are ill-advised, reckless or misguided. You see the Bible tells us that, "Whoever keeps company with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools suffers harm." Simply said, our friends and associates, "those people" we spend the most time with, have the power to change us-for the better or for the worse. 

Knowing that then, wouldn't we be wise to choose our friends carefully? Because, in the words of Dr. Steve Maraboli, "If you hang out with chickens, you're going to cluck and if you hang out with eagles, you're going to fly." 

Heavenly Father, help us to realize the importance of choosing our friends wisely knowing that we, most times, take on the characteristics, beliefs and habits of those we spend the most time with. Help us to realize that, no matter how wise or secure in our faith we feel we might be, a companion of fools will bring us harm.  It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen, 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Superfriend - Mary Mary

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBEYIiSfT2E

Great pics at Saturday's race with "those people." The free 5k Donut Run/Walk/Ride is held the third Saturday of every month presented by TEAM 413 and sponsored by Walker Real Estate in St. Robert, MO. 

Rise up

"Do not gloat over me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will rise. Though I sit in darkness, the LORD will be my light." Micah 7:8

Usain Bolt, known as the world's fastest man, became the first of his gender to bring home a gold medal in the 100-meter dash in three consecutive Olympics Sunday after blazing to the finish line in 9.81 seconds. But not only is he talented at running, he is also a savvy businessman who trademarked his name and signature "Lightning Bolt" pose. But did you know that in 2011, a one-strike-and-you're out false start disqualified him in the 100-meter finals at the IAAF World Championships? I'm sure this was hardly the only setback he ever encountered from his humble beginnings in Jamaica to his rise to fame though. 

The prophet Micah knew something about setbacks and rising above his circumstances too when he wrote, "Though I have fallen, I will rise. Though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light." He was telling his enemies and those around him to not delight in his misfortunes because he may have fallen but he would soon rise-he was down but certainly not out. And, although he was sitting in the dark now, God would be his light, of that he was absolutely certain.

After his 2011 disqualification, Bolt was quoted as saying: "Looking for tears? Not going to happen. I'm OK." In other words, he was telling the world and those who might be reveling in his setback that he was down but certainly not out. He had fallen but he would rise... and did he ever! As Christians, shouldn't that be our attitude too? Knowing that no matter our misfortune, trial or fall that the Lord will give us the strength to rise again? And that kind of confidence doesn't take talent, my friend, it takes faith. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for these amazing role models that you have given us and the younger generation to follow. May we be as bold in our faith as these Olympic athletes that refuse to give the glory to anyone or anything but you and may we emulate their unshakable will to rise each time they fall. May we be that determined. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Eye on it - Tobymac

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2pO16yMC19o

http://www.bbc.com/sport/athletics/14698558

The meaning

"The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, And he who is wise wins souls." Proverbs 11:30

Tuesdays Olympic headlines read, "Sportsmanship Wins Hearts After 5,000-Meter Mishap". The "mishap" they are referring to occurred when Nikki Hamblin of New Zealand, while running in front of Abbey D'Agostino of the United States, fell unexpectedly in the eighth lap. With no time to move to the outside, D'Agostino collided with her. But as Abbey got up to continue the race, she paused for a moment and turned back to help Nikki to her feet, "I am so grateful for Abbey doing that for me " Hamblin said, "That girl is the Olympic spirit right there...I’m so impressed and inspired...Such an amazing moment regardless of the race and the result on the board, that’s a moment that you’ll never, ever forget for the rest of your life.” Ironically, Hamblin displayed that same "spirit" after D'Agostino fell to the track again, this time with Nikki helping Abbey to her feet. 

It's no wonder that the actions of these athletes won the hearts of many-they were amazing. And while an act of good sportsmanship can certainly win the hearts of those witnessing it, the Bible tells us that a wise person, by their lifestyle, can definitely win the "souls" of those witnessing it . You see, just as a beautiful tree attracts people to its shade and fruit, a wise person, by living a life full of meaning and purpose, attracts others to the reason behind that meaning.

These two runners came to Rio to take home a medal. But they will take home so much more... a moment and a memory that, undoubtedly, will never be forgotten by them or the people that witnessed it. Might our actions and our lives affect others in the same way, causing them to pause and seek out the meaning and purpose of it all... causing them to seek out Jesus.

