Ditch the stress

"It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones." Psalm 127:2 NLT

Yeah, yeah.. we've all heard it. Getting enough sleep is important, especially for runners. But did you know that not getting eight hours of it is one of the top surefire ways to mess up your morning workout? And the research done on the importance of grabbing your Zzzs only heightens its significance. Apparently this is the time when your body recovers from those sessions of vigorous physical exercise and getting too little of it could very easily set you up for failure the next day in more ways than one. 

And the top reason an estimated 25 to 30 percent of Americans aren't getting enough rest? Stress - mainly the stress caused by working too much and worrying how to make ends meet. No matter the cause though, this harmful state of mental and emotional strain interferes with the biological processes that help us fall asleep (which can leave us even more stressed). And why the Bible is so clear about the futility of working tirelessly, at the expense of sleep, to gain those things we should be trusting God to provide. You see, when we trust God fully and allow Him to dictate what we do and when, we will maintain a healthy balance between work and rest. 

So if you find that your training, family life or personal life is suffering from the demands of work today, won't you take some time to ask God if you're truly trusting him to meet all your needs? And then work toward having that healthy balance that allows you to claim the precious gift of rest that God so graciously gives "to his loved ones." 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that serves to remind us that, although we are not to be lazy in serving you or working, we also need to take time to rest and recharge our bodies both physically and spiritually. Help us to trust that if we have listened to and heeded your direction, that you will provide those things we need eliminating our need to worry or stress. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Chris Tomlin - Sovereign
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gaKgsf5D5Ns

https://www.runnersworld.com/for-beginners-only/7-surefire-ways-to-mess-up-your-morning-workout/slide/2

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/why-cant-you-sleep-the-8-top-reasons-for-insomnia_us_584eead0e4b04c8e2bb0d021

Give however you can

"Whatever you give is acceptable if you give it eagerly. And give according to what you have, not what you don't have." 2 Corinthians 8:12

SB Nation reported yesterday that athletes and teams from all over the great state of Texas and beyond are stepping up to help the thousands of people in the wake of Hurricane Harvey's devastation of Houston. The Houston Astros have donated 4 million to efforts. St. Louis Cardinals' Matt Carpenter has pledged $10,000 for every home run he hits for the rest of the season and the Texans defensive end, J.J. Watt, has raised over 5.1 million dollars including a $100,000 donation from Watt himself. And the list of those helping goes on.

And while comparing what you and I have to offer with what these athletes have given might have us feeling that our small contribution won't make a difference, consider that five million dollars of what Watt collected came from individual donations of all amounts that simply added up-donations that were given eagerly and according to what each person had. And what each of has to give is not always money. Do you have extra time? Spend it helping others. Do you have a unique talent? Use it to serve others. 

The point is this... if we all were to give according to what we have, whether that be time or resources, little or much, we would most certainly make a difference in Houston and in our own neighborhoods. Wouldn't you agree? So let us give eagerly, expecting nothing in return, and in this way show the love of Christ to a world desperately needing Him above all else. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your presence in the midst of a chaotic world. It is the one sure place we can turn to for comfort no matter what storms rage around us. Thank you for the people that give of their time, talents and wealth to help others. May we follow their example and do the same. And Lord we pray for the city of Houston and all those impacted by the flood. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.  

Happy Running!!!

Be one - Natalie Grant

https://youtu.be/iq-6pXBHCZM

https://www.sbnation.com/2017/8/29/16220676/athletes-teams-contributions-charities-houston-flood-hurricane-harvey

Self control needed

"A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls." Proverbs 25:28

Thousands of runners, including Cynthia Gillespie of Canby, Oregon, gathered together last weekend to participate in the Hood to Coast Relay, a 199-mile race from Timberline Lodge to Seaside, Oregon. Also competing in the race was David Jon Blackmon, 36, of Bend, Oregon, who allegedly stole a pickup truck while intoxicated around 2 a.m. Saturday and drove through a nearby field where four runners, including Gillespie, were resting. While three of them were able to jump to safety, Cynthia wasn't so lucky. She was run over and dragged a short distance before the truck came to rest on her leg. Blackmon now faces some serious charges including driving under the influence, driving with a revoked license and reckless driving. He and his team have also been barred from the race for life. 

And while, thankfully, Gillespie was treated at a nearby hospital and released with minor injuries, the story could have had a much sadder ending-all because one person chose to give in to temptation rather than practice self-control. And if self-control is defined as the ability to regulate one's emotions, thoughts, and behavior in the face of temptations and impulses, the Bible is clear that a person without it "is like a city with broken-down walls." You see, even though walls restrict where you and I can go and what we do, they are important to keep us safe. They give us set boundaries. And as the story illustrates, a person's life with no walls, or set boundaries, is a life that is out-of-control and one that will result in harm to themselves or to others. 

