Stand up straight

"Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had." Philippians 2:3-5 NLT

If you're like thousands of runners around the world, you work a full-time job that requires you to spend hours sitting at a desk; hours spent slouching (rounded shoulders, head tilted forward, back flexed) over a computer. And while bad posture is not necessarily harmful to you in the short term, Jess Mena D.P.T., C.S.C.S., told Runner's World in a recent article since our bodies need a variety of movements and positions, sitting like that for long periods of time over the course of months or years can lead to structural changes of the spine and muscles, which eventually will cause pain. The worst part though is that bad posture will negatively affect your runs; which is a great reason to make the effort to 'stand up straight' just as your mother told you to. 

And you know, while posture can be defined as the position in which someone holds their body while sitting or standing, it can also be defined as a person's attitude towards something. And for a Christian, no matter what that something in life might be, we "must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had." Which means we are to be selfless, humble and ready to serve others at all times no matter the circumstances. You see, the world is watching our posture. And if we are ever going to influence them to follow Jesus Christ, we must not become complacent (slouching) or worldly in our attitudes. We must make every effort effort to 'stand up straight' and reflect the attitude of our Savior. 

So if you were to judge your spiritual posture today, would you say you're standing tall? Or would you say you're slouching a bit? If you said the latter, I urge you to pray that the Lord would renew your heart and mind that you might once again have the same attitude Jesus had. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that our attitude towards others directly reflects our love for You. Knowing that, help us to seek You first every day through prayer and Bible study that we might continually renew our hearts and minds so that we can be selfless, humble, and ready to serve others in the same way You would. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

More like Jesus

 

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION-Failures are stepping stones

Hello runner friends! 

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series 

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog. Now let's get started by talking about how failing to reach the finish line can actually motivate you to try harder, become better, and set bigger goals for yourself.

But first let's discuss three letters no runner ever wants to see, say, hear or write. Three letters than can make or break a runner depending on what they do in response to having them posted next to their race results... DNF. The dreaded letters that stand for Did Not Finish. But guess what? As bad as those letters may be, they aren't nearly as bad as DNS. Because a Did Not Start means you didn't even try. And that is a far greater tragedy. With that in mind, let's look at four reasons you should celebrate a DNF and how some local runners dealt with the disappointment of not being able to reach the finish line.  

1. The training. Face it. Before you ever stepped up to the start line of your race, you already logged countless hours, days and miles of training. You probably even trained in all kinds of weather and battled chafing, black toenails and blisters. But you kept getting out there anyway! That means you were a ROCKSTAR before you even put your race bib on!! No DNF can ever change that! So celebrate the training you did regardless of how it played out on the racecourse. How many other people do you know set a goal and attempted to reach it? Celebrate what you were able to do!

2. Second chances. Do you know what one of the great things about running is? You can sign up for the same race and give it a another go. One failed attempt doesn't mean it's over! It just means what you did didn't work or that it just wasn't your day. Use your DNF as a motivator to really look at everything that contributed to it and change those things you can. Was the weather bad? What can you do to be better prepared for it next time? Did you get blisters? What can you do to change that? Did you flood your mind with negativity? What will you do to keep your joy when that happens again? And remember, there are always going to be things that are totally out of your control. Grant yourself some grace and forgiveness over those things and move on. Sign up for the race you weren't able to finish and use it as your motivation to get back into the saddle. Heck, why wait that long? Find another race right now and give it another shot! Celebrate that you're going to try again!

3. You had the courage to start. And I'm not just talking about starting the race. Celebrate the fact that you had the quality of mind and spirit that enabled you to face the difficulties, pain and uncertainties of starting the training. Whether it was a half marathon, a full, or even an ultra that you were training for, celebrate the fact that you stepped out of your comfort zone to embark on something you knew would be hard! Pat yourself on the back for being "that crazy running person" people love to talk about but secretly wished they were. That's right. Celebrate that you inspired others to even remotely consider taking up running. 

4. You're left with grit... that is if decide to use your DNF as a stepping stone on the way to your next race rather than a stumbling block that causes you to give up. Do you think Rocky got the eye of the tiger overnight? Do you think he got it from winning? Heck no! Rocky got the eye of the tiger from getting knocked down in the ring and in life over and over again. He got it from looking up at his opponent and making the determination to rise again and again to face that opponent. You see, it's the DNF's in life that give you staying power, resilience and the determination to try as many times as you have to until you finally beat your opponent and claim the prize. Gaining the eye of the tiger is a definite reason to celebrate. You can even play the song as you head back out to the trail to start training again!!

So here we go with the story of Jody Rhoads. This girl has a smile that can light up a room and is the person you always want to run with because of her joyful spirit and constant encouragement. And having joined her on a couple of training runs leading up to her 100 mile race, I knew how bad she wanted to reach that finish line and claim the buckle. Sadly though, Jody received a DNF on her first attempt last weekend. And this is what she posted immediately afterwards "My legs literally stopped working at 46 miles. My husband said, what is wrong with you?!? It's a good thing I was near our crew tent, because it took me 40 mins of tears to walk 300 meters and he finally sent for the car... Finally!?! My partner in crime, Ed Green, went out for another loop! #respect! Non-stop rain for 12 hours made the blister struggle real! Even though I changed socks and relubed after the first loop, it still wasn't enough - #somuchmud! Massive hill climb at the beginning. I've never been so sad and happy at the same time.... First official DNF. (Did Not Finish)  We did the first 46 miles in 12 hours (that includes my stellar walk at the end,) so we made pretty good time until the wheels literally did fall off." But get this, just 48 hours later, this is what Jody said when I asked her how she felt, "How do I feel today??? Robbed.. I'm sure it's Satan kicking me while I'm down... Did I learn a lot - yes!!. I'm just looking at it as everything is a stepping stone to where I need to be. We can do everything right and it still might not end how we want it to.. My mantra... Everything is a stepping stone to where we need to be!" So there we go my friends... everything is a stepping stone to where we need to be. 

Next, check out this comeback story my friend Gary Shaw shared about his first DNF... 

