Give your Allegiance to God

"'No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money." Matthew 6:24 NIV

In an article published Friday titled “Who Will Run the World Championships Marathon for the U.S. This Summer?” the writer explained why the three men and women runners that qualify for the position (selected by a descending order time list) might not accept the invitation to represent the United States: Not every American athlete will accept a spot, if offered. Some instead will choose to focus on a fall marathon, where they can earn substantial appearance fees and prize money that aren’t offered at worlds. Others won’t race at all this summer or fall, and instead they’ll train for the Olympic Marathon Trials in February 2024. How is it likely to shake out? Runner’s World reached out to the top seven men and women currently on the list or their coaches or agents to inquire about their plans. And out of the 14 runners asked, only four of them (2 men and 2 women) gave a definite yes. Others either said no or said they would consider it. In other words, only a small percentage were willing to forego the fame and fortune to represent their country. 

And you know, when it comes to representing Christ to the world, the Bible is very clear that "no one can serve two masters." Which means that every person must decide for themselves whether they will pursue fame and fortune or the things of God, keeping in mind that they will either "hate the one and love the other" because they "cannot serve both God and money." Which means there is no middle ground. The thing you pursue above all else is where your heart and your allegiance lies. This obviously doesn't mean that we don't work to obtain a paycheck but that the pursuit of money doesn't occupy our thoughts, time, and efforts--it's merely a means to provide for ourselves and for our families, to further the Kingdom, and to fulfill the calling God has placed on our lives. 

So don't fall into the worldly trap of thinking that you can serve both God and money my friend because you can't. Jesus Christ demands and deserves our full allegiance. But this is the good part... when you serve God here, you gain everything in eternity. But when you serve money, although you might gain a bit of fame and fortune here, you lose eternity. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we cannot serve both God and money and that neglecting to choose You is choosing the world. Lord, in this materialistic world that we live in please make us content with having only the things we need that we might not pursue things that don't matter. Cause us to seek the Kingdom and You first Father so that we would live worthy of being a representative of Jesus Christ. It's in your precious Name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Live to be Known as Faithful

“But this is not true of my servant Moses; he is faithful in all my house.” Numbers 12:7 NIV

In an article published by the BBC yesterday, the following was reported: A man has died shortly after completing the London Marathon in under three hours.Organisers of the event said Steve Shanks, 45, from Bingham, Nottinghamshire, died suddenly while travelling home on Sunday. Tributes have been paid to the runner, whose cause of death has not yet been shared. In a statement, his wife Jessica said she was "in shock and devastated". She added his passing was "sudden and out of the blue". "He was returning home having spent the day participating in the London Marathon," she said. "As you can imagine I'm absolutely in shock and devastated."  On a fundraising page that was later set up in his honor it was said that “Steve was a keen runner never happier than running. But he was more than just a runner - he was [a] musician, a knitter, and a renowned quizzer possessed of extensive knowledge of terrible pop music. He will be greatly missed and always in our hearts and memories."

And you know, the suddenness of this runner’s death served as a great reminder that no one can predict the time of their departure. Seemingly young and healthy people die every day despite their best attempts to delay the inevitable through exercise and eating right. Which brings me to the point. If you were to die today, how do you think those left behind would describe you? How would you want them to remember you? I don’t know about you but, like Moses, I want to be remembered as a “faithful” follower of God and I hope you do too. This means we must live for Him each and every day, unashamedly letting our light shine for all the world to see. 

So live to be remembered as ‘more than just a runner’ my friend. Live so on fire for the Lord, publicly praising Him and witnessing to others, that you will be remembered as a faithful follower of Jesus Christ above all else. No other title could compare with that. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that life is fragile and fleeting. Cause us to truly understand this so that we wouldn’t take even one moment for granted but would live to know You and to make your Great Name known above all of our other pursuits. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.  

Happy Running!

We are all Called to Testify

“If you are called to testify about something you have seen or that you know about, it is sinful to refuse to testify, and you will be punished for your sin.” Leviticus 5:1 NLT

In an article titled “Trans runner beat 14K women in London Marathon after running NYC as a man” published Tuesday the following was reported: A transgender runner is under fire for crediting “girl power” for beating nearly 14,000 others in the female category of the London Marathon — just months after racing in New York as a man… The celebratory remarks soon became the latest lightning rod for critics opposed to transgender athletes competing against biological women. Males in the [female] category is UNFAIR for females,” tweeted two-two Olympic marathoner Mara Yamauchi alongside Frank’s interview. “Nearly 14,000 actual females suffered a worse finish position [because] of” Frank, wrote Yamauchi — who said that even when she was “ranked second in the world” as a woman “at least 1300 men ran faster than me.” Mara went on to say, “ This male competed under UK Athletics’ transitional arrangements, but it is still wrong and unfair.” 

And you know, when it comes to calling out things that are wrong and unfair (regardless of whether they are legal), every believer is called by God to speak up against injustice and oppression. In fact the Bible gives us this command, “If you are called to testify about something you have seen or that you know about, it is sinful to refuse to testify, and you will be punished for your sin.” Which means choosing to be silent when we should expose evil is wrong. That’s why we must testify to the Truth! And the truth is this… there are only two genders, male and female. Which means biological men should not be competing against women no matter how adamantly they declare themselves to be females. It’s both wrong and unfair. 

