Midweek Motivation Training through Trying Times

Hello runner friends! Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series  

 MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog of which I am blessed to write. Now let's get started by talking about Training through Trying Times!

In all my years of running, I have come to realize that there are two types of runners, those who love running alone and those who do not. And while it might be hard for both groups to stay motivated to consistently train amidst the canceled races, changed schedules and the ever-changing rules of how close we can be to one another or how many people can even be in our running groups, one thing is certain... runners have an indomitable spirit and are experts at taking lemons and making them into lemonade. 🍋🍋🍋 

And while I know many of you may balk at the idea of running solo, it may be your only option for the next few weeks. So to inspire you to put a smile on your face and try it (whether it's your only option or not), I want to give you a few great reasons why venturing out alone can make you a better and mentally stronger runner. And for all you solo runners like me who already understand the many ways running by ourselves can serve to make us better, how about reading them anyway and shouting out, "Yep. That one's true. And that one. And that one!" and then encouraging your running buddies that love company to get out there for some solo running. So here we go! Here a just a few of the many benefits of hitting the road or trails alone:

• There's no pressure to meet up with someone at a certain time or a certain place. This is something that might even be impossible right now to coordinate if you work from home and your running buddies don't or vice versa. Running solo will allow you to find a new routine that fits into your new schedule. 

• Over time you'll develop amazing mental fortitude, something you'll need to run longer distances, to stay committed during times of injury and to press on in the midst of pain and fatigue. You see when you run alone, you don't have a running buddy to give you support and encourage you to press on when it gets hard or when your legs feel like lead and your mind tells you to stop. Running alone is where the rubber meets the road and you alone get to decide whether you will muster up the mental strength to keep going or give up. And you can be sure that each time you resist those voices telling you to quit, you've achieved a personal victory, the benefits of which will spill over into other areas of your life.  

• You can totally disconnect from the world. If you're like most runners, you spend the majority of your waking hours associating with people. That could be your family, your coworkers or your friends through one-on-one contact, email, phone, videoconferencing or social media. Giving yourself one hour to get away from it all can allow you to take a deep breath and relax. It will give you 60 minutes to just live in the moment and relish your blessings. And don’t we all need that??

• You can allow your feet to be your guide. You get to make the decisions. In a world where you might be limited to what choices are yours to make, running alone gives you the power to make all the decisions (for a while at least). Feel like going left? Then go left! Feel like slowing down? Then slow down! You have the power to choose! And doesn't everyone need that every once in a while?

• You'll renew your commitment to running. By running solo, you're saying "I am a runner. I don't need a reason to train. I don't need a group to train with and I don't need a race to train for. I run for the joy of it and for what it does to make me healthy physically, spiritually and emotionally." 

• You'll grow as a person and never feel more alive. For real! You may have run a trail or road 100 times with a group but you will see it with more clarity when you run alone. The chirping of the birds will be louder, the movement of the wind more distinct, the rustling of the leaves crisper and the clouds and sky will appear as works of art. You will see, hear, feel and experience things at a heightened level! 

• You will learn things about yourself. As you run alone and face struggles, negative thoughts and pain, you will have to look for answers within yourself rather than seeking the advice from your running partner(s). You will discover what your strengths and your weaknesses are and have no option but to address them if you want to grow as a runner and a person. Running alone can definitely lead to some big life changes. So be ready!

• And finally...  you can go at your own pace. You can let the way you feel that day dictate what type of workout you will have and how far you will run. Once again, you will have the choice to do what you feel you need to do. And face it, there are days when we need a longer run simply because life's challenges (especially at this time) become overwhelming. And while we may not be able to run from our problems, the time spent alone can usually allow us to come up with some pretty good solutions to those problems or make us realize they weren't really problems at all. 

And on a final note, while you may long for the days when you can run with a group of friends again, I do hope your solo runs will leave you saying, "You know, that wasn't so bad. I'm actually grateful for those times when I had no choice but to run alone." And you know, at the end of the day, if you have placed your trust in Jesus you never really run alone anyway. Isn't that a comforting thought? So be encouraged, be refreshed and get out there and get in your run! Spring is calling!! 😉

Happy Running!!!

Joshua 1:9
Another in the fire

Knock it off

"We should think about others and not about ourselves." 1 Corinthians 10:24 CEV

In an article published by The New York Times on Monday, Jen A. Miller wrote, "Despite all that we know (and don’t know) about Covid-19, we know that with gyms closed, running is becoming increasingly popular right now. And for everyone who is running in these difficult times: Most of us are running responsibly, but some are not. Crowds of people disregarding social distancing rules have been so bad in places like the 606 Trail in Chicago, Runyon Canyon Park in California and my beloved Valley Forge National Historic Park that all of these places are now closed. Do you want to be in a position where your best option to run a marathon is on a balcony? Then knock it off."