"My first DNF was Prairie Spirit Trail 100. I made it 84 miles in when I got swept for missing the time hack. I was severely depressed but forced a fake smile for a couple of weeks. As soon as registration opened up for the next year's race, I signed up. I thought about that DNF for a solid year. I went back and finished and put on the ugliest cry face in the history of ultrarunning history at the finish line."

And this is what Cindy Rieckhoff said about her recent DNF... 

"The conflicting thoughts that keep going through my head after ending up with a 50K at a race that was "supposed" to be my first 100 mile attempt are interesting. The first thought that filtered through the disappointment that everything didn't come together this time was: "Everything really felt good for getting that 100 going into it, if only..." Then shortly after comes this one: "What the heck Cindy, how many folks really look at 50K as being such a "weak" distance, really is this what is in your head right now?" I don't go into races with a competitive mindset, it's all about the full experience, so a DNF does not feel like a failure to me, but rather just a run that ended where it was meant to end on that given day. It does make me want to come back to chase the "end goal" of finishing the distance, but not with any regrets for not getting it done the first or second or third try." 

But get this, it's not just those big DNF's that can motivate us to become better and press on, sometimes it's the day to day ones as Rachel Bowers explains....

"My story is not a DNF for a race, but a DNF on a casual run that changed my life. I have been running since middle school but in 2007, I found myself at 170lbs, about 30% body fat, and in the midst of depression after having my second miscarriage. I stopped caring and exercising. I did just enough to remain in the Army. I had a Major who took me out for a 3 mile run (to get me back in shape). I couldn't even complete 2 of the 3 miles, I was mentally and physically done. She walked and talked with me the rest of the way. I was embarrassed and disappointed in myself. I used my upcoming deployment as a time to get myself both mentally and physically in shape. I use this story to encourage other Soldiers who tend to struggle with weight."

My friends, isn't it amazing what a DNF can do if you don't let it keep you from trying again and again? It not only changes you and motivates you to press on with a passion that you probably never knew existed but it has the power to inspire those people that are watching you. So choose to view your failures as stepping stones today. Choose to celebrate every start no matter the outcome. But most of all, choose to step out and try things that may end in failure; things like running a half marathon, a marathon or even an ultra marathon. Then determine in your heart that you will choose to continue trying until those dreams become reality. 

Happy Running!!!

Following Jesus is worth the sacrifice

"Going on from there, He saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, mending their nets. Jesus called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed Him." Matthew 4:21-22 BSB

While logging some miles with one of my dearest running friends on Saturday, it was painfully obvious to the both of us that I wasn't nearly as fast as I used to be before taking up ultrarunning several years ago. Thankfully though, Jim, who I used to be able to match step for step, slowed down to my slower speed so we could enjoy several miles of good conversation before he went home and I continued on in preparation for an upcoming 100 mile race. And while I will admit that I sometimes miss the brisk pace I was once able to run, I know it's worth the sacrifice to run long distances. You see, speed and long-distance running don't go together. You have to give up one to get the other. And knowing that the racecourse is a missions field Jesus has called me to, giving up any 'thing' that keeps me from following Him is something I will never regret.

And you know, when it comes to giving up 'things', the Bible tells us that James and John "immediately" left their boat and their father to follow when "Jesus called them." They didn't stop for a moment to think of the things they would be sacrificing or leaving behind like their families, their livelihood and their careers. They only knew the Savior was calling them to come and work alongside Him; to step out into the missions field and become fishers of men. And you can be sure it's a decision they never regretted.

Perhaps you've felt Jesus calling you but you're not quite ready to give up that 'thing' or those 'things' that are holding you back. If that's you, make today the day that you "immediately" give them up and go where God is calling you. I promise that choosing to follow Jesus is a decision that you will never ever regret. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us so much more than we could ever imagine in return for our decision to follow You. Help us to see that You are worth more than anything in this world. Give us a view of eternal things Lord that we might not be focused on the temporary things we can see in this world. Remind us that You are the only 'thing' worth chasing after. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Come to the well

The importance of unified prayer

"I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity" 1 Timothy 2:1-2 NLT

For many years now, the Frog Fitness Group ministry I'm blessed to be a part of has hosted a monthly 3.1 mile race at no charge—appropriately named the FFG Free Donut Run 5k because of the generous sponsors that offer donuts, water and coffee to everyone who participates. And as you can imagine, the community loves these races as much as we do. But what this group loves even more is beginning each and every race with prayer; something we have done since the very first 5k and did again last Saturday morning. And while we stood in our distanced spots rather than joining hands around a prayer circle like we did pre-COVID, each person there seemed to understand the importance of praying together no matter how differently we had to do it. 

And you know, when it comes to praying together as a unified body of believers, the Bible tells us that we are to "pray for all people" asking God to "help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them." And we are also to pray "this way for kings and all who are in authority" whether we agree with their views or not so that the world be more open to receive the Gospel. Just think about it... if our leaders would come to know Jesus and follow Him, how much faster and more effectively would the Good News spread? How much more would our world be influenced to follow Christ if kings followed Him? 

So no matter what your political views might be my friend, never allow them to keep you from praying for those "who are in authority so that we can all live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity." After all, let me remind you... this is not merely a suggestion but a command. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we are to continually pray for all people. Cause us to remember that when Paul wrote the command to pray for those in authority that the persecution of Christians by kings and rulers was a huge threat and yet he knew it was more important to pray for them than to insult or degrade them. Help us to see this truth that we might fervently pray for our leaders. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

When we pray

He comforts us so we can comfort others

"He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us." 2 Corinthians 1:4 NLT

To say I was happy to be coaching runners again would be a total understatement. For many months, the Couch to 5k program that I love to teach was put on hold because of COVID. Thankfully though, with social distancing measures put in place, the classes finally resumed last night. And as I surveyed the runners coming into the gym for the briefing of what to expect from the eight-week program, I couldn't help but smile. Many of these new runners I knew would not be here had they not been accompanied by their friends who had been in some of my previous classes; friends that knew what it felt like to be anxious and apprehensive about starting something new and no doubt comforted them with the words, "You can do this." 