So if you’re tempted to remain silent today, consider this my friend… if you and I don’t speak up against wrongdoing, it means we are tolerating it, and in essence, supporting it. And it also means that it will continue. So don’t be afraid to publicly declare what you know to be true. Your actions might just encourage others to do the same thing. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we can NOT be silent any longer. Cause us to consider that our silence thus far has allowed these injustices to happen in the first place. Forgive us for our apathy Lord and embolden us from this day forward to testify to the Truth. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Slow is Not an Excuse

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about two of the top excuses I've heard as a running coach that keep a person from signing up for the marathon or half marathon that's on their bucket list... “I'm too slow” and “I'll come in last place.”

Let's address the latter one first. What's wrong with being in last place anyway? I mean someone has to claim the position right? And with every finish line that I've ever had the blessing of being at when the last person crossed, there was always awe and cheering for the man or woman who had the guts and grit to keep going long after a good majority of runners had grabbed their medals and gone home. This scene played out over the weekend when 35-year-old Tom Durnin crossed the finish line of the London Marathon in eight hours, 10 minutes and 58 minutes. The crowd went absolutely wild! The race directors described the finish as "one of the greatest moments" in London Marathon history and later tweeted: "We're in awe of your determination to finish what you started." Do you just love that or what? His finish was all the more inspiring when he shared the events that nearly kept him from the start line. Mr Durnin, from Banbury in Oxfordshire, revealed he had a car crash in December that severely limited his training.The 35-year-old suffered a bleed on the brain and a broken arm in the crash but still managed to finish the race. Mr Durnin told the BBC he had not been able to do any training until March because of the car accident. "The furthest I'd run up until [Sunday] was 10k so I went well into the unknown," he said. 

Tom then went on to describe some of what happened along his 26.2 mile journey, "At mile 10 my ankle gave way and my foot and then my knee, and then at mile 16 my other knee went so I was just ploughing through... on jelly babies and Lucozade and everything else that was being handed out along the way." He said giving up "wasn't an option" and he was determined to finish, no matter how long it took, so he could raise money for the Bone Cancer Research Trust. "One of the hardest parts was when I got to mile 23 and for some reason I thought a marathon was 24 miles... that's when a lot wind comes out of me because you're prepared to finish," he added. Despite the pain, Mr Durnin said he wanted to run the marathon again next year. Wow right? Can you imagine all the people Tom inspired? But guess what? Nearly anyone with the same spirit and determination that says "giving up isn't an option" can complete a marathon or a half marathon. 

Now let's move on to the next excuse... I'm too slow. So what's wrong with being slow? As someone who's had the blessing of being close to the front of the pack, at the back of the pack and everywhere in between, I'll tell you what I've learned.... Marathons are like mullets. The party is in the back! I'm not even kidding. And if you're worried about not making cutoff, consider that many races (more all the time) have very generous cutoffs. Most even allow for the runners to finish at their own risk if the course has to be reopened to allow for traffic to resume. The Bass Pro Marathon/Half is just one of those races. This is what their official page had to say about their course time limit, "Cohick Half Marathon, Conservation Marathon & Conservation Marathon Relay presented by Fleet Feet courses are open for approximately 6.5 hours. This is NOT A CLOSED COURSE so if your pace is over a 15 minute mile, you may continue but will be asked to move to the sidewalks and follow all traffic laws."

So there you have it friends. Being slow or fearing being last are not valid excuses for not checking that marathon or half marathon off your bucket list. And neither is not having a training partner or training plan. Official 2023 Bass Pro Fitness Training will begin in July in both the Springfield and St. Robert areas. There's no cost for participating either which means there's no reason not to make 2023 the year you accomplish your goal. Hope to see you out there! Happy Running!

Remain Unshaken

“I keep my eyes always on the LORD. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” Psalm 16:8 NIV

In an article posted yesterday reporting Sifan Hassan’s victory in the women’s division at the London Marathon Sunday, Hassan told reporters after the race, “There were so many dramas, so many dramas -- but it's beautiful." She went on to describe how her training and nutrition hadn’t been up to par and how she forgot to tape up her injured leg, causing her to lose precious time in the first part of the race. Incredibly though, Hassan appeared to shake off the pain it caused and even picked up her pace as she gained on the lead group. She had made up the lost ground by the closing stages, narrowly avoiding further disaster when she swerved towards a motorbike to collect her bottle from a drinks station. Apparently unshaken by the near miss, Hassan recovered and had enough energy to outsprint Ethiopia's Alemu Megertu and Kenya's Peres Jepchirchir, the Olympic marathon champion, in the shadow of Buckingham Palace, breaking the finish tape in two hours, 18 minutes, and 34 seconds.

And you know, when it comes to reaching the ultimate finish line despite the “dramas” that are sure to plague us along the way, we would do well to, like David, always keep our eyes on the Lord so that we will remain unshaken in every situation and have the confidence and courage to battle and overcome the obstacles in our way—obstacles that can cause us to drop out of if we forget that it’s not by our strength that these battles are won. David clearly understood this declaring with all boldness and conviction, “With him at my right hand I will not be shaken.” 

Thankfully the same God that was at David’s side is also at our side my friend. This means that nothing in this world should ever shake us up! Our God is bigger than any “dramas” this world can throw at us. So keep running the race until the end. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that there’s no battle too big for us to win when You are our Strength and our Defender. Lord cause us to be bolder than ever to declare Truth and fight evil, remaining unshaken no matter what comes against us. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Just Keep Going