Perhaps you, or someone you know, is struggling to practice self-control in the midst of temptations today as well? Let me remind you that you can't do it in your own power. No one can. As Andy Mineo wrote, "Here is the paradox of Christian living. We must give up control of self to gain self control." In other words, we must surrender our lives to God. And the more we do that, the more formidable our walls will be and the more self control we will have. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the Bible that warns us of the dangers of not having self control. May we recognize the need to yield to that warning so greatly that we make every attempt to draw closer to you through the Word and prayer each and every day. Help us to surrender to you and build up strong walls Lord. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

I surrender - Casting Crowns

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nXzjLUN6Fd0

https://www.runnersworld.com/hood-to-coast/runner-accused-of-driving-over-woman-with-pickup

We are marked

"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

One of my most cherished times to run is very early on Sunday mornings before church. Not only does the time alone with the Lord help prepare my heart for worship later but allows me to bask in the sights and smells only the dawn can bring. And on this particular Sunday, I was in for a real treat. Cresting the hill on the dusty farm road I was traveling, I spotted three tiny calves (smallest ones I had ever seen) staying close to their momma as she grazed. As I stopped in my tracks at the sight (triplets are very rare) to admire these little babies, I spotted something else that made me smile. Each one of these cows was marked with an ear tag. The master, or owner, of these animals cared about them so much, the young and the old alike, that he "set his seal of ownership" on them so there would be no disputing to whom they belonged.

And as I continued to stand there in awe, I couldn't help but be humbled by the thought that our Master has done the same for each of his children as well. You see, the Bible tells us that when you and I accepted Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, "he anointed" and "set his seal of ownership on us." And that we might know for sure to Whom it is we belong, he "put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come." And this "Spirit" which was put in the heart of every believer promises, with absolute certainty, that we belong to the Lord now and for eternity. 

So isn't it great to know that we belong to a God that loves us so much that he would mark us as his very own so that nothing could separate us from him? I sure think so. That's why I can't, and won't, keep this Good News to myself and I hope you won't either. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the blessing of being able to call you Father and Lord. Thank you for loving us so much that you would mark us as your own even when we don't deserve it and can do nothing to earn it. Thank you for the promise of eternal salvation and the comfort that guarantee brings. Help us to be bold to share the Good News with everyone that they, too, might come to call you Master too. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

We are yours - I Am They

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-59K00OUEM0

No giving up

"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

Knowing personally how tedious and lonely it can be to work out solo, I was blessed to be able to accompany a dear friend for her last and longest (30 miles) training run. And as we set off early Saturday morning, she and I were looking forward to what we knew would be the best part of it-the finish and the time she could declare that all the hard work she had put in, leading up to and on this day, was worth it. And, many hours later, as we bowed to pray and give thanks that it was done, we reflected on how this moment could have been something not worth celebrating at all. You see, midway through the run, with the sun bearing down on us and fatigue creeping in, we briefly discussed cutting it short. But praise God we focused on the goal instead and didn't "give up." 

And you know, as hard as this was to complete, living with the regret of quitting in the midst of the few obstacles we faced would have been harder. But do you realize that this battle to overcome opposition in our pursuit to the finish line is no different in our spiritual lives? Paul did. In fact, he knew it so well that he was compelled to remind the churches in Southern Galatia and himself (notice the word us?) to "not become weary in doing good." He was urging them, and us, to not become discouraged when things get hard but to press on instead and trust God so we would "at the proper time" reap the rewards and benefits from not giving up. 

Wow. And you know the promise that "we will reap a harvest if we do not give up" is just as true today. It's a promise from God, himself, that we will one day reap what we sow... if we don't give up before the finish line that is. So keep pressing on my friend, especially when it's hard. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that guarantees that our hard work will have its rewards. Help us to remember this when we feel like giving up and instead look to you to give us the strength we need to keep going. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Don't give up - Third Day

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ueB2f33d--8

Trust His timing

"God's way is perfect. All the LORD's promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection." Psalm 18:30

Talk about perfect timing. Dr. Tamara Kuzma was waiting at a stoplight in Alberta, Canada watching runners from the Edmonton Marathon pass by when she noticed a man in his mid-20s lying on the ground (a witness said he had collapsed on his way to the finish line just seconds before). When he hadn't moved for about 15 seconds, she got out of her car and went to help. Unable to find a pulse, she quickly began CPR until the man started breathing again and then went on her way once the paramedics arrived.

