Be a Person Others can Take Inspiration From

“When the time drew near for David to die, he gave a charge to Solomon his son. I am about to go the way of all the earth,” he said. “So be strong, act like a man,” 1 Kings 2:1-2 NIV

In an inspiring story titled “80-Year-Old Woman Runs Record-Breaking 5K”published last week, it was reported that Decorated masters runner Jan Holmquist just added another new record to her resume. Clocking a time of 24:08 at the Great Bear Run in Massachusetts (which also doubled as the official 5K of the New England Road Race Grand Prix Series), she improved the age group record for the 5K distance by over a minute and ran the race next to her granddaughter. Holmquist just turned 80, and it was her birthday wish to make 5K history. When a CBS News reporter asked Holmquist, who has been an avid runner since her late 30s, if she was “too old for this,” she simply laughed, and advised anyone else looking to take inspiration from her “...to start. Just set a goal.”

And you know, when it comes to being someone others can take inspiration from, “when the time drew near for David to die, he gave a charge to Solomon his son” that we would all do well to follow. He told him to “be strong” and “act like a man.” David, a man known for his great courage, leadership skills, and a steadfast love for God despite his many imperfections, went on to explain that a man of God would know God’s laws and obey them. Doing so, David told Solomon, would cause him to prosper in all he did wherever he went. Do you just love that or what? 

So let us do all that we can to know God’s laws and obey them my friend. Our unworldly behavior by doing so will not only set us apart from nonbelievers but will undoubtedly inspire many people to seek the One David loved with all his heart. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that men and women of God will act differently than the world does, and by doing so will be people that others can take inspiration from. Help us to seek and love You with all our hearts, minds, and souls Lord. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!