And you know, when it comes to being comforted, the Bible tells us that God "comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others" so that "when they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us." You see, in this world we will have troubles. Being a believer doesn't spare us from them; but being a believer does mean that our Father who loves us with a love that we cannot fathom this side of heaven will come alongside us (many times using people to do it) to console us and ease our feelings of pain, grief, anxiety and distress. And it's this loving comfort we receive that we can then extend to someone else going through the same thing we went through. 

So if you're walking through the valley today, praise the Lord that you are not alone. The God of all comfort is there to give you strength and hope; the same strength and hope that you will one day pass along to someone walking through the same valley. Isn't our God so very good? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the comfort that You give us in our time of need. We praise You for loving us so much. Help us to always remember the way You lifted us up, encouraged us and removed our fears in our time of distress that we might extend that same comfort to someone else. Use us to ease another person's burdens Lord that they might feel your love just as You used people to do the same for us. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

God of all comfort

Monitor your heart health

"You are a bunch of evil snakes, so how can you say anything good? Your words show what is in your hearts." Matthew 12:34 CEV

If you're like many runners, you’ve been tracking your heart rate for a while; that’s nothing new. What is new though, according to Runner's World Magazine, is the advanced technology found in the latest smartwatches that can now monitor a runner's heart via an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) app which records the electrical activity of the heart that is transmitted to the skin. These trackers not only monitor beats per minute but can actually alert us of an irregular heart rhythm and other abnormalities. And considering that more and more young people are suffering from strokes, and more reports of cardiac arrests happen during exercise, it might be a good time to consider upgrading your tracker. After all, every one of us can benefit from monitoring our heart health.

And you know, when it comes to assessing our spiritual heart health, the Bible is clear that you and I can tell if it is good or bad by our speech. In fact, no matter who pious, religious, righteous, or devout we try to act, our words will always show what's in our hearts. That means if our hearts are impure or dirty in any way, it will inevitably pour forth in our speech. Which is the very reason we would do well to exert the same effort we put into tracking our physical heart health into tracking our spiritual heart health. Something we do by regularly asking ourselves, "Do my words lift others up? Do my words speak truth and honor God? Do my words show that I am set apart from the world?"

So check your heart and check it often my friend. By consistently monitoring what comes out of your mouth for any abnormalities that might need to be addressed and addressing them immediately in prayer, you can keep your heart spiritually healthy and your speech pure.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that the impurities in our hearts will pour forth in our speech. Knowing that, help us to assess our spiritual health often that we might ask the Holy Spirit to reveal and fix anything that needs to be fixed before it damages our relationships or our witness for You. Purify our hearts Lord. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Purify my heart

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION-No regrets

 Hello runner friends! 

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series 

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog. Now let's get started by talking about how living life with the intent of having no regrets will motivate you to attempt things most people only dream about. 

So let's look at what regret is first and why it can make for a very hard pillow. Regret, by definition, is a feeling of deep sadness or disappointment about something that a person did or did not do. And these are the feelings that can keep a person up at night with thoughts such as, "I wish I had done this or that" or "Why did I give up so soon?" But guess what? If you're reading this right now, I'm here to tell you that today is a new day and a new opportunity to start living the life you've been dreaming about! The life that will leave you saying, "Man that was quite a ride!"

But before I go any further, I want to share what inspired me to write about regret. Last Friday, a bubbly, vibrant, live-life-to-the-fullest-minded friend of mine was killed in a head-on collision. She was a 40-year-old beautiful mother of four that lived life with no regrets. Her unexpected death was both a reminder of how fragile and fleeting life is and that the things we do today will one day be our legacy. Think about that for a moment. How do you want to be remembered?

And speaking of regrets, legacies and the certainty that each one of us will die one day, let's take a look at the top five regrets hospice nurse, Bronnie Ware, said people had when they faced death and what we can do to avoid having those same regrets.

1. I wish I'd had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me.

"This was the most common regret of all. When people realize that their life is almost over and look back clearly on it, it is easy to see how many dreams have gone unfulfilled. Most people had not honored even a half of their dreams and had to die knowing that it was due to choices they had made, or not made. Health brings a freedom very few realize, until they no longer have it."

What's one dream you have? Completing a marathon or a half? Perhaps it's just getting into shape? Maybe finishing college? What's holding you back? No more excuses! No matter how old you are or how old the dream is, make a list of three things that you must do to see that dream become a reality and then tackle number one. Don't let this be one of your regrets. You have the power to change the course of this! It's up to you to go after that dream!

2. I wish I hadn't worked so hard.

"This came from every male patient that I nursed. They missed their children's youth and their partner's companionship. Women also spoke of this regret, but as most were from an older generation, many of the female patients had not been breadwinners. All of the men I nursed deeply regretted spending so much of their lives on the treadmill of a work existence."

Find balance! Running is always a great thing to take up with your family if you haven't already. No matter how old your children are, training with them for a short or long race will leave you with memories that are far more precious than memories of any day at the office. I've run lots of races with my kids and I wouldn't trade those experiences for any amount of money and I won't hesitate to say that my kids wouldn't either. Listen to me on this... you will never ever ever regret time spent with your family. Especially as you get older and realize just how short life is. 

3. I wish I'd had the courage to express my feelings.

"Many people suppressed their feelings in order to keep peace with others. As a result, they settled for a mediocre existence and never became who they were truly capable of becoming. Many developed illnesses relating to the bitterness and resentment they carried as a result."

Did you know that running can actually give you courage that will spill over into other areas of your life? It's true! It takes courage to join a group for the first time. It takes courage to step up to the start line of your first race and it takes courage to keep running! And each time you conquer a goal, your increased self-esteem and self-awareness go way up! And when that happens, you become bolder to change those things that might cause you to settle for a "mediocre existence." And you know what? I have rarely met a runner who carried bitterness and resentment in their heart? Why? Two reasons... they know negative thoughts affect their performance and so are more apt to find ways to rid themselves of those thoughts and running with a group helps a person sort out and deal with their feelings. There is strength in numbers for sure! And I can tell you from experience that running friends are way better than a counselor and way cheaper!