“But the one who perseveres to the end will be saved.” Matthew 24:13 BSB

“The Lions Roar in Columbia is always a well directed race. Loop races are great for meeting people and constant encouragement. The weather was cold, very windy and sleet from start to finish for an added challenge. I started the race with strained mcl and expected to not make it far, but somehow it all worked out by just not giving up.” Those were the few words posted by one of my dearest friends, Ed Green, yesterday morning after completing a 24 hour race where he managed to get in 70.83 miles despite his injury. Wanting more details, I reached out to him with a few questions and this is what Ed had to add to the story, “I strained my MCL trail running in the mud and had some swelling. I had pain and stiffness in both knees all week and was worried I would be out for weeks as I have had surgery on both knees for torn MCL and Meniscus and it felt a bit the same. I did not run all week, just my daily yoga and light walking. I went to the race expecting to have to bail out early and would just volunteer all weekend. It was a struggle for a bit, but I am used to struggling so I just kept going cause something always hurts. At 63, it hurts to wake up some days.” Is that an inspiring story or what? He just kept going…

And you know, in this life we will all have struggles. That’s just the way it is. But as the end days draw nearer, believers everywhere should expect these struggles to intensify as Jesus clearly told us in the Word—troubles so intense that many will compromise or turn away from the faith. Which is the very reason Jesus told the disciples that, “the one who perseveres to the end will be saved.” This was a call to just keep going regardless of the hurts and struggles that were sure to come. And this call is for us right now! We must stand firm and cling fast to the truth of God’s Word so that we can withstand the onslaught of wickedness that will only increase and to recognize and reject false teaching and evil narratives. That’s the only way you and I will overcome this world and receive our eternal reward in the world to come. We just have to keep going!

So no matter what happens today, tomorrow, the next day or next year, don’t give up my friend. Keep pressing on knowing that it will all work out in the end. Jesus has already overcome the world and it’s just a matter of time before He returns. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that although we will have trials and troubles, our victory is already in Christ who overcame the world. Knowing this, help us to be bold, confident, uncompromising and unafraid in the coming days so that we would persevere until the end. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

We all Make Messes

“And one of them struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his right ear. But Jesus answered, “No more of this!”And he touched the man’s ear and healed him.” Luke 22:50-51 NIV

In a story published yesterday titled, “Just Who Cleans Up After the Boston Marathon Runners?” it was reported that some 30,000 runners ran the 2023 iconic race in very wet conditions. During the race, soaking-wet layers were shed throughout the streets as runners attempted to stay cool and dry. Meanwhile, discarded water bottles, gel packets, and other race-related debris lined the streets. This led to a question many runners asked, “How does this colossal mess get cleaned up so quickly after the race?” A recent story from MassLive revealed that it might have a little something to do with the nearly 10,000-strong army of blue and yellow-clad volunteers, some of whom have volunteered their time for over 30 years… Once the last runner begins the race, volunteers and race staff have returned the starting line at Hopkinton Center to its normal state. “Once that last wave is gone, all the clean-up starts immediately,” Jim Grasso, a race volunteer from Burlington, Massachusetts, told MassLive.com. “All the stuff’s off the street, all the trash is picked up, all the bags are lined up for the pickup... it’s like it never happened.”

And you know, when it comes to quick and complete cleanups, the Bible gives us the story of Peter’s ‘mess-up’ on the night Jesus was arrested. When Peter saw that Judas was about to betray Jesus and the guards were going to lead him away, Peter was the “one” who “struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his right ear.” This was not only scandalous but against the law and therefore punishable. This momentary lapse in judgment could have ruined Peter’s life. But Jesus “touched the man’s ear and healed him.” Isn’t that just like our Savior though? Before being led away with the weight of the world on His shoulders, Jesus cared enough about His friend to restore an ear, effectively cleaning up Peter’s mess ‘like it never happened.’

So let us vow to follow the example of our Savior by helping our friends (and strangers) who might be in need of cleaning up a ‘mess’ they might have made, remembering that we aren’t exempt from making messes ourselves. Let us be the hands and feet of Jesus to a ‘messed- up’ world that they might be drawn to the One who loves the lost enough to restore them. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we all make messes from time to time. Help us to look upon others with compassion rather than haughtiness knowing that it’s only by the grace of God that we haven’t made a permanent mess of our own lives. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Actions Reveal the True Heart

“They profess to know God, but in works they deny Him being abominable, disobedient, and disqualified for every good work.” Titus 1:16 NKJV

In an article published yesterday titled “Ultramarathon runner took third place – then revealed she had taken a car during the race, it was reported that runner Joasia Zakrzewski took a flight from Australia to the U.K. to compete in an ultramarathon – and then she used a car to finish the race. It was only after she accepted the third place prize that she revealed she had cheated during the 2023 GB Ultras Manchester to Liverpool, according to BBC News. According to Facebook posts, Zakrzewski, 47, was neck and neck with the other top runners in the 50-mile race. But for 2.5 miles of it, she was in a car. And while Joasia gave several excuses to justify her actions and to explain why she accepted the trophy as her own and then allowed pictures to be taken, the GB Ultras disqualified her and awarded the third place to the next finisher. 

And you know, when it comes to being disqualified for knowing the rules but intentionally breaking them, the Bible tells us that those people who profess to know God but deny that profession by the way they act (being abominable and disobedient) are disqualified or ineligible from doing anything good. In other words, there will be people who will pretend to have a high spirituality but it will only be a facade that will eventually be exposed by their repugnantly hateful and unholy behavior. 

So let us remember that although we can’t always know the state of a person’s heart, we can gauge their actions (especially over time) to see whether they're compatible with a redeemed life—and thus know whether that person is a true believer in Jesus Christ. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that the actions  of a person, rather than their words, are the true indication of whether a person truly believes in Jesus Christ. Lord, help us to be discerning when choosing our inner circle and those who we look to for the Truth. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Embrace the April Showers

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about those April showers. You know, the ones that bring May flowers? And also the ones that plagued the runners at Monday's 127th running of the Boston Marathon. Whether you're a professional runner or a recreational one (like the majority of us), rain is just part of the game... especially this time of year. But it didn't dampen the spirits of the runners in Massachusetts and it shouldn't dampen yours either.