And you know what? I couldn't agree with her more. I have personally never seen a time in which runners, and people in general, have displayed such a total lack of respect for the health and welfare of those around them. I mean, not only is disregarding the 6 foot rule of safe social distancing dangerous for everyone involved but it's actually a sin. How so you might ask? Because disobeying those in authority (who have put forth this regulation) goes against God's will as does thinking more about yourself than others. And just like with any sin you and I commit there are consequences both to ourselves and to others. So yes, knock it off!

And while we should always do our very best to put others first and to abide by the laws and regulations those in authority have issued, it's of life-saving importance at this time as we try to stop the spread of COVID-19. So set the example my friend. Treat others with kindness, follow the rules and urge all those you know to do the same. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us the Word that clearly shows us how we are to treat others. Lord, help us to imitate Jesus that we might be kind, loving and patient during this time. Help us to think about the needs and feelings of others above our own that we might be salt and light to the lost. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!! 

Lighthouse - Anthem Lights

Best change of plans

"And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28 BSB

After breaking down and finally going to the chiropractor for several adjustments, I was running faster and better than ever and was more than ready (or so I thought) to run the Social-Distancing Virtual Marathon we had planned Saturday. And as I made "my plans" that morning to finish the race in about four hours, I now realize the Lord was probably laughing. You see, while the first 13.1 miles went exactly according to "my plan," I felt a sharp pain in my back and hip soon afterwards that ruined it. But you know what? God's plan was so much better than “my plan!” You see, after being forced to slow down in an attempt to just complete the 26.2 miles around the town’s track, my dear friend, Ashley, showed up ‘unexpectedly’ to run a few laps (6ft apart of course). And she not only kept me company and cheered me on until it became too painful to continue but then walked the last seven miles with me away from the track. And let me tell you... Ashley and I had so much fun laughing in the rain, exploring the back roads, checking out all the signs of spring and enjoying the laid back pace that I was, once again, truly grateful for God’s change of plans. 

And you know, if you and I are honest, we would all admit to making "plans" that didn't go as planned. But if you're a follower of Jesus Christ, I bet you can't think of even one time when your failed plans were better than God's. I know I can't. And honestly if I hadn't come to realize this through the many times the Lord has proven it to be true, I would probably have been upset at the sudden change of plans over the weekend. But I wasn't! I was excited to see what God was going to do instead. And He didn't fail to keep His promise. He never does. 

So during this time when the coronavirus is changing the plans of everyone in the world, take heart in knowing that God works “all things together for the good of those who love Him.” And while you and I may not see it or understand it right now, you can be sure we will one day. Find comfort in that my friend and trust Him. His plans are always better than ours. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for proving over and over that You can be trusted. Since the beginning of time, You have never not kept a promise. And the Word says that You are the same yesterday, today and forever. Help us to truly understand that Lord that we would have complete peace in a time of turmoil and surrender our plans to Yours in hopeful expectation of how much better they will be. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

You can be trusted - Meredith Andrews

We cannot be naive

"For the waywardness of the naive will kill them, And the complacency of fools will destroy them.'" Proverbs 1:32

After Daryl Doblados, a healthy 29-year-old runner with no underlying health conditions was taken to the hospital by ambulance upon having trouble breathing due to contracting the coronavirus, he took to social media to share his experience and warn other young people not to be naive about it. Daryl, who was healthy enough to run a half marathon just two weeks ago, is now at home self-isolating and says, “to everyone especially the low risk/healthy groups, please understand that you still have a high risk of being infected and even a mild case can still be fatal even if the recovery rate is high.” 

And you know as this story shows, many people both young and old are choosing to remain naive and ignore the facts about COVID-19 that are known to be true-something that could literally kill them. Unfortunately the same is true for those people who choose to reject God's wisdom and guidance so they can continue in their rebellious ways and lifestyles. By choosing to ignore the facts, or things that have been proven true in the Word, they will literally reap the consequences of their choice which is namely death and destruction. 

Thankfully though, there's always hope for the person who becomes infected with coronavirus, whether it happened due to their reckless behavior or otherwise, just as there's always hope for the person who chooses to follow Christ. No matter how long or how far they have strayed, the Father will always welcome them home! Is that great news or what?

Heavenly Father, thank You for being the God of second, third and one-thousandth chances. If there is someone reading this who has been running from You, I pray today is the day they stop and accept You as their Savior. Lord, help us to see how fleeting and unpredictable life is that we wouldn't waste even one moment of it doing anything that would jeopardize our eternal future with You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Take me back - Cochren & Co

We have no control over our plans

"Look here, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we are going to a certain town and will stay there a year. We will do business there and make a profit.” How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone. What you ought to say is, “If the Lord wants us to, we will live and do this or that.'" James 4:13-15 NLT

After hearing the news earlier this week that the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo would be postponed for a year and receiving yet another "We regret to inform you that the race you have registered for has been postponed for another date..." email, I laughed. Not at the situation of course-but at the realization that the world is still confident their plans will come to pass. I mean have we not learned through the COVID-19 pandemic that we are literally not in control of anything? Sports event after sports event has been canceled. Businesses have been forced to shut down. Schools are closed. People are being laid off and our world is in a state of utter confusion and uncertainty. Yet we continue to presume our plans will work out as we intend them to. 