And if you think that it was mere coincidence that the doctor happened to be in just the right place at just the right time, think again. The Bible tells us that, "God's way is perfect." That means everything he does is flawless and his timing is precisely accurate. He is never too early and never too late. And while we may never understand why God seems to come to our aid quickly some of the time and makes us wait at other times, we can rest in the knowledge that he has a perfect plan for us. 

Perhaps you're in a period of waiting today and find yourself questioning God's timing? Well you can rest assured my friend that since his way is flawless and because his "promises prove true", that our heavenly Father knows exactly where you and I are in our lives at this very moment and will give us just what we need at just the right time.

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that reassures us that we can trust in your timing even when we don't understand it. Help us to remember that your ways are perfect and that you are a shield for all those who look to you for protection. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Dottie Peoples - He's an on time God

https://youtu.be/mRgvYgOJK6g

http://edmontonjournal.com/news/local-news/man-collapsed-during-edmonton-road-race-2

Uniquely different

"Bring everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made." Isaiah 43:7

Runners World Magazine recently took a poll and then asked its readers, "How do you compare to this survey of runners?" Through the many questions asked, the study revealed (among other things) that the majority of runners think Fall is the best season to run in and early mornings the best time. The favorite race distance was the half marathon and the majority of runners use a paved path to log their miles. And would you believe that only 17% of those surveyed carried cash or a credit card while 59% brought along their smart phone?

And while it may be entertaining to see what characteristics we share with other runners, we would be wise to refrain from comparing ourselves to them or anyone else. You see, God created, or "made" each of us uniquely to bring Him glory in different ways-and He "formed" us into who we need to be to do that by our experiences in life-the things that happen to us and around us. And since no two people will ever have or share the same experiences, you can be sure that God has a very specific and unique calling and plan for each of us. 

So don't fall into the trap of comparing yourself to someone else my friend. Doing that might just end in you wanting to be like them and cause you to miss your distinct calling. May you and I instead focus on what God wants us to be as individuals and the specific purpose He has for our lives.

Heavenly Father, thank you for making each of us so unique from our DNA down to our life's experiences. Help us to avoid comparing ourselves to other people that we might find and pursue the special purpose for which we were created to bring You glory. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

For His glory - Tasha Cobb
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRJ7BEsmuDY

https://www.runnersworld.com/general-interest/how-do-you-compare-to-this-survey-of-runners

Your love will prove it

"Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples." Simon Peter asked, “Lord, where are you going?” And Jesus replied, "You can’t go with me now, but you will follow me later." John 13:35, 36 NLT

The triathlon community of Oklahoma City is mourning the loss of Robert Andres Griffioen this week after he went for a run Sunday evening while visiting his in-laws in Moore, Oklahoma, and was struck by a pickup and killed. The 29-year-old runner left behind his wife, Stephanie, and five-year-old son Josiah. As tragic as this accident was though, there is solace for his family in knowing that Robert went to be with the Lord. In fact, his life reflected his faith so much that his wife Stephanie said that their son, "keeps telling people in this happy voice that his daddy died and is in heaven with Jesus." 

And you know, no matter how well we care for our bodies, death will come to all of us-and sadly to some, it will come sooner than expected. But we can leave those left to mourn our loss with peace knowing that we are in heaven with Jesus by the way we live our lives. You see, the Bible tells us that our "love for one another will prove to the world that" we are followers of Jesus Christ. And for all those who exhibit this unconditional love, proving Jesus is their Lord and Savior, the promise that he gave the disciples is the same one they can claim... that they will "follow later." 

I wonder, can you claim that promise today? Are you certain that if you died right now that you would be in heaven with Jesus? And have you made it so clear to others by the way you've lived that they would know too? If not, right now is the time to make a new commitment to following Jesus my friend. After all, your eternity depends on it. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for these reminders that tomorrow isn't promised to any of us. I pray that you would be with the Griffioen family as they mourn the loss of a man they loved so dearly. And, Father, I pray that if there is anyone reading this that is unsure of whether they will join you in Heaven, that they will accept you as their Lord and Savior at this very moment. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Save a place for me - Matthew West

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zbsBUf9VKyc

Pick your partner

"Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much." Luke 16:10

Competitor Magazine recently published an article titled, "The Best Qualities To Look For In An Ideal Running Partner." And while it was obvious that choosing a companion that was training for the same distance as you, was about the same pace and could train at the same time you do was important, there was one character trait that was of even greater importance... dependability. You see, even if you and your running partner were compatible in every other way they listed, if he or she isn't faithful to show up or was consistently late, it wouldn't help you much would it? 