Heavenly Father, thank you for being the meaning of our life and the purpose for which we breathe. May we live such purposeful lives that our actions cause others to seek out the same meaning for their lives and lead them to You. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Hollyn - Love with your life

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

Don't get disqualified

"I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified." 1 Corinthians 9:27

Can you imagine the dedication, hard work and sacrifice it takes to be an Olympic athlete? The days, weeks and years of training a person must complete for the honor and privilege of running on an Olympic field in front of thousands of people? Wilhem Belocian, from France, did. He had done all that and was waiting to race the 110-meter hurdles when the unthinkable happened. He bolted out of the block a split second before his competitors in his heat Monday night and was disqualified. Just like that his dreams of Olympic glory were gone. The one and done rule about false starts was played out on live television as the defeated runner collapsed to the ground in agony. 

Wow. Putting in all that hard work only to be disqualified must have been his worst fear come true. The apostle Paul shared that same fear when he wrote, "I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear preaching to others I myself might be disqualified." He didn't mean that he could lose his salvation but that he could lose the privilege of teaching and telling others about Christ if he, himself, did not follow the rules or the principles he was teaching. He knew, just like that, he could become ineligible to do the very thing he trained so hard to do if he wasn't careful.

As the story shows, even the most trained of athletes can slip up and make a mistake worthy of disqualification. Paul knew it and he knew the same was true of each one of us in our walk with Christ. So may we heed Paul's warning and stay focused on the goal, adhering to the commandments laid out in the Word that we, too, might not be disqualified. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that tells us what the rules are. Help us to discipline ourselves to learn and follow the teachings you have laid out that we might be able to share the Gospel with others. Help us to be ever vigilant and cautious of the way we act that we might not get disqualified for not practicing what we preach. It's in your precious name, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Running - Hillside

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTl3rv6ZTNo

http://www.foxnews.com/sports/2016/08/16/olympic-runner-seen-breaking-down-on-track-after-disqualification.html

Set your sights

"Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13,14

When American runner, Galen Rupp, decided to attempt "the Olympic double" by competing in the 10,000 meters and the marathon, he had his "sights set on" bringing home two medals. But after a disppointing fifth-place finish in the 10k race Saturday, Rupp had this to say, "I came in here knowing it would be hard to do both, but I wanted to give it a shot. Now I’ll give myself tonight to be upset about this, but after that it’s full-steam ahead. You gotta have a short memory in this sport sometimes, and I’m just going to be focused on recovery.. getting ready to have another race.”

By choosing to quickly forget the past and concentrate on the future, I would say that Galen has greatly increased his chances of taking hold of that next prize he has his "sights set on", the men's Marathon on August 21. In order to "win the prize for which" God called Paul to, he also knew the importance of forgetting the past. You see he had held the coats of those who had stoned Stephen, the first Christian martyr, to death and was responsible for the imprisonment and persecution of many more Christians. But that was the past and Paul knew he was forgiven. And he also knew that if he was to move toward what was ahead and the amazing things God had planned for him now, that past needed to stay in the past. 

If we're honest, we would all admit to having done things for which we are ashamed of, things keeping us from being the person we are called to be. But that was then and this is now-that was the old you! So today, right now and wherever you may be, make the choice to keep the past in the past and move forward to victory.

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that, no matter what we have done or what we have failed to do, that if we ask for forgiveness you would forgive us and give us a new life. Knowing that, may we have very short memories and set our sights on forgetting what is behind and pressing on towards the goal. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

That was then, this is now - Josh Wilson

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

http://www.runnersworld.com/olympics/galen-rupp-you-gotta-have-a-short-memory-in-this-sport-sometimes

Pave the way

"This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you. For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline." 2 Timothy 1:6,7

Jemima Sumgong, of Kenya, won the women's Rio Olympic marathon yesterday in 2:24:04 with American runners Shalane Flanagan, Desiree Linden and Amy Cragg finishing sixth, seventh and ninth in the 26.2 mile race. But do you realize that this may never have happened if one female hadn't paved the way? You see thirty two years ago (on August 5, 1984), when marathon running was still considered a "man's sport", Joan Benoit Samuelson won the first ever women's Olympic Marathon. While there's no doubt that God blessed her with an ability to run, she had to overcome her fear of what others thought about her first before competing. Samuelson said, "When I first started running, I was so embarrassed I'd walk when cars passed me. I'd pretend I was looking at the flowers." She explained that girls didn't run in public then.