4. I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends.

"Often they would not truly realize the full benefits of old friends until their dying weeks and it was not always possible to track them down. Many had become so caught up in their own lives that they had let golden friendships slip by over the years. There were many deep regrets about not giving friendships the time and effort that they deserved. Everyone misses their friends when they are dying."

This is what running is all about!!! Runners make time to be with their friends. They know more than most people that true friends are to be valued and treasured. Runners are like family, intertwining their lives together and becoming a much-needed support group. Runners know they need each other and make time to be together and they are friends for life!

5. I wish that I had let myself be happier.

"This is a surprisingly common one. Many did not realize until the end that happiness is a choice. They had stayed stuck in old patterns and habits. The so-called 'comfort' of familiarity overflowed into their emotions, as well as their physical lives. Fear of change had them pretending to others, and to their selves, that they were content, when deep within, they longed to laugh properly and have silliness in their life again."

Want to see what happiness looks like? Check out groups of runners. They are most always smiling. And it's not because running is easy, it's because they are with like-minded individuals that choose to be happy. They choose day after day to exchange the lows of negative emotions and poor health for the highs of endorphins and improved physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. Running increases all those things!! Want to laugh properly and have silliness in your life again? Go run a marathon! I guarantee you will be laughing about the pain, the lost toenails, the dreaded chafing and the fact that you paid to do it and can't wait to do it again. That's what running does! It brings joy into a person's life in so many ways. And do you want to know something funny? I have never ever ever heard anyone say, "I sure regret having completed that marathon." It never happens! But I have heard people say on countless occasions, "I wish I could run" or "I wish I would have run when I had the chance." 

So I leave you with three questions and ask you to answer them keeping in mind that you don't know when the time or day will come when you take your last breath. What's your greatest regret so far? What will you set out to achieve or change before you die? Most importantly, what will you do today to set that change in motion so that you can live intent on having no regrets? Hope to see you at the start line soon!!

Happy Running!!!

Face your fear

"He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?'" Mark 4:39-40 NIV

“Dogs!” I yelled out as I approached each one of the homes on the new route I was running Sunday morning. “Dogs! Dogs!” I repeatedly shouted over and over with my weapon drawn, ready to defend myself in the event of an attack. Fear... many years ago it limited me. I had been the victim of a dog attack that could have been deadly but by the grace of God. For several years to follow that experience, I chose to run one “safe” route, paralyzed by the fear that it would happen again if I ventured out. That’s what fear does. It immobilizes a person and keeps them hiding in their “safe” place. Thankfully though, I eventually learned that having a weapon and calling out my fear gave me the courage to go where the Lord would lead me. So now, rather than cowering and fearing what may or may not be around the next corner, I call out to my fear—ready to face what scares me, confident the Lord has given me what I need to fight it. 

And you know, without a doubt there are many things happening in our world right now that could cause us to be paralyzed by fear. And that’s exactly what the enemy is counting on; because fear will keep us from stepping out of our “safe” zones to share the Good News and speak Truth to a world so desperately in need of hearing it. It will also keep us from extending a hug or handshake to someone who needs to feel the love of Jesus. But guess what? You and I have no need to fear anything when we remember that Jesus has the power to call out the very thing we fear and say “Quiet! Be still!” just as He did to the storm the disciples feared; a storm that no doubt paralyzed them. Yet with two spoken sentences from our Savior, “the wind died down and it was completely calm.”

So if fear has you paralyzed today, I urge you to dig into the Word and rediscover just how big and powerful our God is. After all, if He can rebuke the wind and waves with a simple command, there is nothing He cannot do. So fear not my friend. Step out in faith to do what He is calling you to do right now.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that You are all knowing, all powerful and always beside us. Help us to overcome our fears with the faith that You are in complete control and can change the course of events with a single command. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Peace be still

Drink early and drink often

"This book of instruction must not depart from your mouth; you are to meditate on it day and night so that you may carefully observe everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in whatever you do." Joshua 1:8 CSB

"Drink early and drink often," I said to myself as I set out early Saturday morning for the first of two back to back 20 mile runs I needed to complete over the weekend as part of my training for an upcoming 100-mile race. Knowing the role proper hydration plays in a person's success in running long distances, this is the non-negotiable mantra that I drill into the runners I coach and into myself. You see, while a person might be able to run a short race without sufficient water, dehydration (which occurs when a person loses more fluid than they take in and their body doesn't have enough water and other fluids to carry out its normal functions) over a long run or race will negatively affect a runner's performance and could even lead to death.

And you know, the advice to "drink early and drink often" should be heeded in our spiritual lives as well. You see, for the church to "prosper and succeed" as it should, each individual member (that means us) must read, study, learn and inwardly digest the Word of God. We must make the study of the "book of instruction" our first priority (drink early) and our second to "meditate on it day and night" (drink often) so that we will "carefully observe everything written in it." Think of it this way... each and every believer is a participant in the Christian race and for us to reach the finish line, we must be able to follow the rules and run with endurance; two things we can do only if we are hydrated in the Word. 

So drink early and drink often my friend. Set your alarm clock earlier if you have to but make time for Bible study each morning before the day begins and then vow to think deeply and carefully about what you’ve read throughout the day. You'll be so glad you did. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that being spiritually dehydrated will not only keep us from running the race as we should but could literally cause us to drop out. Give us such an unquenchable thirst for your Word Lord that we would not be satisfied until we continually drink it in. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Thirst - Phil Wickham

Share your testimony

“Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he has redeemed from trouble” Psalm 107:1-2 ESV

Several weeks ago while running a 50k with some of my crazy ultrarunning friends for fun, we discussed some of the newest “must-have" products on the market for long distance running like hydration powders, gels with natural sugars and the newest GPS watches. “I can’t believe the battery life of this GPS watch I recently switched to,” my friend Ed said before giving us a full and detailed review. In fact, Ed’s testimony was so persuasive and genuine - after all, he had acquired firsthand knowledge that obviously excited him - that I decided to purchase one of the watches for myself. And I wasn’t disappointed. It was everything he said it would be. 