And you know, when it comes to making plans or saying, "today or tomorrow" we will do this or we will do that, the Bible is very clear that you and I don't even know what the current day will bring much less the next day or the next, something every one of us has come to understand to be truth since we first heard of the coronavirus. Knowing that then, wouldn't it be prudent for all of us to acknowledge the sovereignty of God by saying, "If the Lord wants to, we will live and do this or that." Of course!

So when making any plans for the future, may you and I accept, embrace and admit the fact that God is in complete control that He might receive the glory due only to Him. After all, you and I truly have no control in making any of our plans a reality. Only God does. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that You control all things and that all things exist and occur only because You have willed them. Help us to see how big you are Lord and how small we are that we would surrender our every plan to You and confess our need for You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Holy Water - We the Kingdom

His love never fails

"With wisdom he made the sky. God’s love never fails. The Lord stretched the earth over the ocean. God’s love never fails. He made the bright lights in the sky. God’s love never fails. He lets the sun rule each day. God’s love never fails. He lets the moon and the stars rule each night. God’s love never fails." Psalm 136:5-9 CEV

In an article published recently regarding all the changes the coronavirus has forced the world to make, runner Rachel Tavel wrote, With the rapid rise of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the United States, we have been called upon to physically distance ourselves from one another. But despite so many changes to our daily routines, there is one thing that has survived all the restrictions and remains a welcome and necessary constant throughout this uncertain time: running. Runners everywhere can take a deep breath (as long as we stay 6 feet away from others). Even during a destabilizing and stressful global pandemic when we are instructed not to leave our homes, we can still run. And because we can run, we will get through this.

Thankfully though, there is something else that is constant and so much better than running that remains... God's love for us. In fact the psalmist declared it over and over again saying, "With wisdom he made the sky. God's love never fails. The Lord stretched the earth over the ocean. God's love never fails. He made the bright lights in the sky. God's love never fails. He lets the sun rule each day. God’s love never fails. He lets the moon and the stars rule each night. God's love never fails." Do you think the psalmist was trying to tell us something? Of course! He was telling us that God's love for us never ever EVER fails! And this is most certainly a message you and I need to hear now more than ever. 

So if you're wondering whether God loves you or even cares about what you are going through during this time, take heart my friend. He does! He proves it every morning when He causes the sun to rise and every evening when He sets out the stars. And because of this unfailing love, you can be sure we will get through this.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that Your love for us is unconditional, never-changing and never-failing. What comfort that brings to us Lord. May we be so grateful for this love that we share the Good News with every person You place in our path, especially in this time when people so need to need to know they are loved. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Remind me - Blanca

God intends it for good

"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." Genesis 50:20 NIV

Upon hearing the news that her beloved dog had cancer over the weekend my 14-year-old daughter, Hope, was visibly upset. Not only had her life (and the lives of everyone else) been turned upside down by the coronavirus, her faithful companion, Pookie, who had been with her since we had rescued him more than a decade ago and was making it easier for her to be homebound, was dying. "Why Mom? Why now???" She pleaded with me trying as hard as she could to fight back tears. "I don't know honey," I replied struggling to hold back tears myself. "But I do know this. There couldn't have been a better time for him to get sick. As bad as this coronavirus is, it will allow you to stay home and comfort him for however many days he has left and to be with him when he passes."

And while I know that may bring little consolation to Hope now, I pray that one day she will look back and smile at the way God brought good out of a bad situation. Just as I pray that every believer, especially those who come to know Jesus because of this virus, will. But that's what God does! He takes those things the enemy intends to harm us with and uses them "for good." I mean just look around at all the good that is happening already! Families are growing closer. People are slowing down to appreciate life. God's body of believers is becoming more united and the lost are being saved. 

So if this time of confusion and chaos has you feeling anxious, take heart my friend. Although you may not see it now, He is working this situation out for our good and for His glory... something "God intended" to do long before you and I were ever born. He knows what He is doing. Trust Him. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that Your ways are not our ways and that You are the master at bringing beauty from ashes. Help us to trust You during this time Lord knowing that the battle belongs to You and You WILL be victorious over the enemy. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus.  Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

See a victory - Elevation Worship

Sing to the Lord

"Oh sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth!" Psalm 96:1 ESV

"I heard you singing as you ran by early this morning," the clerk at our local hardware store said as my fellow co-worker and I stepped up to the counter to pay for what we were afraid might be the last bottle of antibacterial cleaner in our county. "Wow! I must have been singing louder than I thought," I said laughing. "Well..... we could definitely hear you," she replied with a grin on her face and an exaggerated eye roll. "I'm just glad I could make you smile," came my reply. “In light of the craziness and sadness of the coronavirus, there are still lots of reasons to smile and sing." 