Which is the very reason that every runner should train in the rain. After all, you have to train in every condition to be ready for every condition right? Consider the plight of Des Linden at the 2018 Boston Marathon. After running through a torrential downpour, she became the first American woman to win this iconic race since 1985. With the rain streaming down and her feet splashing through puddles, Linden crossed the finish line in 2:39:54 in a history-making moment. It was later reported that Linden spent the last few weeks of her training block in northern Michigan, where cold and rainy temperatures were the norm. I'm sure she didn't appreciate the weather then but it made all the difference on race day. 

So without further ado, check out these five simple tips Chad Schiffman, Ironman finisher, marathon runner, and a NASM certified personal trainer, who lives in Pensacola, Florida—one of the rainiest cities in the country, gives for "running in the rain safely and comfortably." And remember... you never know what the weather will be like on race day. Put in the work. You won't regret it. 

1. Check for lightning

While the traditional running season starts at the beginning of the spring and ends mid-fall, races happen all year round. With that in mind, race organizers won’t cancel or postpone a race due to the chance of rain unless there’s lightning or heavy winds involved. “I've been caught in the rain when lightning has happened, and it is quite intimidating,” Schiffman tells Runner’s World. So, it’s best to check the weather before you head out and ensure there’s no chance of lightning within a ten-mile radius.

2. Gear up accordingly and be visible

Another thing to consider before heading out is picking the right apparel, like a running-specific rain jacket with wicking capabilities, shares Schiffman. Also, “if you're prone to [chaffing], you may want to carry a small thing of Body Glide or something similar, like Vaseline packets, just in case.” This way, you can apply it before a run or during to minimize chafing.While running in the rain, visibility is key. Not only do you want to be seen, but you also want to see clearly. For this reason, Schiffman says he wears a hat with a brim and clear sunglasses when it rains to avoid water getting in his eyes.

Also, save your all-black running clothes for another time, and instead, wear bright shoes or a reflective top. Rain or shine, “I would just want to make sure that I had something that would increase my visibility just in case it did start raining,” Schiffman says.

3. Wear the right shoes

Running with soaking-wet feet can lead to painful blisters; to avoid this, wear shoes with the proper drainage, says Schiffman. But if you’re not willing to invest in a new pair of shoes or would rather stick to the pair you’ve got, you can also treat your shoes with water-repellant spray or use trail-running shoes.

*And the right socks. No cotton! Think a rayon/polyester blend. 

4. Leave the electronics at home

For those of us who like to listen to podcasts, audiobooks, or music while clocking miles, this tip can be hard to follow. But leaving your electronics at home can be a great practice for race day, “for example, being in the Ironman series and similar races, I've learned some events don't allow headphones, so I've learned to leave them at home,” shares Schiffman.

And for safety reasons, running with fewer distractions is best because rain can drown out the sounds of cars passing by. So, consider turning off the tunes while you run or leaving your phone behind—you can always track your runs using a smartwatch like a Sunnto, Polar, or an old-fashioned watch.

5. Pay attention to your running mechanics

While running in the rain, be mindful of your running mechanics and consider how you may need to adjust your approach to finish your run safely. Schiffman prefers to focus on shortening his stride and picking up his cadence to avoid overreaching his leg and possibly slipping or sliding out. “I've had some good run times in the rain. And I don't know if it's because I just focus on my foot strike and then tune in the form.”

Finally, just keep in mind that there isn’t a solid way to approach running in the rain, but the bottom line is that it’s important to plan your run or race carefully: Monitor the weather, check your gear, plan your route, and adjust your approach accordingly. Above all else, be safe and have fun while running in the rain.

So there you have it friends. Running in the rain will not only ensure that you’re ready for race day but it will allow you to realize something only runners know… there’s no bad weather when you have the right clothing and the proper training. So grab a raincoat and get out there. 

Happy Running!

We are all a Work in Progress

“And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” Philippians 1:6 NLT

Like many Americans yesterday, you might have been saddened by the news that our very own Eliud Kipchoge, who was favored to win but made a mistake he couldn’t recover from, came in 6th place as reported by the Washington Post: Evans Chebet repeated as the men’s champion at the 127th Boston Marathon on Monday, while Hellen Obiri, a fellow Kenyan, won the women’s race for her first marathon victory on a cool, rainy day in Boston. Chebet finished in 2 hours 5 minutes 54 seconds, with Gabriel Geay of Tanzania second in 2:06:04 and Benson Kipruto of Kenya, the 2021 Boston winner, third in 2:06:06. Chebet’s victory was unexpected even though he was the defending champion. World record holder Eliud Kipchoge was favored to win, and he ran a strong race until he missed a water station and faded fast over the final five miles before finishing sixth in 2:09:23 in his first American marathon appearance in 10 years. Wow! This story goes to show that even a small lapse in judgement can have devastating consequences. Thankfully Kipchoge didn’t let the gaffe keep him from running to the finish line though. 

And you know, when it comes to making mistakes, the Bible is very clear that we will all make them. Thankfully though, the Bible is also very clear that you and I are ‘works in progress.’ Which means that “that God, who began the good work within [us], will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” Do you just love that or what? That means the process of sanctification, or being made more like Christ, will continue in spite of our inevitable mistakes until we are made perfect in His presence. 