And you know, our testimonies, as you can clearly see, have a lot of power in influencing another person’s decision to do something. Just this week, for instance, I had two people tell me they had purchased the shoes I recommended and said it was just what they needed. But it’s my testimony of the goodness of Jesus Christ that I like to share and recommend the most. You see, there is nothing any person needs more in this world than to accept Jesus as their Savior. Which is why each and every person “whom he has redeemed from trouble” (that means you and me) needs to be sharing their story of redemption every chance they get. 

So no matter what your life looked like before Jesus came along and made it new -whether it was good, bad or even downright ugly - “give thanks to the Lord” and “say so!” Make it your mission to share your firsthand knowledge of the goodness of God that someone else might seek Jesus because of your persuasive and genuine testimony.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that many times the best way we can lead others to the foot of the Cross is by our testimony. Help us to be unashamed and bold in sharing how You changed our lives Lord. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Tell Somebody

What it means to be blessed

"Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them. He said: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 5:1-3 NIV

Like thousands of other runners who qualified for the 2020 Boston Marathon only to have the race canceled due to COVID, Sawyers Holt from Pilot Mountain, NC ran it virtually over the weekend. Sawyers said she fought through muscle cramps during a four-mile stretch but was able to finish in front of her parent's home in 3 hours and 55 minutes. Holt voiced appreciation to the large group of supporters who came out, including those who waved and cheered from their homes as she passed and said, "I was pleased and surprised by all the support I received. I was overwhelmed in a good way. I’ve been blessed. This was one of my hardest marathons but it was also one of my best experiences. I’m happy with it.”

And you know, in a day and age when the word 'blessed' is used by people to describe themselves after either receiving something considered good (like a promotion, a new car or a new home) or accomplishing something considered big (like completing a marathon or finishing college), we have lost sight of what it truly means to be blessed. And ironically those things that Jesus said make us blessed have nothing to do with material prosperity or perfect circumstances. Among the many people that Jesus said were blessed were the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, the merciful and the pure in heart; all conditions that cause people to look to God for satisfaction and comfort rather than the things of this world. 

So knowing that we are only truly blessed when our spirit rests in God, we know He is all we ever need and we find joy in the circumstances that draw us closer to Him, would you consider yourself blessed today?

Heavenly Father, thank you for reminding us that the Word’s definition of what it means to be blessed is contrary to the world’s definition of what it means to be blessed. Cause us to seek and take joy in any circumstance that makes us more like You. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Blessings - Laura Story

 

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION-Real results are not instant

Hello runner friends! 

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series 

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog. Now let's get started by talking about how long lasting results don't happen overnight. 

First of all, did you know that there is actually a book titled "Results" that you can get in two days from Amazon Prime? Unfortunately though, those are the only overnight "results" you will ever see. Real results take real time and real effort. And thinking otherwise will only rob you of your motivation to keep trying each day. 

So let's first talk about the 5 types of results someone training for a race most likely wants to see which are also 5 of the top reasons many people begin running in the first place. 

1. Weight Loss - When it comes to seeing real results, in this case lasting results, it's good to remember that slow and steady wins the race. Losing weight too fast can take a toll on your mind and body, making you feel sluggish, drained, and sick. You should aim to lose one to two pounds a week so you’re losing fat rather than water and muscle. And remember... keeping the weight off is a lifetime effort which is exactly why slow progress is the best progress; slow progress helps to ensure that your new habits become comfortable and natural.

2. Increased Endurance Level - This goes without saying but you will not be able to run a marathon overnight. Any race completed is the culmination of many hours, days, weeks (and sometimes months and years) of effort. Start off slow but have a goal in mind-a goal that is large enough to scare you but small enough to be broken down into smaller more easily attainable goals. For instance, if your goal is to one day complete the Bass Pro Half Marathon, make your first goal to complete a 5k walking. Then move up to run/walk intervals and then to running the 5k. Move up to the 10k afterwards keeping in mind the 10% rule which states to increase mileage no more than 10% each week. If you are starting from ground zero, first of all pat yourself on the back for making the decision to improve your health and then remember that you should take at least eight weeks to prepare for your first 3.1 mile run. And then you'll need to slowly work to conquer the 10k and then the half. It's a slow process and there will be easy days and there will undoubtedly be hard days. But keep your eyes focused on your long-term goal! This will keep you motivated to achieve those short term goals which I like to refer to as stepping stones.

3. Increased Speed - So here's the deal. Increasing your speed should only be your goal after you have completed a race. Why? Because that finishing time is going to be your plumb line by which you can accurately predict how much faster you might be able to do it the next time; hence the goal you should shoot for. For instance, let's say you cross the finish line of your first 5k in 33 minutes. A realistic goal would be to shave 3-6 minutes off your time. Keep in mind though that you will eventually find your maximum pace. You will then need to continue doing weekly speedwork sessions to keep that pace. 

4. Renewed mindset - Hands down the biggest obstacle to achieving any goal is the enemy that resides between your ears. It's that voice inside your head that says things like, "You have failed in the past and you will fail again," or "People will laugh at you. Don't even try." But guess what? That voice is a liar! Failing 1,000 times doesn't mean you will fail at attempt number 1,001 if you take a stand and commit to the plan you have set for yourself. And every time that voice tries to speak, say, "Not today. Today I choose victory." 

5. Increased self esteem - Guess what happens when a person achieves small victories? They become more confident that they can do it again, and again and again. So start small and start slow. But start today! When you realize what you are truly capable of, you will be unstoppable and you will inspire others to be the same. 

To put into perspective how this might look in real life, I asked my dear friend, Gretchen, to share her remarkable story. Gretchen is now training for her first Bass Pro Marathon and runs 15-20 miles every Saturday and a few times during the week; something she would have thought impossible just two years ago. Here's her story in her words... 