And you know what? It's true. Our God has given us lots of reasons to smile and sing his praise--especially for the peace that surpasses all understanding. I mean, as you and I look around at the chaos and confusion in the world, we have every reason to be afraid right? But we aren't! On the contrary. Those people who have placed their trust in Jesus Christ are not only experiencing a calmness and tranquility that is beyond all comprehension but are completely content in the knowledge that God is in control and working all things out for our good and for His glory. 

So sing to the Lord the praises He is due my friend. But don't stop there! Declare his marvelous deeds among the people as well, that the lost might come to know Him and be saved. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the many things You have given us. Thank You for peace in the midst of turbulence and the hope we have knowing You can be trusted. Give us hearts that sing Your praises Lord, lips that proclaim your wonderful works and feet that send us out into the missions field. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Sing to the Lord - Pat Barrett

Be joyful in hope

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." Romans 12:12 NIV

In an article titled Why marathon training is never wasted, ultra runner and sub 2:30 marathon runner, Robbie Britton, said, "Marathon training can make you extremely fit, whereas the race itself can be quite destructive and leave a runner needing time off for recovery. So a marathon training block without the race at the end will leave any athlete in a really strong position." He went on to say that having a spring race canceled or postponed might be disappointing at first but in the long run it might just produce a number of fall PBs (Personal Bests). "It’s a fantastic foundation on which a strong autumn marathon could be built." How's that for a reason to remain joyful?

And you know, in this time of uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 virus, millions of people will be finding it hard to remain joyful... and with good reason. You see, many individuals have put their hope in the things of this world--their home, their cars, their stock market accounts, their hobbies, etc.--things that are seemingly changing by the minute causing their emotions to change as well. But those who have put their hope in Jesus--who was the same yesterday, today and forever--can remain joyful even when going through the most uncertain of times because they know the hope they have placed in their eternal future is secure. God never changes and neither do His promises!

So if you're feeling disappointed, worried or even hopeless today, take heart my friend. This world is not all there is. This situation won't last forever. And our lives are never wasted when we give them to Jesus.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the hope we have that can never be shaken, changed or taken away. Cause us to remember this Lord every time we are tempted to give in to fear or sadness over the events taking place in our world today. And please remind us that staying joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer will not only serve to make us cheerful but will have an impact on all those around us. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

I have this hope - Tenth Avenue North

MIDWEEK MOTIVATION Reasons to smile

Hello runner friends! Welcome to the first  

 MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog! As stated, these weekly posts are intended to help you Train with Intention, Run with Joy and Press On to the finish line with a smile on your face. And what better way to start than by listing just a few of the many reasons training with intention should include putting a smile on our faces... 

Because smiling has been proven to help reduce pain! 

Did you now that those 'feel good' endorphins that are created when you and I run are also created when we smile? Science says that when endorphins are released into our bodies, they interact with receptors in the brain to lessen our perception of pain. That means a smile acts as a natural pain killer. How's that for a reason to smile???

Because a smiling person attracts others!!! 

That means you won't have to run alone so much. People will want to run with you and the time and training will go by so much faster! Not only that, when you smile, it makes other people smile and that makes for a lot of endorphins!! That means by simply smiling when you're out running, you are not only being intentional in your training but you are performing a public service! Yay you!!!!! And guess what? Smiling at non-runners on your jog will make a lot of other people happy too!!

Because smiling causes joy to well up inside us!

This joy, or feeling of great happiness, helps you take your mind off your workout and think about your blessings instead. If you don't think that's true, try smiling when negative thoughts creep into your brain and replace them with positive, joyful ones. For instance, when your mind says things like, "You're so slow today" or "Everything hurts. Why don't you just stop?" Smile and say back, "Yes. But I'm moving forward!" and "I'll stop when I'm done. I can do this!" 

Because runners who smile use less oxygen!

It's true! Researchers at Ulster University and Swansea University asked a group of 24 runners to wear a breathing mask to measure oxygen consumption and then complete four six-minute running blocks on a treadmill while smiling or frowning. The study, which was recently published in Psychology of Sport and Exercise, found that runners who smiled used less oxygen, ran more economically and had a lower perceived rate of exertion than those who frowned and those in the control group.

Because Eliud does!

Eliud Kipchoge, who most recently set a new record at the Berlin Marathon and ran a 2:00:25 marathon under Nike's Breaking2 project, is known for his smile and says smiling allows him to relax and work through the pain... proving that smiling while running helps a person run more efficiently. And face it, while most of us will never be an elite runner, we can still smile like one right?

Because there are always fall races!
If you're one of the thousands of runners who had their spring race cancelled or postponed due to COVID-19, SMILE!! God willing, there will be some summer races and a lot of fall ones! And the extra time you'll have to train might just lead to a PR that will give you bragging rights!