And when it comes to being dependable, the Bible tells us that, "Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much..." And if by definition, dependability, or faithfulness means the quality of being able to be counted or relied upon, we would do well as Christians to be faithful in all things, right? That means, barring an emergency, you and I should always do everything we say we will. We should be faithful in keeping our word to our running partners, our friends, our spouses, our children and anyone else we might interact with. 

So while dependability should most certainly be what we look for in a friend or running partner, it should also be a trait by which you and I are known. May you and I be found faithful then with both "very little" and "with much" that we might be set apart as followers of Christ. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that guides us in all our ways. Help us to be faithful in all we do that others might see You in us and be drawn to the foot of the Cross. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

All the way - Newsboys

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WKgebGCFif4

http://running.competitor.com/2017/08/training/makes-ideal-running-partner_8542#Di0kXWqrCUcRQZfX.99

Train for godliness

"Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come." 1 Timothy 4:8 NLT

My plan Saturday was to wake up early enough to get in my morning Bible study and slip in a short run-all before having to leave home by 7 a.m. to help with my church garage sale. But you know what they say about plans... they never seem to go as planned. Which is exactly what happened. I woke up nearly an hour later than planned and only had time for one or the other. "Hmmm..," I thought to myself, "Go for a run or spend time with the Lord?" And you know what? I surely didn't miss that run near as much as I would have missed skipping my devotion time. 

And when it comes to the importance of physical training versus spiritual training, Paul had something to say. In his letter to Timothy, he wrote that "physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better.." You see, he was telling Timothy that, while we should most definitely keep our physical bodies in shape, the benefits of doing so wouldn't last long (as our bodies age and decay no matter how well we work to maintain them). But "training for godliness", or practicing and preparing to be wholeheartedly devoted to honoring, loving and serving Christ, promised "benefits in this life and in the life to come" and was, therefore, so much more important.  

So let us work to maintain our health as best we can my friends. After all, the fitter we are the better able we are to serve others. But let us never do so at the expense of doing what's most important... spending time with the Lord, learning and training to be the godly people He has called us to be. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that gives us everything we need to grow closer in our walk with you. Help us to remember that all training requires a sacrifice of time and discipline but that the rewards far outweigh the costs. May we seek you Lord above all other things that we might be known, and seek to be known, as godly Christians devoted to following you. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Give me Jesus - Danny Gokey

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbh43MGoigw

Truly marvelous

"He makes my feet like hinds' feet, And sets me upon my high places." Psalm 18:33

Did you know that yesterday was National I Love My Feet Day? It's true. There's actually a day set aside every year that encourages people to appreciate how valuable their feet are, to practice good foot care and pamper their feet. Let's face it though-even though our feet take us wherever we want to go, whether that be by running or walking, they don't get the attention they deserve. But did you know that the Human foot is one of the most intricate structures in the human body? Consisting of 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments, the foot is truly marvelous.

And if that weren't enough to have you looking at your feet in a whole new light, consider what David, in his thankfulness to the Lord for being delivered from his enemies, wrote about them, "He makes my feet like hinds' feet.." David was acknowledging how truly marvelous his feet were when he allowed God to control and direct them. You see, a hind, or female red deer has very skinny feet but is the most sure-footed mountain animal around, able to effortlessly move through mountainous terrain without stumbling. David knew, without a doubt, that he made it through the battle without stumbling only because God had equipped him, or his feet, to do so. 

And thankfully God's promises are still true today my friend. If you and I will simply allow Him to direct our steps, he will equip us to fight whatever battle we might be facing today too. Oh praise the Maker of our truly marvelous feet. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the many ways you equip us to fight our battles. You keep our feet from stumbling and set us on the high places. May we, like David, give you the glory for every victory and the praise that you are due. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Order my steps - Joy Nicole Cover

https://youtu.be/JHC7ASrzZRc

https://nationaldaycalendar.com/national-i-love-my-feet-day-2/

http://creationwiki.org/Human_foot

Our hope in Him

"Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will not be shaken." Psalm 62:5,6

With summer vacation ending and my daughter preparing for her first day of Junior High, I went to bed early-intent on getting eight hours sleep to wake up refreshed and ready to get her off to school and then go for a run. Sometime in the early morning hours though, my hopes were dashed as the fury of the storm outside woke me up. And as I laid there determined to go back to sleep, I heard it.... drip, drip, drip. "Oh no!" I thought to myself, "That's the sound of water getting in around the vent we had repaired just a few months ago." But as I laid there "quietly before God" I knew, with my husband out of town working and the rain continuing to fall, there was nothing I could do. So, as the trashcan that I had emptied and placed down only hours before (in just the right spot praise God) collected the water, I drifted off into a peaceful slumber. 