Not only did Joan pave the way for women runners around the world to participate in a sport not fitting for girls, she served as a role model for thousands of young female runners everywhere. Had she given into her fears or the opposition she was facing though, she never would have fulfilled the purpose God had gifted her for-she may have been just another girl staring at the daisies. In his letter to young Timothy who was also facing opposition, but to his message and his leadership, Paul wrote, "This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you.. For God has not given us a spirit of fear.."

Paul was reminding Timothy that God's power was much greater than his fears and so he should not be intimidated by any person or thing that stood in opposition to him using his gift to fulfill the purpose for which Timothy was created. That reminder is certainly good for all of us isn't it? So whatever talent God has gifted you with, may you be unafraid to fan it into flames and pave the way for others to do so too. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving each of us special gifts. May we not fear any opposition or embarrassment to using those gifts to lead others to You or to bring glory to your Name. Help us to identify our special talent, Lord, and then to do it to the best of our ability that we might tell others that you are the Giver of it. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Consuming fire - Hillsong

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCXh70eHSw4

Ready?

"But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect," 1 Peter 3:15

Seven years ago Brazil, with one of the fastest growing economies in the world, was chosen by the IOC to host the 2016 Olympic games. But now, many years later with the country facing its greatest recession in a century and embroiled in a huge government corruption scandal, Brazil is showing signs that they might not be as prepared as they thought they would be. In fact, another big indication of that may have come when the pools at the Maria Lenk Aquatic Center turned green early this week because Rio organizers ran out of the correct chemicals to treat the water. It kinda leaves a person at a loss for words doesn't it?

When it comes to being prepared and having ample words, the Bible tells us that you and I are to always "be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks" to give the reason for the hope we have. And being able to reply with that answer means getting ready beforehand, well before the time comes to speak, by studying the Word and being prepared to explain and defend what we believe in. 

And it's not only getting ready that counts, as the story shows, but staying ready. It's knowing Jesus, the reason for our hope, so well that we will always have the words to convey what He means to us. So, unlike Brazil who was ready at one time and then caught unprepared the next, may you and I always be found with the right words. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us. Thank you for your blessings and the hope of forgiveness, mercy, grace and eternal life that is only found in you. Give us a passion, Lord, for studying your Word that we might be ready now and always to share our reason for such hope to others that they might come to know you too. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Ever be - Aaron Schust

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZDyMJhd4Bo

Don't do it

"Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable." Romans 12:17

At the opening game ceremonies last Friday night in Rio, renowned Brazilian marathoner Vanderlei Cordeiro de Lima, 46, had the honor of lighting the Olympic cauldron at Macarana Stadium. While De Lemi is not the fastest runner in Brazilian history, it is said that he "has done more to bring honor to his nation and his sport" than any other runner. Why? Because of what he didn't do 12 years ago in Athens, Greece when he ran to a bronze medal finish in the marathon. 

In Romans 12:17, we are told clearly to "Never pay back evil with more evil." But to do things in such a way that everyone can see that we are honorable. And that's just what he did at the 2004 Olympic games when, in first place at the 36-kilometer mark and with a 25-second lead, he was shoved by a man into a group of spectators lining the course. The attacker was quickly pulled off him but de Lima lost precious seconds. Its what he didnt do next that earned him recognition. He didn't react with evil or bad behavior, paying back evil for evil, but quickly regained his composure, accepted his now third place standing and ran to the finish line where "with a big grin on his face and arms outstretched he began weaving along the track's home straight, blowing kisses to an appreciative crowd."  