And on a final note, if you think you have nothing to smile about, consider this... each and every day is a gift. And you, my friend, had the blessing of waking up today to receive it. Be encouraged and stay joyful! Because smiling truly makes you run better. 😉

Happy Running!!!

Psalm 118:24

Put aside selfish ambition

"For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice." James 3:16 NIV

Mark Remy, AKA the Dumb Runner, recently published an article describing a local man's reaction to learning that the race he had expected to run last weekend had been canceled. Navin Johnson, 25, was checking his email over breakfast when he saw the announcement from the race, the Marie Half-Marathon. Organizers cited the coronavirus outbreak in explaining its decision to cancel the event, noting that “it was not a decision we made lightly, but the health and safety of our community is paramount.” Johnson, reading that part out loud, rolled his eyes. “Oh come on!” he said. “Seriously? You’ve got to be kidding me. I’ve run this race the past three years! They’re gonna ruin my streak!” He also noted that he had really been looking forward to the race. “This is so stupid,” he said.

Sadly it's not only Navin who’s voicing this type of self-centered, unmindful and insensitive reaction to the cancellations of many races around the country. Lots of runners are. But this type of disorderly or confused and chaotic thinking is the mindset people with "selfish ambition" have. And while their thought process clearly makes no sense to us--especially when you and I consider the possibility and ramifications of spreading the virus in the midst of such a large event--it makes total sense to them as they are so concerned about their own interests and goals that they are oblivious to the welfare of others. 

So knowing how destructive selfish ambition can be in our walk with God and to our witness, let us make it our daily goal to bring Him glory by putting others first. It's only then that you and I will be following the example of Christ who always considered the needs of others before His own. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that trials reveal our true character. Help us to surrender our will daily that we might become more and more like Jesus, thinking and behaving in ways that show the world we are Your children. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus, Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

What love looks like - Elle Limebear

Go out to help

“Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness.” Matthew 9:35 NIV

On March 11, Pro-runner Rebecca Mehra tweeted , I went to the grocery store this afternoon. As I was walking in I heard a woman yell to me from her car. I walked over and found an elderly woman and her husband. She cracked her window open a bit more, and explained to me nearly in tears that they are afraid to go in the store. Afraid to get sick as they are in their 80s and hear that the novel coronavirus is affecting older people disproportionately. And that they don’t have family around to help them out. Through the crack in the window she handed me a $100 bill and a grocery list, and asked if I would be willing to buy her groceries. I bought the groceries and placed them in her trunk, and gave her back the change. She told me she had been sitting in the car for nearly 45 min before I had arrived, waiting to ask the right person for help.

And you know, as the fear of contracting COVID-19 lingers, more and more people, especially the elderly and those with compromised immune systems, will be looking for that ‘right person’ to help them too. And just who is that ‘right person’ you might ask? You and me of course! And every other believer who should be using this opportunity to be like Jesus and go out into our “towns and villages” to assist those in need. And while you and I might not be able to heal “disease and sickness” as Jesus did, we can preach the "good news of the kingdom" that will provide the hope so many people are desperately searching for. 

So what are you waiting for my friend? Don’t wait for an opportunity to do good to come to you. Get out there and find one! You can be sure there will be many. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for being a God who comes out to meet us. Help us to follow that example and be people who constantly search for occasions to be Your hands and feet. Put to rest our fears Lord and give us an urgent willingness to serve others that we might lead them to the foot of the Cross by our actions and our testimonies. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Love moved first - Casting Crowns

No need to fear bad news

"They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord." Psalm 112:7 NIV

When the World Health Organization (WHO) officially declared the COVID-19 virus to be a pandemic on March 11, runners braced for the worst. And sure enough, "bad news" upon "bad news" followed on March 12 as race after race issued cancellations with more looking to make the call in the next 24-48 hours. Sadly, the Coronavirus even lead to the Boston Marathon’s only postponement in the 124 year history of its’ race. And while this in itself caused more than a few runners to be anxious, the media's constant coverage, exaggerated statements and untrue reports have caused even more people to be in a state of downright fear.

But you know what? There's no need for any of us who have placed our total and complete trust in the Lord to fear "bad news" of any kind. In fact, in Isaiah 41:10, God said, "Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand." And you can be sure that promise is still true today my friend. God is still with us. He will still strengthen us. He will still help us. And He will still hold us up in victory over every situation.

So if you're feeling heavyhearted with disappointment or weighed down with worry over all the things going on in the world today, won't you let it go? Lay those burdensome emotions down at the feet of Jesus and remember that God is still on the throne and He is still in control.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that You are sovereign over every situation. We ask that you refresh our spirits, remove our fears and remind us that it's in times like these the lost will be looking for hope. The hope that we know is only found in You. Knowing that, help us to be bold in our witness and ever so loving in our approach that we might lead others to the foot of the Cross. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

I’m gonna let it go - Jason Gray

Do not waste another moment

"And immediately he began preaching about Jesus in the synagogues, saying, “He is indeed the Son of God!'" Acts 9:20 NLT

While everyone participating in the overnight race I was blessed to direct Saturday lost an hour of time due to the Daylight Savings Time change, including me, we also lost a whole nights sleep—something I was keenly aware of after finally crawling into bed Sunday afternoon so tired that I could barely keep my eyes open—which led me to consider how none of us can ever make up for one hour or lost sleep, just as none of us can ever make up for the time we lost or wasted living in sin or dealing with the consequences of having done so. But thankfully we can all make the most of every moment we have left by making the decision to follow Christ right now, living a life surrendered and sold-out in service to Him.