You know the Bible tells us that, in the midst of any storm, you and I can always find rest because our "hope is in him." And we can have this certain hope, or confident expectation, that all things will work out because He, and He alone, keeps his promises... every single one of them. And his promise to be our rock on whom we can stand with sure footing, the salvation we can never lose, and the fortress where we can find safety and shelter in the midst of this crazy world is true. And it's because of this that you and I can most assuredly declare, "I will not be shaken." 

So no matter what storm you might be facing today, remember that eternal life awaits all those who believe and realize that their "hope is in him." Knowing that, the rest is just small stuff, right?

Heavenly Father, thank you for your promises that are always true. Help us to remember what a strong and mighty God you are and that you have the power to overcome any problem in our path. Help us to "wait quietly" before you as we trust that you will uphold us, protect us and comfort us in our times of need. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

It is well - Finding Favour

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SR0vdvcdYG0

Keep the zeal

"Do not let your zeal subside; keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord." Romans 12:11

Emmy nominated actor Sterling K. Brown ran 10 miles on his 21st birthday just to see if he could run double-digit mileage and continued that birthday tradition every year until he was 30. "Nowadays," he said, "four miles is my sweet spot... if I get in four miles four to five days a week, I'm happy." And his motivation for changing from an uncommitted annual runner to a committed weekly one? Zeal. Sterling says, "I’ve got a psychological zeal about running." In other words, he has developed an inner dedication or enthusiasm for the sport that drives him to continue pressing on.

And when it comes to having a passion for something, specifically for doing those things God has called us to, the Bible reminds us to never let our "zeal subside". In other words, we should never let our enthusiasm and eagerness to serve the Lord decline, dwindle or diminish in any way. And no matter how it is that we are asked to serve, we should keep such a "spiritual fervor" while doing it that our passion and love for "serving the Lord" will be obvious to those around us. 

So how would you rate your level of zeal today? Are you on fire and excited about serving Him? Or merely looking to check it off your to-do list? If the latter describes you, remember that it's never too late to rekindle the love my friend. Simply pray that God would start a fire in your soul. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your many blessings. Help us to grasp just how amazing and wonderful you are that we would be excited once again to serve you. And no matter what job you have called us to do, whether it be cleaning the church bathrooms, working in the nursery or serving on a committee, let us be so joyful in doing it that others would see our "zeal". It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Start a fire - Unspoken

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrEzr-rWwe8 
https://www.runnersworld.com/im-a-runner/sterling-k-brown

Protect your mind

"More than anything you guard, protect your mind, for life flows from it." Proverbs 4:23 CEB

"Protect yourself from harmful UV rays, as well as sweat, rain, and whatever else tries to break your stride." Those recent words of advice from Runner's World were followed by some great reasons all runners should wear a hat while enjoying their favorite sport. Not only can the proper headgear help keep the rain, sun and wind out of our eyes but also help to keep sweat from dripping down and impairing our vision. If you've ever had your eyes stung by perspiration, you know it's one thing that can stop you in your tracks. 

And when it comes to protecting ourselves from things that hurt us, the Bible says, " More than anything you guard, protect your mind, for life flows from it." You see, the battle to avoid sin always starts in the mind. It begins with a thought and then, if our minds aren't protected, becomes an action. And our actions, good or bad, always affect our lives and those around us. So how do we protect our mind then? By having a 'running' conversation with the Lord, talking with Him at all times through constant prayer, meditation and times of devotion. It's this close relationship that will cause us to know when something's just not right and to pray on it before acting on it. 

So today, would you say that your mind is protected? Are you walking so closely with the Holy Spirit that you can recognize those thoughts, that if acted upon, have the power to stop you in your tracks? If the answer is no or maybe, I would highly recommend that you spend time in the Word and in prayer until you know, without a doubt, that your mind is protected. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that clearly tells us that we are susceptible to sin the very second we take our eyes off you. May we pray constantly, talking with You at all times and be ready to discard any thought that would threaten to cause us to sin. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

I need thee every hour - Jars of Clay

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2w3y3iT3NlU

https://www.runnersworld.com/running-gear/8-cool-running-hats-to-shield-you-from-the-sun

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Looking forward to it

"For this world is not our permanent home; we are looking forward to a home yet to come." Hebrews 13:14

To break up the monotony of running the same route every day, several times a month I like to drive to a neighboring town to do my early morning run. And while doing that very thing last week, I rounded a corner just in time to see my neighbor getting into her car. Looking up, she spotted me and said, "Well you're a long ways from home, aren't you?" Smiling, I agreed. And then thought to myself, "She has no idea how far away from "home" I really am... and how much I am "looking forward" to the day I will arrive."