Wow! His reaction certainly showed how we should react in the face of bad behavior doesn't it? And by doing things in such a way to show that he was honorable, de Lima was awarded the rarely given Pierre de Coubertin Medal with the IOC spokesman saying, "We decided to do this in recognition of de Lima’s exceptional demonstration of fair play and Olympic values during this evening’s marathon.” This is clearly one example of sportsmanship we would all do well to follow.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the examples in the Bible and in life that remind us that repaying evil for evil will never win others to You. Help us to repay evil with kindness and compassion as we keep our eyes focused on You. Help us to use every opportunity, good and bad, to bring you glory, honor and praise. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Living for Your glory - Tim Hughes

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-j7h0RiuNE

http://www.runnersworld.com/olympics/watch-12-years-after-bizarre-olympic-marathon-moment-brazilian-runner-lights-flame

Identity in Christ

"Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come." 2 Corinthians 1:21,22

David Boudia and Steele Johnson each won a silver medal for the United States Monday in the men's synchronized 10-meter platform, giving Boudia his third all-time Olympic medal and Johnson his first. Following that amazing win and memorable dive, David did something even more amazing and memorable on live television by saying, "There's been an enormous amount of pressure. I've felt it. It's just an identity crisis. When my mind is on this [diving], and I'm thinking I'm defined by this, then my mind goes crazy. But we both know that our identity is in Christ." Steele agreed saying, "The way David just described it was flawless-the fact that I was going into this event knowing that my identity is rooted in Christ and not what the result of this competition is just gave me peace ... and it let me enjoy the contest."

Wow! The two divers confidently proclaimed to an audience of millions that their identity was not in their abilities, being Olympic athletes or winning any medals but in Christ alone. They could say this because the Holy Spirit was put in their hearts when they became believers and they had the peace and understanding only that can give. In fact, the Bible tells us that when you and I became believers, "He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit.." too.

And because we are his, marked and set apart, we are to live our lives reflecting that-doing everything to please the Father and identifying ourselves as his faithful servants. Would that describe you today? Like these true champions, are you unashamed to tell others where your true identity lies? 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gifts and abilities you have given each of us. While they are as different as we are, may we acknowledge that they all come from you and are to be used to bring you glory. Help us to remember that our identity is found in nothing else but you Lord. May our lives and words declare that, above all else, we are sold-out servants of the One True God. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Lecrae - Identity

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y7W4I0tQZps

http://www.christianexaminer.com/article/boudia-and-johnson-proclaim-christ-on-national-tv-after-winning-silver/50949.htm

The multitudes

"Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision! For the day of the LORD is near in the valley of decision." Joel 3:14

A dear friend of mine, whose husband recently participated in RAGBRAI 2016 (The Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa), relayed that a bicyclist had been killed after being struck from behind by a motorist during the week long event that hosted up to 10,000 riders last month. The Iowa Highway Patrol reports that nine cyclists have already been killed in Iowa in 2016 — double the number from 2015 and the highest total since 2010. Taking the issue seriously, KCCI news reported that, "RAGBRAI fatality prompts call for new bike laws."

While bringing awareness to and halting distracted driving is a serious issue that needs to be addressed and corrected, there is a much more serious issue that needs to be confronted. In Joel 3:14, the prophet described multitudes waiting "in the valley of decision." or the valley of judgement-where billions of people, those dead, living and those yet-to-be born, will face judgement. This is a serious issue for those that don't know Jesus Christ! Look around you. Do your family and friends know? Do the people you work with, ride with or run with know? It's only when we understand the severity and finality of God's final judgement that we will take seriously the need to share God's offer of hope to the "multitudes". 

So today, will you tell someone before it's too late? Because as the famed playwright, Alan Bennett wrote and the unexpected death of the rider reminds us, "Sometimes there is no next time, no time outs, no second chances, sometimes it’s NOW or NEVER."

Heavenly Father, thank you so very much for the gift of forgiveness and hope. May we share that offer of hope to all those we know and don't know. Help us to be bold as we look at the multitudes of people we will come into contact with in our lifetime knowing that they might not know You and may not get a second chance to follow you before their time is done and they stand in the valley of decision. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Somebody tell them - City Harbor

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

Our first commitment

"Then the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground. He breathed the breath of life into the man's nostrils, and the man became a living person." Genesis 2:7

Just days before the Salinas Valley Half Marathon was set to take place this month it was canceled. The race, scheduled for August 6, was to be held about 40 miles from the flames that engulfed more than 45,000 acres north of Big Sur, California. Because the smoke from that fire was so heavily seeping into the Salinas Valley, the air quality was determined to be unhealthy and race officials made the decision to nix the event saying, "Our first commitment is always to the health and safety of our runners and volunteers." It wasn't a total loss though, officials say that all the water, food and other race supplies will be donated to the firefighters battling the blaze. 