And the greatest example we have to follow of a life totally transformed like this is the life of Paul. The Bible tells us that he spent a good part of his life persecuting Christians with a vengeance—a lifestyle he would have continued in had he not met Jesus on the road to Damascus. This was a meeting so life-changing that Paul, unwilling afterwards to waste even one more moment, “immediately” renounced his old life "and began preaching about Jesus in the synagogues, saying, “He is indeed the Son of God!'" And because of his decision to do so, lived his best life and left a legacy of faith and perseverance for us all to follow. 

So if you feel like you've wasted your life up to this point my friend, whether by addiction, disobedience, complacency or any other reason, take heart my friend. The same God who used Paul can use you no matter what you've done. After all, He is the God of second, third and even one-thousandth chances.

Heavenly Father, thank You for loving us when we were unloveable and for pursuing us when we ran from You over and over again. Lord if there’s anyone reading this that wants to make today the day they start a new life, I invite them to pray “Jesus I confess my need for You. I believe You are the Son of God, that You died for my sins and that You were resurrected on the third day. I accept You as Lord of my life and want to live every moment hereafter in service to You. Praise You for this new day.” It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

New Day - Danny Gokey

We are better in pairs

"After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them on ahead of him, two by two, into every town and place where he himself was about to go." Luke 10:1 ESV

After completing more than 43 miles at Saturday night's 12 hour Racing for Daylight Ultra, my dear friend Jim posted this about his friend who ran alongside him all night, "I am so glad that Debbie didn't want to run alone in the dark. She kept me running all night." To which I replied, "I loved watching you two spur one another on! I truly don't believe either of you would have made it that far without one another!" And you know, it's true. Because they stayed together and encouraged one another, they both ran distances farther than they ever had before or had even intended to do that night. How's that for the power of friendship?

And you know, as this story shows, having an encouraging friend come alongside us will always spur us on to do greater things than we would dare to do alone and inspire us to keep going when we are tired. And a fellow believer, you can be sure, will also persuade us to stay faithful in our pursuit to follow Jesus Christ. Which is the very reason the Lord sent out the seventy-two others "two by two" to prepare the towns and places He would later visit. Jesus knew that they would need one another to stay true to the calling He had given them. 

And things certainly haven't changed today. Every one of us needs a Christian friend who will hold us accountable in our Christian walk and motivate us to keep going until the race is done and we have crossed that final finish line. So if you have a friend like that, count your blessings. But if you don't, earnestly seek one out knowing you will be blessed by doing so. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us your Word that clearly gives us the example to follow when it comes to sharing the Gospel and pressing on to the end. Help us to remember that we are better together and were meant to share this journey with others. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Brother - Need to Breathe

Safeguard wisdom and discretion

"My child, do not let them escape from your sight; safeguard sound wisdom and discretion." Proverbs 3:21 NET

While many races around the country chose to cancel their 2020 events in response to the Coronavirus outbreak, LA Marathon officials made the decision to hold the 35th LA Marathon Sunday hosting more than 20,000 runners on their 26.2 mile course. They did however move swiftly to, they say, "add anti-coronavirus safeguards" such as defering until 2021 any runner traveling from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Italy, South Korea and Iran. They also added hand-sanitizer stations at the race expo, the start line, along the route and at the finish festival. And it seems the safeguards worked to calm any fear the runners might have had as the race launched precisely at 6:30 a.m. with the normal amount of runners participating.

And you know, when it comes to taking measures to protect ourselves, the Bible tell us to safeguard "sound wisdom and discretion" so fiercely that we should not even let them escape from our sight. And why are we given such an extreme warning? Because sound wisdom gives us insight and instruction to apply God's truths to every situation and discretion allows us to recognize right from wrong and truth from error so we have the ability to make wise and biblical choices. As you can see then, these priceless gifts are crucial in keeping us from going astray and must be guarded closely.