So if you’ve made a few mistakes, don’t let it keep you from running the race my friend. Confess your shortcomings to the Lord, allow Him to cleanse you and keep pressing on, determined to make it to the finish line! This is all a part of growing more like Christ. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we will all make mistake and we will all sin. Help us to recognize when we have gone astray so we can repent and get back on course Lord, knowing that You will use these times to make us more like You. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

The Greatest Symbol

“As for me, may I never boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of that cross, my interest in this world has been crucified, and the world’s interest in me has also died.” Galatians 6:14 NLT

Like thousands of other runners around the world, you might be watching the Boston Marathon today and wondering, “What’s up with the unicorn? Why is it the official symbol of the iconic race?” To answer that question, Jack Fleming, the BAA’s president and CEO, said. “It’s probably one of our most frequently asked questions. People pause on it, they think about it.” He said the common belief is that the unicorn was on the family crest of one of the BAA’s founding members. That hasn’t been proven,” Fleming said. “But with the rich heritage up here — between the Scots and the English and the Irish — it’s a pretty good likelihood.” Fleming went to say that even if it once belonged to a family that had a coat of arms, the unicorn’s meaning and significance has since broadened.“The unicorn is a mythological figure that is meant to be pursued, but in that pursuit, you never catch [it],” he said. “So it inspires you to continue to try — to race harder in the case of running — and though it may be elusive, it really is the pursuit of the unicorn that makes you better and better and better.”

And you know, when it comes to official symbols or things that represent something else, there is perhaps no symbol that people associate more with Christianity than the cross. This token of the Christian faith not only represents the redemptive plan of God to reconcile all sinners to Him by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, his one and only Son, but that those who follow Jesus are set apart from the world and in a constant pursuit of Him above the things of this world. Paul said it this way, "Because of that cross, my interest in this world has been crucified, and the world’s interest in me has also died." In other words, Paul sought only the approval of God and those things that would further the Kingdom. He had no need for the things of this world and neither should we. 

So seek to be totally set apart from the world my friend. Boast in nothing "except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ" knowing that the pursuit of Him and the crown of righteousness is the only pursuit that will truly matter in the end. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that the cross is not merely an object hung on a wall or placed atop a church steeple but the symbol of God's great love for us shown by Jesus' death on the cross to reconcile us back to Him. Cause us to boast only in the cross and what our Savior did to save us so that we would live for the approval of only You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

People are Most Valuable

“Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” Matthew 10:29-31 NIV

In a story published Wednesday titled “Bear Who Killed Italian Runner Also Attacked Two Others,” it was reported that authorities were finally taking action to prevent another attack. On Wednesday, Italian prosecutors identified the bear that killed Andrea Papi of Caldes, Italy, last week. The 26-year-old runner was out on his usual course in the Alps when the bear, now known as “JJ4,” took his life. Prosecutors in the northern city of Trento found that the DNA samples on Papi matched a female bear identified as "JJ4.” The runner was the only person to be fatally attacked by a bear in this region in the last 20 years. JJ4 had previously attacked two other people. Now, authorities in Northern Italy have asked for the bear to be captured and killed. They first attempted to euthanize the bear in 2020, when it attacked a father and a son near the same area where Papi’s body was found. However, a court overturned the decision. Papi’s funeral will take place on Wednesday.

And you know, although we live in a society that seems to value animals more than humans, the Bible is very clear that the very hairs of our head are numbered by God himself who considers us of greater worth than many sparrows. In fact, the Bible is very clear that “the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.” Did you get that part? Jesus died for all people, not for all animals—which means that the welfare of people must always be considered above and beyond the welfare of a bear or any other animal. 

So let us remember that while every believer is called to take care of animals, we are to value the lives of men and women above them. Especially when an animal is deemed dangerous.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that You value human life above all other life. In light of that, help us to keep a biblical perspective on the way we view creation so that we honor You by our actions. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Speak Only Words that Build Up

“Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen.” Ephesians 4:29 BSB

In a story published Tuesday titled “On TikTok, Anna Hall Tells Body Shamers: “Just Shut Up,’” it was reported that the 22-year-old world heptathlon bronze medalist was prompted to make the TikTok after a stranger commented on a video of her hyping herself up at the Florida Relays last week, saying that “girls don’t have legs like that,” and “she looks like a dude; I can’t tell what gender she is.” In the moving video Hall said, “This is my public service request. Stop telling female athletes they look like men. Literally, stop it—it is so mean…. Just shut up.” She went on, expressing her desire to one day win an Olympic medal or set another record. “I’m gonna look strong if I wanna do that,” she said. Hall ended the video with an earnest plea: “Just stop it. It’s so hurtful for no reason. Like why would you take the time out of your day to say that? Like just scroll. Just scroll…” None of these comments are necessary or useful. As Hall wrote in the caption of her video, “Didn’t their moms ever tell them if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all?”

And you know, when it comes to hateful speech the Bible is very clear that believers are to speak “only what is helpful for building up” others. Which means the old adage “if you don’t have anything nice to say, then don’t say anything at all” applies to all of us. In other words, we are to “let no unwholesome talk” come out of our mouths or be written by our hands. We are not to use any foul or abusive language… ever. Our words should always be an encouragement to those who hear them or read them. 

So be careful what you say or write my friend knowing that you represent Christ to the world. Speak only those words that will bring grace to those who listen so the lost will be drawn to Jesus rather than away from Him. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that our words, whether written or spoken, have the power to either tear people down or build them up. Please help us know when to speak and when to be quiet Lord so that we would be known as a people who speak only words of life. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Consider a New Running Partner

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about the upcoming Boston Marathon. Sure, it's going to be exciting to watch all the runners but did you know that there will be hundreds of dogs there too? It's true! According to Canadian Running: On April 16, hundreds of furry friends will take to the 127th Boston Marathon course to honor Spencer and Penny, the official Boston Marathon dogs who died of cancer in February. More than 100 golden retrievers and their owners are expected to attend and walk to the finish line in a special one-mile event organized by a regional group called MA Golden Meetups. The doggo parade will be the day before the world’s most prestigious marathon on Patriots Day, April 17. In 2018, Spencer went viral after he was seen in a video holding “Boston Strong” flags in his mouth, cheering on the marathoners racing past him in the rain. Since 2014, Spencer has watched the marathon near Ashland State Park (around the five-mile mark on the Boston course), and Penny, who was three years younger, was often seen by his side. 