But you know, while every Christian should be "looking forward to a home yet to come", we shouldn't forget that we have a purpose each and every day until we are called to go there. And it's the realization that "this world is not our permanent home", that gives us the freedom to live out that purpose. You see, when we become fully aware, and understand completely, that the things of this world are temporary-our homes, our jobs, our status, our cars and our belongings-we can pursue doing God's will (our purpose) above pursing these things that won't last.

So today, let us be bold in telling others about our "home yet to come" and why we are looking forward to going there that they, too, might give up the temporary to pursue that which is truly "permanent."

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that clearly tells us that this world and everything in it will pass. Help us to fully grasp how short our time is here that we might not waste a moment going after things that have no lasting value and only pursue those things that glorify You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Building 429 - Where I belong
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3F81afXrcA4

Like little children

"And he said: "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 18:3

One of the sad truths about running is this-if you run long enough, you will get injured. It happens to the best of us. But, according to corrective exercise specialist Dani Almeyda, you and I can decrease our chances of injury by making one simple change... crawling. It seems this latest trend of purposefully moving around on all fours like a child can give runners a little bit of everything they need like full-body strength, focus, improved posture and endurance. The result, Almeyda said, is a stronger, more efficient running pattern. 

And while that one small change can aid in our physical well-being, the Bible tells us of a change that is crucial to our spiritual well-being saying, unless we "change and become like little children", we "will never enter the kingdom of heaven". But what does that mean exactly? Billy Graham said it like this, "Jesus’ words about our need to become like little children are important. One of the main reasons people reject Jesus is pride; they believe they don’t need Him and can make it through life on their own. But only when we renounce our pride and come to Him with the humility and trust of a child can we be saved."

So if that's a change you need to make today, just do it my friend. Like a child, admit your total dependence on Him, humble yourself completely before Him and then trust your life completely to Him. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that clearly defines what we must to do enter the kingdom of heaven. Help us to humble ourselves that we might see our absolute need for you Lord and become like little children. Thank you Father for your love for us. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

For the first time again - Jason Gray

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfdwbuIv8bI

https://www.runnersworld.com/strength-training/why-crawling-like-a-baby-can-give-you-a-crazy-good-workout

All about the attitude

"Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you." Ephesians 4:31,32

On September 24, 2016, Dean Otto's life changed in an instant. While out riding his bike early that morning, the 52-year-old athlete was struck by a car and taken to a local hospital where, upon assessing his condition, Dr. Matt McGirt told Otto's family that there was a 99 percent chance that Dean would spend the rest of his life in a wheelchair. Refusing to give up or give in to bitterness though, Dean was determined to beat the odds. And beat the odds he did. By God's grace, Dean made a full recovery-- and did so with an attitude that witnesses said, not only "made an impression with the doctor who gave him his life back, but the man who almost took it away." You see, Dean refused to display resentment or anger but was kind, tenderhearted and forgiving to Will Huffman, the driver of the vehicle that hit him.

Let's be honest though. Most of us would not have handled the situation the way Dean did right? But the Bible tells us that "bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander" have no part in a Christian's life no matter what situation they might be facing. You see, our attitude, or way of thinking or feeling about someone or something, will be reflected in our behavior. And our behavior will either draw people closer to Christ or have them running in the opposite direction. 

So if you've ever wondered how much a positive attitude can affect those around you, consider the outcome of Dean's story. Dr. Matt McGirt and Will Huffman were inspired to take up running and joined Dean for his comeback race (a local 5k). The trio then went on to complete a half marathon together and now, along with their families, participate in biking events as well. Dr. McGirt said, "Dean definitely has had a lasting impact on me professionally, personally, and recreationally.” Wow! And to think that it was all because of one person's attitude. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit residing in us that can grant us peace and a loving heart in the midst of circumstances that should cause us anger, anxiety and unforgiveness. Help us to keep a Christ-like attitude no matter what we might be facing that we might bring others to the foot of the Cross. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Old Church Choir - Zach Williams

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

He is with you

"For you, O God, have tested us; you have tried us as silver is tried. You brought us into the net; you laid a crushing burden on our backs; you let men ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water; yet you have brought us out to a place of abundance." Psalm 66:10-12

British police released a dramatic video yesterday appearing to show a runner intentionally pushing a woman into the path of an oncoming bus as he passed by. The footage shows a 33-year-old female casually walking across Putney Bridge in southwest London (totally oblivious to any danger) as a male jogger approached so suddenly that she didn't have time to react to being knocked into the road, forcing the bus to swerve to avoid hitting her. Thankfully, police said, she suffered only minor injuries and they are actively looking for the mystery jogger.