So knowing that our sound wisdom and discretion is acquired through our knowledge of the Word, let us take every opportunity to read and study the Bible so we can apply it to our lives. Doing so will not only shield us from harm and destruction physically and spiritually but will protect our witness and our ability to win others to the foot of the Cross. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us of the importance of guarding the gift of sound wisdom and discretion. Help us to grasp the importance of this that we might hold to it so tightly that it would never leave our grasp. Give us an unquenchable hunger and desire to read your Word Lord that we would grow in both of these areas. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

God I look to You - Jenn Johnson

Be united in one purpose

"All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had." Acts 4:32 NIV

On Saturday, March 7, I had the blessing of being the Race Director for the Racing for Daylight 12 Hour Ultra Event in Waynesville, MO where well over 100 athletes ready to run lined up at the start line to hear me shout the words, "On your marks, get set, go!" at precisely 6 p.m. And as I watched the group move onto the course I had to fight back tears at the thought of how this race, now in it's fourth year, which might cost $100 or more somewhere else was still being presented for free! All because the timing people donated their services, sponsors wrote checks to cover the food, individuals brought supplies, and volunteers stepped up to help in shifts throughout the entirety of the race. And because of that, every single dollar that the runners and walkers voluntarily 'donated' to be there went to charity. Is that amazing or what? 

But you know, as amazing as that is, when "believers" are "one in heart and mind" things even more amazing than that can be accomplished. Things you and I couldn't possibly imagine! You see, when followers of Jesus Christ don't view themselves as owners of "their possessions" but merely stewards of them, they are more apt to freely and voluntarily give what they have to meet the needs of others. And they do this in response to the unity brought about by the Holy Spirit working in their lives and in the lives of their fellow believers around them. Amazing right?

So if you're looking for a way to impact the world my friend, enlist the help of other Christians. Unite under a cause and work together to achieve it and you'll soon find that what you could do alone pales in comparison to what you can do with a group of united believers. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that nothing we have is truly ours. Our time, our talents and our resources all come from You. Help us to collectively use all that we have and possess to show Your love to others and in doing so lead them to the foot of the Cross. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

With lifted hands - Ryan Stevenson

God will use our pain

He comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any kind of affliction, through the comfort we ourselves receive from God." 2 Corinthians 1:4 CSB

When Bill Bucklew crossed the finish line of his first marathon in 1999, he declared, “I’m one-and-done; I’m never running another marathon again.” But after being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2012, Bill took up the sport once more to raise money to find a cure (Bill estimates he has raised almost $200,000) and combat his symptoms,  completing his 20th marathon Sunday in Napa Valley. “There are two things that have been most important to me,” the 50-year-old said. “One is the importance of exercise, it has slowed the progression of my disease and helped manage the symptoms, and I want to share that message. Second, I meet so many people through my charitable efforts, and they’re some of my closest friends today. That community is really important and helps me stay engaged and stay positive. Nobody understands your situation like someone who’s in the same situation.”

And you know what? Bill is right. Nobody understands our situation like someone who’s been in our situation. Which means our pain is never wasted when we allow God to use it. You see, the Bible tells us that God "comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any kind of affliction." And we do this by passing on “the comfort we ourselves receive from God." In other words, it’s “through” the care and compassion we receive from the Father that we develop empathy for those around us experiencing the same pain we have experienced that makes us compelled and able to console someone in their suffering. 

So if you're going through a difficult time right now--maybe due to a recent diagnosis, a pending divorce, an unexpected death, or any number of other things--take heart my friend. God will not only comfort you through this time but will redeem your pain by allowing you to be a comfort to someone else one day. 

Heavenly Father, You are the Creator of the universe and yet You personally comfort each and every one of us when we are in need. That love is unfathomable Lord but we thank You. In light of that, help us to embrace our pain as opportunities to experience Your great love and Presence as you comfort us like the good Father you are. Help us to look for ways to extend this same comfort to others that they might come to know You because of our actions. It's in your precious Name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Bring the rain

Make the choice to not give up

"For we wanted to come to you-- I, Paul, more than once-- and yet Satan hindered us." 1 Thessalonians 2:18 NASB

After experiencing what he could only describe as an 'action packed day' Friday, my friend, Ken, hurriedly rushed home to cram all the things he would need for the two races he would be participating in over the weekend into a bag and then hit the road. He was 2.5 hours into the trip, he says, when he received a call from his son asking how far he had gotten. "Instantly, I knew why. In the excitement, I’d neglected to put the bag I’d just packed actually IN the car." Thankfully, though, Ken said he found an Academy Sports Store along the way to buy some essentials but added, "It’s a good thing I was wearing running shoes. I’ll have to use my phone as a “watch.” Hope my hotel has toothpaste. This gets the first race travel snafu out of the way. It won’t be the last. And, hey, I needed shorts that weren’t black." 

And you know, I love the way Ken handled this 'snafu’ or chaotic mess. He remained level-headed and hopeful the situation could be remedied--which it was. Sadly though, many Christians will quit at the first sign of any complication or chaos saying, "Well I guess it's just not God's will that I do... you fill in the blank” rather than press on in the face of adversity, opposition or even travel complications. And while God will most certainly use situations like these to redirect us, Satan, as Paul knew, will use them to hinder us from doing God's work. 