Runners sure love their dogs! Which brings me to the point... have you ever considered making a canine your running partner? If you get the right breed, a furry companion can keep you company on your training runs and join you on distances from the 5k to the ultra. Especially now that so many races are pet friendly. Having a "friend" to travel to these events with is also a plus. I mean who doesn't love a travel companion that can keep secrets and doesn't steal the covers right? 

Now if this has you thinking, "Hmmmm.... this is something worth considering," check out these 18 Reasons to Go For a Run with a Dog as listed by RUNTASTIC:

1. RUN & HAVE FUN

Grab your dog’s leash and they’ll come running, delighted because they know what’s coming. Every dog owner knows those moments. Let your running buddy’s enthusiasm motivate you, too, when lacing up your running shoes.

2. KILL TWO BIRDS WITH ONE STONE
You need to walk your dog anyway, so why don’t you go for a run instead of walking and get your workout in at the same time? Use the time you save to prepare a yummy, healthy meal afterwards.

3. THE MOST HUMBLE TRAINING BUDDY
Your lovely dog will always be faster than you. However, he/she won’t ever rub it in your face — unlike some human running partners…

4. ALWAYS MOTIVATED
If you’ve tried jogging with a dog, you know how motivated they are when it comes to running across fields & meadows. Have your four-legged friend accompany you, and your motivation will automatically get a boost from his/her enthusiasm while running side by side (or maybe chasing them?).

Never forget that dogs easily push their limits as long as their owners keep going. They’d rather drag themselves along than stop running, even if they might have already exceeded their limit. Pay attention to signs that your four-legged friend is tiring.

5. GOOD FOR YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM
Dogs don’t care if it’s raining or snowing outside. They always want to run, even if the weather is bad.

6. YOUR DOG WILL PUSH YOUR PACE
Since your dog will most likely run a little bit ahead of you, they are the perfect company if you want to improve your pace. You’ll instinctively try to catch up, thereby running faster — so no worries, your pace won’t suffer.

7. YOU’LL CHOOSE HEALTHIER SURROUNDINGS
We usually would rather take our four-legged friends to green areas, meadows, or into the woods so they can explore nature. The great thing is, these types of locations are ideal for your own lungs and mood too.

8. THEY WATCH OUT FOR YOU
Especially when running in dim or dark surroundings, it’s always nice and safer to run with a dog by your side. They automatically scare off possible threats, no matter how big (or small) they are. Plus, all owners of little dogs know that, more often than not, they can make a lot of noise (often without cause).

9. YOU’LL BE MORE ATTRACTIVE
People who keep fit are more often perceived positively by others. If you love animals and work out with your dog, you’ll be considered even more attractive. We have seen this in action with men who workout with their dogs; they are a real magnet.

10. LIVE IN THE MOMENT
When running over rough and smooth terrain, you need to stay attentive to other animals to make sure your buddy doesn’t start chasing them, for example. No time to ponder over your problems — but a great opportunity to be present in the moment!

11. TAKE A BREAK
You can easily seize your dog’s pee breaks or greeting rituals with others to catch your breath again. Totally acceptable.

12. BOTH OF YOU WILL FEEL GREAT

When stepping into the shower and watching your dog sprawl out on the ground after your run, you’ll know you not only did your body some good, but also your loyal companions’.

13. YOUR MOST PATIENT PARTNER

Even though they might run a few steps in front of you, dogs usually adapt to your tempo — provided that the two of you have a good connection. Otherwise, they might run off sometimes.

14. JUST LIKE THE OWNER
Dogs and their owners increasingly resemble each other with time. We’ve all heard that. Well, good for your dog if he/she has a fit and active owner, right?

15. CALM AT HOME
Unchallenged dogs can get pretty hard to put up with at home. If you challenge your dog and keep it busy and active, you’ll be able to enjoy a quiet home.

16. FLIRT IT OUT
Studies(1, 2) showed that it’s a lot easier to start a conversation when out and about with a dog. People looking to meet someone might want to think about bringing along their dog when going for a run. You never know who’s out there (maybe even with a cute dog, too?)! You’ll definitely have something to talk about.

17. A STRONG RELATIONSHIP
In puppy school your dog learns to follow you. They quickly learn that when their owner starts running, they might “lose” them. Therefore, your dog will always try to stay close to you.

18. SAVE ON VET BILLS
My dog, Mocca, has turned into a real athlete. Thanks to our regular running sessions he’s stayed healthy & in shape and we’ve hardly ever had to go to the veterinarian over the past few years.

So there you have it friends. Those are some great reasons to make a dog your running partner.  But believe me, there are many many more! My husband Larry and I did our research and adopted an Aussiedoodle last year that my daughter named Lottie Lou. She has been amazing to run with! Our sweet Lottie Lou not only makes the runs go by faster but is my husband's favorite running buddy (besides me of course). This sweet four-legged girl has completed several half marathons and a few twenty milers too. So consider adopting a dog. You won't regret it! 

Happy Running!