While giving thought to the potential dangers of breathing in polluted air, have you ever given thought to the reason you can breathe air at all? In Genesis 2:7, the Bible tells us that, "God formed the man from the dust of the ground. He breathed the breath of life into the man's nostrils, and the man became a living person." Wow. There is really nothing fancy or special then about our bodies if we were formed from dirt is there? In fact, you and I were nothing but dust, lifeless and worthless... until God breathed life into us. So you see, it's God's Spirit that gives you and me worth, not what we look like, our abilities or what we have accomplished. 

Simply said, we are nothing without the Lord. Good air or bad air... any air would not be ours to breathe had God not chosen to give us that very first "breath of life". Knowing that, shouldn't we be spending our lives honoring, praising and thanking him for what he has done? Shouldn't that be our first commitment?

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us the breath of life. Help us to remember that we are absolutely nothing without you. We were formed from the dust and to the dust we will soon return. What we do while we have air in our lungs is what matters. May we love, honor, worship and praise you with every breath. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Chris Tomlin/Lecrae - Awake my soul

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

http://www.runnersworld.com/general-interest/monterey-fire-forces-cancellation-of-salinas-valley-half-marathon

Turn your cheek

"If someone slaps you on one cheek, offer the other cheek also. If someone demands your coat, offer your shirt also." Luke 6:29

Davenport, Iowa's KWQC news reported Saturday that "A bit of confusion and fighting happened between elite runners during the Bix 7 Road Race Saturday morning." According to the report, Silas Kipruto, irritated with Teshome Mekonen trailing him so closely, turned around and attempted to slap him. With a time of 33:03 Kipruto did end up winning the race. Mekonen, very upset about the incident, protested the win but was turned down.

While most of us will never follow an elite runner so closely that they will slap us, chances are we have done or will do something that might get us smacked or smited. If that were to happen, as Christians, how should we react? In Luke 6:29, Jesus said, "If someone slaps you on one cheek, offer the other cheek also. If someone demands your coat, offer your shirt also." Is he telling us that we are not to defend ourselves or that we are to let others take advantage of us? Of course not. We are instead being instructed to give up any motivation for personal revenge when someone wrongs us-we are to be motivated by love instead, hoping our reaction will lead the other person to repent and follow Christ. Rather than seeking retaliation, you and I are to do good to those who wrong us-loving, forgiving and praying for them. 

Taking this approach that's so different from what the world expects often opens opportunities to share the Gospel. You see, when we respond in a manner that is unnatural, people will want to know why. And it's then that we can tell them about Jesus. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us your Holy Spirit that gives us love where the world has hate and peace when the world would have dissension. Help us to stand apart from others and to imitate your example of loving our enemies even when it is hard. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen, 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Tenth Avenue North - Losing

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

http://kwqc.com/2016/07/30/bix-winner-silas-kipruto-attempts-to-slap-competitor-during-race/

Follow orders

"The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delights in his way." Psalm 37:23

Last week I had the pleasure of running with a dear friend who drove 20 minutes to meet me at my town park. Rather than taking the most direct way home and the way he had come though, he felt led to take a different route that day. This alternate road was normally avoided by many drivers because not only did it take longer, it was much less traveled, filled with long stretches of narrow, curvy twists, turns and empty fields and is a literal black hole for cell phone reception. If he wondered what he was doing there, he didn't wonder long as he soon spotted a young lady that had run out of gas. Seizing the opportunity to help, he cheerfully took her gas can, filled it up and brought it back to her. When she offered to pay him for the kindness, my friend humbly shrugged it off and explained that he was only doing what he was told to do. 

Is that a way to share the love of Christ with someone or what? And regardless of what many people might say, that meeting was not by chance, luck, fate or accident. It was a "divine appointment" orchestrated by God himself. You see, Psalm 37:23 tells us that, "The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord.." As any good soldier does, my friend listened for his orders, heard them and obeyed. Unlike an army drill sergeant though, our Commander doesn't shout our orders but rather urges us through promptings of the Holy Spirit. It's that feeling to go right when you really want to go left, that urge to stop and talk when you just want to go on your way or that voice prompting you to approach a complete stranger to offer your help.... that's how we get our orders. 