So before you give up at the first sign of difficulty in any situation, pray for wisdom and strength my friend. And then keep moving forward, determined, intent and resolute on fulfilling the calling God has placed on your life. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that the enemy is always looking for ways to cause us to give up in our pursuit to accomplish the work You have called us to do. Lord please give us the discernment to recognize these supernatural attacks and the mental fortitude and physical power to fight them. It's in your precious Name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

I’m gonna see a victory

Hope deferred

"Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life." Proverbs 13:12 NIV

Nearing the end of a long training run in preparation for her first 100 mile race, my friend, Jill, said she felt some discomfort and then woke up the next morning not even able to get out of bed. When the pain didn't go away after a few days of rest, Jill knew there was something wrong--something a test later confirmed. "MRI shows bone marrow edema on my hip bone caused by itty bitty fractures. 2-3 weeks with crutches and 4-6 no running," she wrote, adding, "could be a lot worse." And you know what? Jill's right. It could always be a lot worse. As it stands, she was allowed to defer her entry to the 100-mile fall race and has hope that she will soon be healed. 

And you know, not getting what we want, especially something we have worked very hard for or have prayed for over a long period of time, can be absolutely heartbreaking--so heartbreaking, in fact, that the psalmist says the disappointment literally "makes the heart sick." But it's at these times that you and I would do well to remember that God didn't say "no." He simply said, "not today." Which means there's always hope and a reason to wait patiently, knowing that "a longing fulfilled" will restore and refresh our hearts again. 

So if "hope deferred" has you feeling discouraged, disillusioned or even depressed today, won't you choose to smile and trust God whose timing is always perfect? I sure hope so my friend because our unfulfilled desires and periods of waiting can not only lead us to the richest of encounters with our Savior but strengthen our character in ways that a period of ease never could. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for always working things out for our good. Help us to trust You when we don't understand You and to be patient when it seems like our situation will never change. Use these periods Lord to draw us closer to You and to make us more like You. It's in your precious Name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Soar - Meredith Andrews

Embrace new seasons of life

"For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven. A time to be born and a time to die. A time to plant and a time to harvest." Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 NLT

To say that Desiree Linden, 36, has experienced some running success in her life would be an understatement. She not only represented Team USA in the 2012 and 2016 Olympics but won the 2018 Boston Marathon. Unfortunately for her, though, she just missed making the 2020 Olympic team after placing fourth in the Olympic Marathon Trials on Saturday. Which means, since elite runners typically peak at the age of 35, she most likely won't ever have another opportunity to compete in the Olympics. But Linden isn't dwelling on the results, she said, but looking forward to running the Boston Marathon in seven weeks. "I am really happy that I have something else on the schedule so I can move on." 

And you know, as an aging runner myself who is seeing race times decrease at the seemingly same pace injuries increase, I am keenly aware of how quickly our seasons in life can change. I mean just a few years ago, I was a stay-at-home mom to two amazing children. I am now a working mom with one child in college and another one in high school. But as Solomon wrote, "for everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven. A time to be born and a time to die..." And while it's natural for you and I to mourn a season of our life that has ended or is ending, we would do well to look forward to what's ahead rather than to what's behind. 

So if you find yourself disheartened over entering a new chapter in life, take heart my friend. You are not alone. The same God who was with you when you entered this world is the same God who has walked alongside you through every changing season and will continue to do so until the day He brings you home. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for promising to be with us in every season and stage of our lives. Lord as get older and our seasons change, remind us that we always have a purpose. And that purpose is to serve You by serving others. Help us to remain joyful at every stage of life Lord that others would be drawn to the foot of the Cross because of it. It's in your precious Name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Every season - Nichole Nordeman

We can all qualify

"If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9 NLT

Of the hundreds of thousands of runners who completed a certified marathon in the last two years, only 235 men and 450 women were fast enough to qualify to compete in the Olympic marathon trials that took place on Saturday in Atlanta. And of those 685 runners, only six qualified to represent Team USA at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. As these numbers show, very few people will ever be entitled to run in the Olympics by fulfilling the necessary condition of completing 26.2 miles in an insanely short amount of time.  That means, no matter how much hard work the average runner like you and me puts in to make the Olympic team, we won't do it. We just can't. 

Thankfully though, the same isn't true of salvation. It's an offer open to everyone and it doesn't depend on our individual talents, skills or hard work. You and I will be saved when we simply fulfill the necessary condition to receive salvation which is to "openly declare that Jesus is Lord" and believe in our hearts that "God raised him from the dead." You see, everyone can qualify to spend eternity in heaven by simply making the choice to follow Jesus Christ. 

So if you haven't made the choice to follow Jesus, what are you waiting for? Joining Him in heaven will be the greatest event of all time my friend. But you won't qualify for entry unless you have declared Him as Lord and Savior of your life. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the sacrifice of your Son that qualified us for the forgiveness of sins and eternal salvation by our declaration that Jesus is Lord and our belief that He rose from the dead. Help us to be bold in sharing this Good News with others that they too might qualify for the greatest event of all time. It's in your precious Name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

I choose Jesus - Moriah Peters