Give Careful Thought to your Paths

“Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways.” Proverbs 4:26 NIV

In an article published by Runner’s World last month, the author said “If there’s anything runners should do, it’s love and appreciate their feet. After all, we ask a lot of these two relatively small parts of our body. Typically, though, runners only pay attention when they feel pain. And while it’s true that happy feet are silent, often only barking when they need something, all runners can benefit from learning how to take better care of their feet.” The writer went on to say that runners should see a podiatrist twice a year where a professional will check their feet for fungus, warts, and corns, as well as check their toenails for discoloration or brittleness. Additionally, they will also look for signs of poor circulation and watch them walk to check their gait, which may help with running shoe selection. 

And you know, when it comes to taking good care of our feet, the Bible tells us to pay attention to where our feet go. You see, when running this spiritual race, a person who deliberately gives “careful thought” to where their steps are taking them is far less likely to stumble into sin or to fall into a trap. Commentator Kevin Waltke explains it this way, “ The son must take care that every step conforms with that way; one false step could prove fatal. Your foot (ragleka) calls attention to every step taken in the road of life.” 

So carefully consider “the paths for your feet” my friend by praying over all your decisions before moving forward to make sure your steps align with the Word. Be steadfast in your commitment to go only where the Father leads so that you’ll make it to the finish line without feeling the pain of veering off course. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us of the importance of being alert to where our feet take us at all times. Help us to detect and discern any thoughts or actions that might lead us astray Lord so that we will always choose the right path that leads to righteousness. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Welcome to the Family

“So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family.” Ephesians 2:19 NLT

“Welcome to the Family.” I had to smile as I saw the words come across the big screen at church as we ended the Resurrection Sunday service; by welcoming all those who chose to make Christ their Savior that morning into the family. These were the same words I had recently spoken to the graduates of the latest Couch to 5k program I had the blessing of teaching. After putting in six weeks of work, the determined men and women in the group ran or walked 3.1 miles at our Frog Fitness Group (FFG) Saturday group run. “Congratulations!” I said to them as I took a finish line photo of them wearing their hard earned medals. “Welcome to the family!” And they knew exactly what I meant. By their actions they were now “members” of the FFG running family and the family of runners worldwide. 

 

And you know, when it comes to being part of the family of Christ, the Bible tells us that prior to the coming of Jesus, the Jewish people considered Gentiles to be unclean and inferior. But through the salvation that Jesus’ death and resurrection provided, those Gentiles who chose to follow Him became “members of God’s family” as do all those who choose to follow Jesus Christ today. By their actions, they are “no longer strangers and foreigners” then,  but “citizens along with all of God’s holy people.” Do you just love that or what? 

So in a world where people are desperately looking to fit in and find their place, let us sound the trumpet that everyone is welcome in God’s family my friend. They’ll certainly be glad that they don’t have to run a 5k either—but simply need to call upon the name of the Lord. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for welcoming all those (Jew and Gentile alike) who choose to follow You into your family. Help us to be bold in sharing the message of Salvation with the lost Lord so that the family of God will grow and the lost will find their place. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

It is Finished

“When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.” John 19:30 NIV

After months or even years of training, there is perhaps no greater feeling than crossing the finish line of a long and grueling race and being able to declare that it's done, finished. Can you imagine how Jesus must have felt on that "Good Friday" two thousand years ago then? Years of teaching the masses, healing the sick, and serving the Lord with all humility had led Him to this day—the day He would be tried, convicted and sentenced to death for a crime he didn’t commit. The day He would be severely beaten, flogged, mocked, slapped and spat on before being given a crown of thorns to wear and forced to carry his own cross to Golgotha, the Place of the Skull, where He was crucified. Having endured all that, Jesus breathed his last breath and said, "It is finished."

"It is finished." Three of the most profound words ever spoken—and literally translated from the Greek word tetelastai, an accounting term that means "paid in full." When Jesus uttered those words then, He was declaring that the sin debt (past, present, and future) of all mankind (that includes you and me) owed to God was wiped away forever, completely reconciled by Jesus’ death on the cross. In other words… Jesus paid a debt He didn’t owe for a debt we couldn’t pay. Why? D.A. Carson explains it this way, “It was not nails that held Jesus to that wretched cross; it was his unqualified resolution, out of love for his Father, to do his Father’s will—and it was his love for sinners like me." Do you just love that or what? 

So let us never forget that we have a Savior who loves us so much that He would die for us my friend. But don’t keep the Good News to yourself! Jesus’ death and resurrection provided eternal life to all those who place their trust in Him. But if we don’t tell the lost, how will they know? Tell somebody about Jesus!

Heavenly Father, thank you for the sacrifice of your Son, Jesus Christ-a sacrifice so great that it’s hard to grasp. Help us to comprehend how deep your love is for us Lord that we might be forever grateful. Please help us also to remember that it's ONLY by the death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, the perfect Lamb, that our sins have been wiped clean and we have eternal life with You. Make us bold in sharing that Good News with everyone so that the lost can experience for themselves the perfect love of Jesus Christ. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Seek Unity

“I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.” John 17:21 NLT

In article published last week titled “ Boston Prepares For 10-Year Anniversary of Marathon Bombings,” Boston Mayor Michelle Wu made this statement, “Every year we come together on One Boston Day to remember the courage, strength, and resilience shown by our city’s people in 2013. As we mark 10 years, we will gather together in community on April 15 to remember the lives that were lost, the many injured, and the spirit of humanity displayed that day.” On April 15, 2013, two bombs went off at the Boston Marathon finish line, killing three spectators, including an 8-year-old boy. Hundreds of others were injured. “This year, our theme for the Boston Marathon is One Boston, symbolizing the unity and spirit witnessed after April 15, 2013,” Jack Fleming, B.A.A. president and CEO, said in a statement. 