As Pam Russell writes, and this young lady witnessed, "Divine appointments don't always look like what we think they look like. Be aware. Be open." In other words, listen closely for your next order. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us all so dearly that you would set up meetings where we could help, strengthen and encourage one another. May we be always be ready, anticipating and listening for our next order that we might show your love to a world in need. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Matthew West - World Changers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZ2-OcyDu6I

Don't get duped

"Jesus answered, “See to it that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, claiming, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many." Matthew 24:4,5

When the Naperville Women's Half Marathon registration opened up last year, Ellen Ziliak logged on to Active.com to register for a limited number of discounted slots. While she admits that she got an incredible deal (only a $25 registration fee), she also admits that she got "duped". She explained that, in her haste to complete the registration process, she failed to pay close attention and inadvertently signed up for a membership program that cost her an additional $69.95. So much for that good deal they promised huh?

While her experience serves as a reminder to be extra careful in how we conduct our business and to pay attention, it's also a reminder that we can be "duped" or fooled rather easily. The bible tells us that when the disciples questioned Jesus of what to expect in the end times and what would be the sign of his return, Jesus answered them saying, "See to it that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, claiming, 'I am the Christ' and will deceive many." History shows that the list of those claiming to be the Messiah, or have special revelations from Him, is long-and the list of those people deceived into believing the lies even longer. And sadly enough, there are still people preaching, saying and claiming things today that are not true.

When speaking of the truth though, you can be sure of one thing-if the words or actions of someone don't add up, truth wasn't included in the equation. So may you and I seek to know the truth and check the facts so well that we would not believe anything we see or hear that does not add up to or equal 100 percent of the truth laid out in God's Word.

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that allows us to spot false teachings and teachers. May we be careful not to believe what we see, hear or read until we have measured it against the absolute Truth. May we be truth seekers and fact checkers Lord that we may not be deceived. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Don't be fooled - Apologetix

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EsSWZ7VRDxI

http://www.runnersworld.com/watchdog/sign-up-for-a-race-check-your-card-for-this-charge

Don't say the name

"You will be hated by everyone on account of My name, but the one who perseveres to the end will be saved." Matthew 10:22

On July 27, Olympic athletes entered what is referred to as a "blackout period", not to end until August 24, in which they are prohibited from talking, tweeting or posting about their sponsors who aren't also sponsors of the Olympic Games. The action was prompted by the passing of Rule 40 which was established "to protect Olympic sponsors, who spend millions of dollars for exclusive marketing rights during the Olympics." The evening before the rule was to take effect though, many Olympians took to social media to publicly acknowledge their sponsors like American steeplechaser Emma Coburn who tweeted, "#Rule40 starts tomorrow so I won't be able to say Thank You to my sponsor. THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING @newbalance.” It might seem hard to believe that a tweet mentioning the name of a sponsor could carry serious penalties for an athlete but it's true. If strictly enforced, an athlete caught mentioning the name of their sponsor could be disqualified and stripped of their medals.  

You know the time is coming, and in some places has already arrived, when you and I will suffer serious penalties for mentioning a name too... the name of Jesus. In fact, the Bible tells you and me plainly that we "will be hated by everyone" on account of that Name. Talk about the ultimate blackout period. Without Jesus, this world would be a dark place void of hope and with no chance of salvation. We just cannot let that happen! There are people who need to hear the Name above all Names and the only Name by which they might be saved. They need to hear the name... Jesus.

So when the time comes when we are told to be silent, will you stand firm and persevere to the end? In the words of Martin Luther King Jr., "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy."

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that clearly tells us that a day is coming and has already come when we will suffer serious penalties for speaking the name Jesus. May we be even bolder and louder as we proclaim that there is no other name by which a person can be saved. May we be willing to suffer persecution, to stand firm and persevere to the end shouting your name for all to hear. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Go tell it - RDMJ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z8hPHxYjYrM

http://www.si.com/olympics/2016/07/27/rule-40-explained-2016-olympic-sponsorship-blackout-controversy