Two years ago, as I was struggling and panting walking up the stairs in my house. I knew it was time to make some changes in life. I was 44 and way too young to be feeling as constantly tired and out of shape as I was. But where to start, and what was I going to do? Whatever it was, I knew it was not going to be easy. But I have 4 kids and I really want to be around a long time for all of them. I had been down this weight loss road time and time again in my adult life, sometimes with a lot of success and sometimes not… but how to find something that actually works for the long run? If there is one thing in life I have learned it is that quick and easy is never the answer. Cutting everything out of your diet, or exercising non stop are not feasible solutions for long term success. 

Start with small changes like a 10 minute walk, or replacing white pasta with frozen zucchini noodles. 

Start with small changes like a 10 minute walk, or replacing white pasta with frozen zucchini noodles. It is a long slow road with successes and failures and the best thing you can do is learn how to deal with those bumps in the road and not give up. Some days you eat a lot of junk and don’t exercise and you know what? It is OK!! One “bad” day does not undo all of the hard work you put in along the way. Be kind to yourself, which I know better than anyone is easier said than done. It is something that I work on daily, you have to take time and think “why did I think that negative thought, and how can I change that into something more positive?” Find the right people. In this world of social media and all of its glory, it can become a dangerous place of self comparison and trying to measure up to the images that other people put out there for the world to see. Don’t spend your time trying to be like other people, be the best YOU that you can be…. That is so so important. Find a friend or a group of friends who cheer you on and support you even in your bad days. 

Most of all remember it is a journey there will be good days and bad, celebrate the great days and give yourself some grace on the bad, don’t just give up.

Most of all remember it is a journey. There will be good days and bad. Celebrate the great days and give yourself some grace on the bad, don’t just give up. It is a journey, and you have to trust yourself and the journey you are on, just keep moving. As much as we are a society of instant gratification, true success does not come overnight. It is a long, slow process, but if you stick with it and have faith, great things can come from it.

True success doesn't come overnight. It is a long, slow process. But if you stick with it and have faith, great things can come of it. 

Do you remember what I said about inspiring other people? That's what Gretchen now does! And something you can do too! Gretchen is a great example of what any person can achieve when they commit to a goal and decide to conquer their worst enemy every day, remembering that the battle is not won easily or without consistent effort . Results take time, commitment and work. But guess what? You're worth it and you have what it takes to be successful. Keep reminding yourself of that and you will soon be crossing the finish line of that race you have been dreaming about! 

Happy Running!!!

Not right now

"The eyes of all look expectantly to You, And You give them their food in due season." Psalm 145:15 NKJV

 "A few weeks back, I was supposed to run a virtual 50k with some friends on the Frisco trail. Between the heat and my nerve pain issues, I only completed 28 miles. I've spent the last few weeks praying, working on my nutrition input while running, and my overall strength. I am happy to say that God was with me today... Hit mile 31 just as my watch reached 2% battery. I guess it's time to buy another watch if I am going to run the 50 miler in November. Thank you to God for the glorious time today." Those were the words written by my dear friend, Rachel, upon completing the goal she had set for herself several weeks ago. And do you know what I love most about this? Rachel didn't see her DNF (Did Not Finish) from “a few weeks back” as a 'no' from God but as a 'not right now.' 

And you know, as believers, there will be many times in our lives when we will experience 'not right now's’ as well; times when the desires of our heart will not be granted as we want them to be. And as much as we want our prayers to be answered in our time, we would do well to remember that God's timing is perfect. In fact, the Bible tells us that the Lord gives us what we need in "due season" or at the appropriate time. Until then, you and I are to "look expectantly to Him" knowing He will use these waiting period to refine us, to grow us, to develop our patience and endurance, and to make us more aware of our need for Him. 

So if you're in a time of waiting, take heart my friend. "In due season" the Lord will give you exactly what you need. Until then, look up and be encouraged!

Heavenly Father, thank You for being the God of all wisdom that knows what we need and when we need it. Cause us to remember that our faith grows when we wait on and hope in You and for that we should rejoice. Help us to trust You during these times Lord. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Look up child

Two are better than one

"Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed." Ecclesiastes 4:9 NLT

In preparation for the upcoming 7th Annual Frog Hill Half Marathon that I am blessed to be the Race Director of, a group of friends and I decided to check out the course as we do every year. Now before I go any further, let me tell you that this 13.1 mile race is hard; a truth we don't even try and sugarcoat. In fact, it's so difficult that we like to tell our runners that completing the Frog Hill Half will give them extreme bragging rights. So when one of the girls, Randi, in our group said she would be coming along Saturday morning but would be pushing a double stroller, I knew it was going to be tough. But guess what? Just as I knew would happen, Randi didn't have to rely on her own strength. Throughout the course of the run her friends helped her push, which ultimately led to the success of the whole group. 

And you know, when it comes to completing any task or goal, our chances are exponentially increased when we have the help of a friend or two. It’s just a fact. Solomon, the wisest man to have ever lived, clearly understood that when he wrote. “two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.” We are just better in pairs and as part of a group of like-minded individuals because we help one another carry the load and press on to the finish line. 

So remember my friend.. you and I weren’t meant to do this life solo. And we were certainly not meant to run the Christian race alone. God gave us companions to come alongside to help us and gives us the opportunity in turn to help them. Being part of a team is truly a win-win for us all. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for designing us to be part of a body that works together. Help us to understand the importance of developing godly relationships to keep us motivated and equipped to complete the calling You have placed on our lives. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Lean on me - DC Talk

Do not waste any more time

"’Come, follow Me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” And at once they left their nets and followed Him.” Matthew 4:19-20 BSB

Upon glancing out the window and deciding there was enough light to avoid getting out my headlamp for my early morning run yesterday, I headed out the door. But after passing the last house on my route with a streetlamp, the road in front of me soon got dark and I knew I had made a mistake. "Oh my," I thought. "I'll just have to slow way down and bide my time until the sun rises." And by the time that happened, I looked at my watch to see that I had lost some valuable minutes over the course of the first two miles. Knowing I had a meeting later that I couldn't be late for, I said to myself, "You better hurry up girl if you're gonna get this done. You have to make up for that lost time."