And you know, as someone who had the blessing of running the Boston Marathon in 2014, the year after the bombings, and experienced the way the tragedy brought millions of people (runners and non-runners alike) together, I can tell you that unity is a great thing. Which is the very reason Jesus prayed that future believers everywhere would “all be one” just as He and the Father were one. In this way, He explained, the world would see the unusual and atypical unity of God’s people in their unwavering love for the Father and for each other—something that would cause the lost to believe in the Savior, the One who was sent and the One who inspired this type of odd and unconventional harmony and accord. 

So as we reflect on the relationship Jesus had with the Father, let us remember that unity isn’t uniformity my friend. We shouldn’t strive to all be the same but to love one another despite our differences; putting aside those things like ethnicity and social status to stand as “one” on even ground before the cross. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that believers show the world Who and what they believe in more by their actions than by their words. Help us to overlook the things that make us different from our brothers and sisters Lord as we seek unity in the family of Jesus. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Take Stock of your Running Habits

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about new beginnings. So barring the occasional cold morning or cool day that we will inevitably have in the next few weeks, it's safe to say that Spring is finally here! That means more daylight, more warmth, and more runners out on the road. Unfortunately, for many, that means more injuries too. Which is the very reason Spring is the time to take stock of your running habits and determine which ones need to be changed.

If this has you scratching your head and saying, "But Melissa, I really don't have any 'negative' running habits that I need to work on," check out these 10 bad runner habits as listed by Runner's World and how to break them. *With my two cents thrown in of course.

And here we go....

1. Running too much too soon. Coming back from an injury? Now's the time to take things slowly to stay healthy. Follow the standard rule of upping your mileage by only 10 percent each week. 

*This one can be really tricky this time of year because of all the races and the FOMO you’re sure to experience when your friends are all running them. If the race is short enough, consider walking it. If it's long, consider volunteering at it. You'll still be with your running buddies but you won't set back your recovery.

2. Refueling badly. After hard runs, grab a high-carb snack, then a meal with carbs and protein to rebuild muscle.

*Always keep nutrition bars, drinks or gels on hand so you won't be tempted to forgo this habit that's a very important step in the recovery process. And remember... the better and quicker you recover, the better you'll perform on your next run.

3. Forgoing SPF. Up to 20 minutes of sun exposure a day can be good for you—but you need sunscreen on runs longer than that (even when it's overcast). For more, check out these six essential skin care tips.

4. Ignoring your core. Participants in a Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research study who did core exercises four times a week for six weeks ran a 5K 30 seconds faster than those who didn't. Go here for 5 essential core workouts.

*A strong core will not only help you improve your race times on all distances but is crucial in the prevention of injuries. Believe it or not, A weak core can be correlated really to almost any running injury from plantar fasciitis to runner's knee to hip strains and lower back pain. See why those planks are so important? Few runners do enough core work so this is most likely something we can all improve on. 

5. Starting a race too fast. Hold your horses! Not holding back early in a race can ruin your PR hopes. Consider using a GPS watch so you'll know your pace—and be able to adjust it—before the one-mile mark.

*From the 5k to the marathon and all the training in between, using a GPS watch provides a lot of benefits. And the good news is, they are becoming very affordable. It's worth your time to do the research to see which one works best for you and to make the purchase. 

6. Being your own doctor. Runners tend to be hyperaware of their bodies, self-medicating with ice or ibuprofen to treat aches and pains. But minor injuries could turn into serious ones. Instead, see a doctor sooner rather than later. If the pain has lingered for three days, schedule an appointment.

*So this is the deal... every day that you put off getting a diagnosis is a day potentially lost for recovery. I speak from experience on this. Several years ago, I self-diagnosed myself with plantar fasciitis and treated it accordingly. After a week went by with no relief (it actually got worse), I finally went to a podiatrist and was diagnosed with peroneal tendonitis and put in a boot for six weeks. My delay in seeking professional help set me back a week.  

 7. Skipping stretching. It's okay to nix stretching before a run—in fact, static stretching when your muscles are cold is a no-no—but loosening your muscles post-run can help prevent injury. ​Holding yoga poses for minutes at a time releases tension in the body and the mind, and helps keep muscles flexible and stretched.

*Consider purchasing a massage gun as well. It's a great way to massage knots, reduce soreness, and increase range of motion.

8. Not getting enough zzzz's. Studies show logging too few hours of sleep can impair your running while compromising recovery, immunity, and mental sharpness. Because everyone requires different amounts of sleep, log your sleep time in your training journal and look for patterns specific to you. Once you figure out what works for you, shoot for that number—and try these tips to get even better sleep—as often as possible.

9. You never rest. Overtraining can lead to a host of problems, from injury and slower times to illness and a loss of motivation. Every training program should have a rest day plus two to three easy-effort days per week to balance tougher workout days. It's okay to cross train, but reward yourself with a day of total rest to give your muscles much-needed rebuilding and recovery time.

*If you're like me and view motion as daily medicine for staving off depression and anxiety, try aqua running on your day of total rest. It's a form of active recovery that will actually make you feel better than completely abstaining from movement altogether.

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10. Fixing it all. There's plenty of advice on how to become a better runner, but try to focus on what's manageable. Remember: You likely started running to feel better, not to become stressed.

*Always be sure that you seek advice from trusted sources. You'd be surprised at how many runners get led astray by bad advice. 

So there you have it friends. Spring is a great time to not only get outside and run but to "grow" as a runner. And let me tell you, we all have room for growth. I've been running for decades and I still learn new things all the time because I'm always seeking growth--something I hope you'll seek too. 

Happy Running!