And while this turn of events most certainly took the victim by surprise, do you realize that nothing ever takes God by surprise? And that He never says, "Wow, I didn't see that one coming?" It's true... everything that you and I go through, good or bad, God knows about beforehand. He's not surprised by a cancer diagnosis, a divorce, a death or any other calamity. And He is with us through it all. The psalmist understood that when he wrote, "For you, O God, have tested us... You brought us into the net... you laid a crushing burden on our backs..." The psalmist acknowledged God's presence through the trial and then joyfully recognized that deliverance came from God as well saying, "you have brought us out to a place of abundance." 

So no matter what you might be facing today, take courage my friend. God is faithful in all His promises and has promised to be with us wherever we go and whatever we go through. He loves his children that much--and that should come as no surprise. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that brings such comfort to us when we are struck out of nowhere by things we can't control. May we find peace and draw courage from the promise you have given us in Joshua 1:9 that says, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

You will make a way- I AM THEY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=beB-aH8vis8

http://wtvr.com/2017/08/08/runner-knocked-woman/

Everyone should do it

"Now we who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of those without strength and not just please ourselves." Romans 15:1

Former University of Maine runner Jesse Orach was competing in the Beacon to Beacon 10k when the effects of the 90 percent humidity level caused him to collapse just short of the finish line. And just when Jesse thought the race was over, he said he felt someone pick him up. That someone was Robert Gomez, a runner in second-place, who helped Orach to his feet and then to the finish line where they crossed together. It was later determined that Jesse had suffered a heat stroke with his core body temperature reaching a dangerous 107.3 degrees. 

You know Gomez could have easily ignored Orach and taken advantage of the weakened runners' condition to pass him and claim a first-place finish. Many other people would have. But bearing the "the weaknesses of those without strength" is exactly what the Bible commands us to do. It means that strong, or mature, Christians are to lift up or help weak, or immature, believers so they can grow in their knowledge and faith. It's having that selfless attitude that says, "Let me stop and help you so we can both finish the race."

We could all learn from what Gomez did. Wouldn't you agree? And then do well to remember that winning doesn't always mean being at the top of the podium but doing the right thing. Robert later said, "I’m not a special person... I really hope that people see it as something that everyone should do." And I couldn't agree more. Helping others is something everyone, especially Christians, should do. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for those people who are willing to forego immediate rewards for eternal ones. May each one of us be an example to others of what it means to be a Christian and to put aside our wants and desires to pursue yours. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Brother - NEEDTOBREATHE

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

https://bangordailynews.com/2017/08/06/sports/road-racing-sports/a-selfless-act-maine-man-helps-competitor-across-finish-line-at-beach-to-beacon-10k/

Follow me

"Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do." Philippians 3:17

On August 1, Andy Llewellyn of Chellaston, England was enjoying his run when he felt what he described as an "almighty whack" against the back of his head. It turns out Andy was attacked by a hawk with a wingspan about four feet long who had dug its talons into the top of his skull. Despite his pain and the blood running down his face, the 44-year-old composed himself and ran back home. In fact, he ran back so fast that he managed a 5K PR saying, "I decided to just run home and get it looked at, but the best thing is I managed to beat my personal best whilst doing that. So really the bird did me a favour.” He sure kept a great attitude didn't he?

And keeping a great, or Christ-like, attitude is exactly what Paul urged us to do when he wrote, "Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters... " You see, while Paul most certainly experienced trials of many kinds where he could have lost his joy, (he had been beaten, flogged, imprisoned and persecuted for his beliefs) he never did and he never wavered in his devotion and love for the Lord. In fact, Paul's life imitated that of Jesus' so closely that he could have easily said, "if you want to grow more like Christ and reflect his great attitude, mimic me." 

You know, it was quite a testimony to Paul's character that he could tell people to live as he did and share in his mind-set, wasn't it? I wonder.. could you and I do the same? And what kind of attitude would a new follower have if they followed us? 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the saints who have gone before us to serve as examples of keeping a Christ-like attitude in the midst of life's disruptions, frustrations and difficulties. May we meditate on their words and the words of the Bible that we, too, might develop a walk so close with Jesus that we could confidently tell others to follow our example to grow closer to Christ. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Christ is enough - Hillside
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fZ-tBR7LJ0

https://www.runnersworld.com/general-interest/this-dude-was-attacked-by-a-hawk-on-his-run

A sincere friend

"Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy." Proverbs 27:6

I have had the blessing of joining one of my dearest and most trusted friends for a weekly walk or run for several years. And if you're fortunate enough to have a person like this in your life too, you know you can count on them to always tell you the truth... even when that's the last thing you want to hear. Which was exactly the case when, midway through our morning stroll, my friend lovingly told me that I might not be handling a certain situation the way Jesus would. Were his words true? Yes. Did it sting to hear them? Absolutely. But they were "better than many kisses from an enemy" because they caused me to reexamine my heart. 