And you know, when it comes to time, do you realize that it’s impossible for a person to get back the time they spent on meaningless pursuits or engaging in destructive or selfish habits and behaviors? In fact, the only way anyone can avoid wasting another moment on things that don’t matter is to leave their old life behind "at once" and start a new and better one; something Peter and Andrew did when they surrendered their old lives to Christ, which was a choice they never regretted. You see, with their new lives devoted to Jesus, Peter and Andrew became “fishers of men” rather than mere fishermen and spent the remainder of their days setting the world on fire for Christ. 

So if you’re at a point where you’re saying to yourself, “I’m not happy with the way I’ve lived my life. I’ve done nothing that truly matters,” then follow the example of Peter and Andrew my friend. Drop your nets at once, follow after Jesus with your whole heart and watch what He can do through the new you. I promise you won't regret it. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for being a God who can redeem our pain and wasted days. If there’s someone reading this that needs a new start and a new purpose, I pray this is the day they would choose to say, “I’m leaving my old life behind to follow you Jesus. Teach me to fish for men that I might serve You all the days of my life." It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

What if I gave everything?

Accept the blame

"David prayed, "I am your servant. But what I did was stupid and terribly wrong. Please forgive me.'" 1 Chronicles 21:8 CEV

Anticipating the beautiful sunrise that I was just sure was going to come up once the dense fog subsided on my early morning run yesterday, I turned to go in the direction of the spot where I knew it would be seen best; a direction that required me to run by the highway for a brief time to get to the trail. "Don't go that way," I felt the Spirit say. "It's just too dangerous this morning. Head to the track." And you know what? I was certainly glad that I obeyed. The thick and heavy fog that made it hard for motorists to see didn't dissipate until much later; leaving me with this thought, "If I had disobeyed what I knew was a clear command, I would have had no one to blame but myself if I had gotten hit by a car." 

And you know, the same is true for every person who disobeys what they know to be a clear command from God as well; they have no one to blame but themselves for the consequences that follow. Am I right? But how often do people blame the Lord instead? Saying things like, "If only You had done this or that, I wouldn't be in this mess." Or, "Why did You let this happen to me?" But truly, as David clearly came to understand, the appropriate response to our disobedience should always be to pray and say, "What I did was stupid and terribly wrong. Please forgive me." 

So if you find yourself dealing with the fallout of disobedience today, don't be angry at God my friend. It's not His fault. Instead accept the blame, repent of your wrongdoing, ask for forgiveness and go on—thankful that our God is the God of second chances. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that the majority of the trouble we find ourselves in is a result of our disobedience. Help us to acknowledge our mistakes rather than blame you Lord that we might be humble enough to repent and move on. Thank You for forgiving us when we pray and ask. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Second chance

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION-Look at the bright side

Hello runner friends! 

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series 

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog. Now let's get started by talking about something that can totally zap a person's motivation... injury. 

Yes. I said the word no runner wants to ever hear or talk about. But guess what? Just because you don't want to talk about injuries, doesn't make them any less real. And guess what else? If you run long enough, you WILL get injured. It's just a fact. And while an injury may sideline you from running for a while, it is possible to keep your motivation high by looking at the bright side of things and keeping your eyes on the finish line. 

And just what do I mean by that? What could possibly be the bright side of an injury? Well first let's explore what bright side means. As defined by Merriam Webster, to look "on the bright side" is to look to the good part of something bad. What could possibly be a good part about being injured you might ask?

Well, let's look at what my amazingly encouraging friend, Sean Wilson, is going to be focusing on during the six to eight weeks he will have to stop running to allow a newly developed stress fracture to heal. But first, check out his post from early Saturday morning; keeping in mind that he was right on track in his Bass Pro Marathon training...

"I decided to run a half marathon this morning. At mile three I felt a pop in my right foot. I could have stopped and turned around but I'm glad I didn't. In life our desire is that things always goes our way without opposition. However, we all know that's not true, we will sometimes have to run our race while injured. I'm sure I will need this testimony for myself later down the line."

So Sean made the mistake thousands of other runners do every single day. He ran through pain when he should have stopped. But as we all know, there is pain that is safe to run through and pain that is not. And determining which type of pain you're experiencing can be hard to decipher sometimes-and sometimes only in hindsight. Which leads us to Sean's post later that evening...

"Well today started out well. I purposed to run a half marathon. Around the 3 mile mark I felt a pop in my right foot. So I stopped and tied my shoe tighter and finished the run. Well, I didn't know I fractured my foot. So, now I'm out for 6 to eight weeks. This is just a bump in the road and now I will focus on my diet even more to include push ups, leg raises, and hip flexor work. I will lose 25-30 more pounds during this hiatus. That's the goal and I'm going for it."

Did you see how quickly Sean made the decision to look at the bright side? This is the key to staying motivated my friends!! He has nearly eight weeks until race day. Eight weeks that should not and can not be wasted if he is to be ready for Bass Pro. He may have to drop down to the half and do the full at a later date; it will depend on what the doctors say I'm sure. But this is the point... Sean will be working on getting stronger and eating better during this time. And as he and I discussed, he will be doing non load bearing cross-training exercises to be ready for race day! 

So let's talk about three types of non load bearing exercises Under Armour says can help an injured runner like Sean keep his or her sanity and endurance while healing. But keep in mind that not all of these exercises are safe for an injured athlete. Ask your doctor which one is right for you depending on the type and location of your injury. 

1. Pool Running - If you’re injured and unable to perform any weight-bearing exercise, aqua jogging should be your go-to method for maintaining fitness. Of all types of cross-training, pool running is the most running specific. This means it is most similar to actual running in respect to your movement and biomechanics.

You can replicate just about any type of running workout in the pool, from tempos to intervals to long runs. So what’s the down side of pool running? It’s not terribly exciting especially if you’re trying to push through a 2-hour long run. But if you can hang in there with a little monotony, you’ll see the benefits when you’re able to hit the road again.