You see, words "from a sincere friend" will sometimes wound or hurt us, convicting words most always will. But a true "friend" would rather hurt us with their words than allow us to continue doing anything contrary to God's will. In other words, a "sincere friend" will kindly say whatever is necessary to keep us from sinning. An insincere friend, on the other hand, will tell us exactly what we want to hear and send us on our way to ruin. That insincere friend, then, is no better that an "enemy". Wouldn't you agree?

So when it comes to choosing your friends, consider the words of Robert Hall, an English Clergyman, who wisely said, "A friend should be one in whose understanding and virtue we can equally confide, and whose opinion we can value at once for its justness and its sincerity."

Heavenly Father, thank you for those people in our lives, those sincere friends, who love us so much that they would rather hurt us into heaven than please us straight to hell. May we be sure to thank those friends for their honesty and repay the favor by being that sincere friend right back. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Selah - Just a closer walk

https://youtu.be/k557ucneBi4

Why

"As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:9

"I never ask God ‘why.’ I just thank Him and I never take any day for granted. If you sit there and ask ‘why,’ you’re going to drive yourself nuts.” Those were the words spoken by Michael Bigogno who, after battling to recover from a brain injury that nearly left him dead (doctors gave him a 10 percent chance of survival), crossed the finish line of the IRONMAN Lake Placid on July 23. Throughout his long recovery which stemmed from a skateboarding accident in 2012, this Eureka, Missouri man displayed a faith we would all do well to emulate-trusting God so much that the "why" didn't matter. 

Have you ever noticed, though, that when bad things happen the first thing most of us want God to do is tell us "why"? But the Bible is very clear that we weren't created to know or understand everything saying, "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." So while we may never know "why" bad things happen to us this side of heaven, we can rest assured that God does and will be with us as we go through these trials. 

So may we, like Michael, never ask God "why" but choose to trust his plan for our lives instead. And then let us then thank him for the promise given to us in Deuteronomy 33:6, "for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

Heavenly Father, thank you for promising to be with us through the tests and trials of life. Lord, help us to trust your plan especially when we don't understand the "why" part of it and to never take one day for granted. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Lauren Daigle - Trust in you

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qv-SXz_exKE

https://www.runnersworld.com/general-interest/after-a-nearly-fatal-brain-injury-one-athletes-redemption-with-an-ironman

Let ego go

"Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone wants to become my follower, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me." Matthew 16:24 NET

In trail and ultra racing, it is rare for two people to tie for a win. So can you imagine the surprise at the finish line of the 2017 Bighorn Trail 100 in June when four runners crossed the finish line holding hands for an unprecedented four-way tie? But that's exactly what happened. Twelve hours of a torrential downpour and other difficult circumstances throughout the race had brought these men together at different points and, as they headed to the finish, no one rushed to be first. One of the runners later said, "It is really a testament to the type of people who do these ultramarathons, that four of us could set our egos aside and help each other get to the finish line." 

And while the willingness of these runners to set their "egos aside" is certainly witness to their character, the Bible tells us that our willingness to set our "egos aside" reveals how closely we are walking with Christ. You see, ego, as defined, is a person's sense of self-importance-and the more a person sees themselves as important, the less willing and able they are to discern and do God's will. Which is why Jesus clearly tells us, "If anyone wants to become my follower, he must deny himself". In other words, to be a true follower of Christ, we must forever put to death the words, "my will be done" and replace them with the words "Thy will be done." 

S. Truett Cathy, a Christian businessman who founded the fast food chain Chick-fil-A, was known to be a very humble leader and had this to say about ego, "You know what ego stands for? Edging God Out!" So may we be careful to deny ourselves and check our ego at the door each and every day that nothing would hinder our walk with Christ. 

Heavenly Father, thank you loving us so much that you would allow us to follow you if we would only lay down our fleshly wants and desires to do so. Help us to realize that everything-every talent, every penny, every possession and our very existence- comes from you. And, as such, we have nothing to boast in but your blessings in our life. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

I surrender - All sons and daughters

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7j2IRgLYQ4o

http://trailrunnermag.com/people/news/bighorn-trail-run-100-ends-four-way-tie-memorable-mud-fest.html