* On a side note to this, I'd love to give my personal testimony on the effectiveness of pool running and pool workouts specific for runners. In 2016, I was eight weeks out from my third Boston Marathon and developed peroneal tendinitis. I was crushed! My tickets were bought and hotel paid for. Thankfully a wise friend suggested doing all my training in the pool as she had done herself due to injury. Another wise friend who was also an elite runner and retired podiatrist (I am blessed with so many running friends to say the least) said this, "Melissa, you can indeed train in the pool. Wear a walking boot at all other times. It will hurt to run the marathon because you will have done no pounding but it can be done if you're willing to endure the pain." And you bet I was! It was indeed gut-wrenching but by God's grace I finished the race under cutoff. And that experience not only led me to teach pool running to others but to incorporate it into my training plans. I have used it since to rehab many other injuries with great success. And a bonus to the monotony and time alone? It helps a runner develop mental grit and the ability to run alone for hours on end (things necessary to be successful in ultra running).

2. Cycling - Cycling is another type of cross-training that is particularly runner specific. Because it is a non-weight bearing exercise, injured runners can often cycle pain-free. Like pool running, it provides a perfect opportunity to replicate workouts such as tempos and intervals. 

Cycling helps strengthen the quads, outer hips and glutes, which all tend to be weaker in runners. When replacing a running session with a cycling workout, 10–15 minutes on the bike is roughly the equivalent of running one mile. Try to keep your cadence at about 90+ RPMs (rotations per minute), as this helps mimic a running stride.


3. Elliptical - A third cross-training option that is also runner-specific and low-impact is the elliptical. Working out on an elliptical closely mimics your running movement with little-to-no impact on your joints. Make sure to use enough resistance to get your heart rate elevated for an aerobic workout.

Like pool running, ellipticals can also be a little monotonous. An alternative, if available, is the ElliptiGO bike. A number of elite runners, including Meb Keflezighi, have used these as a supplement to their training. They have all the benefits of an elliptical machine while allowing you break the monotony and get outside.

But remember, cross-training is not just for the injured athlete. Regular cross-training can help keep you free from injury as well! So incorporate it into your routine along with regular strength training. You'll be so glad you did! 

And on a final note, I'd love to share Sean's latest post to his running family  that will have you smiling... 

"I'm still moving forward. Battles can be won in more than one way therefore, be willing to adapt and overcome. I know that this group is filled with overcomers. Be encouraged and pray that the Lord gives us the strategy to overcome the current test. Be blessed!! We win!! It's all in motion. Clean eating, spiritual enrichment, mental stability, physical fitness and caring friends. Thanking the Lord for the good people in my life."

Sean is not giving up on his goal and neither should you! He is simply using different avenues to get there. This is how a person looks at the bright side! Remember that old saying "there's more than one way to skin a cat?" Well there's more than one way to train for a race too! Keep that in mind as you make the choice to look at the bright side of things.

Happy Running!!!

 

Be hot or cold

"I know your deeds; you are neither cold nor hot. How I wish you were one or the other! So because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to vomit you out of My mouth!" Revelation 3:15-16 BSB

As a running coach, I am often asked the question, "Which is better for recovery, a hot or cold soak?" And while my answer has always been cold, new research suggests there may be a time and a place for heat as well. For instance, cold-water therapy (ice baths) is the go-to for runners experiencing inflammation from the hard effort of a long run and has been deemed effective in both healing and preventing injury. Heat therapy, however, can aid in muscle relaxation and create changes on a cellular level, allowing fluids to flow more freely through your body. At the end of the day though, one thing is certain; cold wins out over hot almost always and lukewarm therapy has no benefit whatsoever. 

And you know, when it comes to being being lukewarm, the Bible is very clear that a lukewarm church is of no benefit whatsoever to the world. And the same can be said of a lukewarm Christian or any believer that claims to love Jesus but exhibits no fruit or is reluctant to publicly proclaim their faith. It's the person who may even come to church every Sunday to mark it off their list-acting one way inside the building and a total different way outside the building. Of this person, God says, "How I wish you were one or the other! So because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to vomit you out of My mouth!" Wow! That's a pretty brutal statement isn't it? Clearly God is not messing around. 

So if you were to take your temperature today, would you say you are hot, cold, or lukewarm? What would God, who knows "your deeds," say that you are? If the answer to that is merely lukewarm, what steps will you do to change that?  

Heavenly Father, thank You for making it perfectly clear that lukewarm Christianity is not only unacceptable to You but absolutely offensive. Help us to see ourselves as You do Lord that we might change whatever we need to change to be on fire for You so we can be the light we are called to be in this dark world. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Start a fire

Be of one heart and mind

"Now the entire group of those who believed were of one heart and mind, and no one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but instead they held everything in common." Acts 4:32 CSB

Did you know that only an elite group of people will ever complete an ultra marathon (a mere 0.0025% of the worlds population to be exact)? It’s true. Why? Because the training and the actual race are so intensely difficult that it takes a certain mindset to even want to attempt it; a mindset that I saw in so many of the other hundred runners (67 for the 50k and 34 for the 50 mile) I was blessed to run alongside that pressed on to cross the finish line of the Katy 50/50 Trail Run Saturday. And we were successful in large part because we "were of one heart and mind," meaning we shared such a passion, fervor and zeal for completing our race and helping others do the same that we encouraged one another and shared tips and supplies along the course to spur one another on to completion; something that made us all better. 

And you know, this shared mindset that allowed this group of runners to achieve victory is the same unity of thought that the body of believers should have. You see, if the church is to successfully witness to and be the change this world so desperately needs, we, as an "entire group" must be "of one heart and mind" with a passion to win the lost. We must be willing to lay aside our differences and preferences to come together as an 'elite group of people' that will dare to do big things in the name of Jesus, sharing our God-given resources and talents with one another to further the cause of Christ.  

So let us hold nothing back in our pursuit to fulfill The Great Commission as each and every believer has been commanded to do. But, rather, let us join together as one body united in "heart and mind" to see the name of Christ magnified. It’s only then that the church will live up to its’ full potential. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that it's easier to reach any goal when we work together. Help your church to grasp the importance of the command to go and make disciples of all nations that we would unite together-denominations of all believers- to make that happen. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Christ be magnified