thorn in the flesh

 even though I have received such wonderful revelations from God. So to keep me from becoming proud, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger from Satan to torment me and keep me from becoming proud.  Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away. Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.  That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.  

2 Corinthians 12:7-10

If you've been running long enough, you will have a story or two to tell about injuries.  I, however, have a top 10 list going!  Seems like when one condition clears up, another one takes it's place.  

Yesterday I went to see my massage therapist.  Massages, in my opinion, are better than any therapy but that's another story.  While she was working on my piriformis, she asked why I wasn't talking about the pain.  It was then I realized that there was no pain.  It was gone!  So now I only have bursitis to worry about I sadly thought.  I was really questioning God on why I just couldn't be completely healed!!  Wouldn't I be a better witness?  Wouldn't I train better?  Couldn't I run more races?  The answer to that is a hard one.  By looking at the life of Paul, we can understand the reasons God may let us continue to have pains, struggles and trials.  And, yes, learn to be thankful for them.

When Paul, speaks of a "thorn in the flesh", he's not being literal.  We can't be sure if he is referring to a physical, spiritual or emotional affliction-or maybe something else entirely.  While no one knows for sure, Paul makes it clear that it was a real source of pain in his life.  

"To keep me from being conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations" is how Paul describes it.  So God's goal in allowing this thorn in the flesh was to keep Paul humble.  It must have been a constant reminder of the power of God.  Paul could have easily been overtaken with pride considering that he was commissioned personally by Him and had written, through the Holy Spirit,  a great deal of the New Testament.  

Just as with Job, God allowed Satan to torment Paul for God's own good purpose.  

No one likes to live in pain.  Paul cried out three times for God to help him.  But, instead of removing the problem, whatever it was, He gave Paul more overwhelming grace and compensating strength to deal with the problem.   Through this, Paul learned that "God's power is made perfect in weakness."

While we may never know what the "thorn" was in Paul's life, we can be certain it was something that, without faith and determination, would have greatly interfered in his ministry.  Through this pain, he became stronger by letting God show that his grace is all sufficient.  God has that same purpose for us all.  I've decided that I may never ever be free from pain or injury, but I will never let it stop me from serving God.  Like Paul, I will boast about my weaknesses so that Christ can work through me.  How about you?

Heavenly Father, thank you for being an all knowing and loving God.  Thank you for the pains, trials and struggles you allow us to go through to bring us closer to you.  May we experience your grace, power and strength through it all and sing your praises for changing us.  Amen.

2nd Annual Prairie Spirit Trail Ultra Race Saturday, 29 March 2014 Ottawa, Kansas Melissa and her teammates will endeavor to complete the 100-mile Ultra Race along the Prairie Spirit Trail. Please support them. Sponsor Team 413 at gracerunner413.blogspot.com or call 573-433-6684 or 573-774-4992 Missouri Team 413 Ambassador Melissa Martinez Members of TEAM 413 – GRACERUNNER MINISTRIES, INC. are raising funds to provide free Ultrasounds to women experiencing un-planned or crisis pregnancies in Pulaski County. All money raised will go towards training volunteer technicians and ultrasound maintenance at the Free Women’s Center. The Free Women’s Center empowers as many individuals as possible to make healthy life choices consistent with the intrinsic value of human life. The Center offers free and confidential pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, prenatal education, and financial & material assistance. Learn more at www.supportmyfwc.com.
Here's this link also for donations. https://www.egsnetwork.com/gift/gift.php?giftid=173BB95D-9D6E-4547-B8B6-0E9CE19D56F8.

We have a new life

 he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit.  Titus 3:5

If you've ever been to the starting line of a race, you will hear runners talking about a lot of things.  Usually it's about training and how prepared or not prepared the person is.  Sometimes, runners will ask each other about apparel, perhaps the shoes they are wearing or the newest fuelbelt they happen to have.  Don't even get a runner started on their hydration plan or gel schedule they have planned for the race.  And, never ever ever ask a runner about their Garmins unless you have time for a slide show! 

We runners share so much (so quickly and so easily) with each other on how to run and finish a race, but why are so many scared to share what's really important?  If you compliment a runner on their shoes, they're likely to go into a whole speech of where they were purchased, how much they weigh, how much better they are than another brand, etc.  And, they will share running tips freely and without hesitation.  Most runners will share all they know to help a fellow runner.  Are we, as Christians, doing the same for our brothers and sisters?

I remember a time premarathon (Anchorage marathon) standing in the porta potty line listening to runners chat about all kinds of things.  One young girl, in particular, caught my attention as I strained to hear her.  It was her first race and she was scared.  She didn't think she had trained hard enough, didn't think she could stay focused and on and on.  While there were a few people that offered tips, she was still visibly shaken and nervous.  I got out of line and went up to her and asked her if I could pray with her.  Before she could answer, I grasped her hands and told her that what she lacked in strength, Jesus could provide.  We then prayed together.  Yes!  Right there in the bathroom line.  While people definitely stared, they did so with reverence. The people around us stopped talking.  I'm sure there were many there that wished they had the boldness to step out in faith, and the confidence that God would provide the words they needed.  

When God saved us, He gave us a new life and a new birth through the Holy Spirit.  What you lack in yourself, the spirit will provide.  If you surrender your will to His, the Holy Spirit will give you the words, compassion and the means to show Christ to others no matter where you are.  God doesn't care!  Just don't waste an opportunity to help someone.  Finishing the race is a great thing but it means nothing if we don't glorify Him through it. 

Heavenly Father, Thank you for another day to praise you. Please provide the opportunity to share you with the lost.  Please take away our fears of rejection and fill us with your Holy Spirit which will give us all we need.  Amen.  

2nd Annual Prairie Spirit Trail Ultra Race Saturday, 29 March 2014 Ottawa, Kansas Melissa and her teammates will endeavor to complete the 100-mile Ultra Race along the Prairie Spirit Trail. Please support them. Sponsor Team 413 at gracerunner413.blogspot.com or call 573-433-6684 or 573-774-4992 Missouri Team 413 Ambassador Melissa Martinez Members of TEAM 413 – GRACERUNNER MINISTRIES, INC. are raising funds to provide free Ultrasounds to women experiencing un-planned or crisis pregnancies in Pulaski County. All money raised will go towards training volunteer technicians and ultrasound maintenance at the Free Women’s Center. The Free Women’s Center empowers as many individuals as possible to make healthy life choices consistent with the intrinsic value of human life. The Center offers free and confidential pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, prenatal education, and financial & material assistance. Learn more at www.supportmyfwc.com.
Here's this link also for donations. https://www.egsnetwork.com/gift/gift.php?giftid=173BB95D-9D6E-4547-B8B6-0E9CE19D56F8.

Why is this Christian life so hard?

I absolutely love this explanation.  I hope it feeds your soul the way it did mine.

Daily Word from Pastor Graham

January 29, 2014

I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 

Galatians 2:20

A woman came to me one time after a Sunday service at our church and said, “Pastor Graham, there’s something I wanted to ask you about. I’ve been facing a lot of challenges in my life recently, and I’m wondering this: Why is the Christian life so hard?”

So I looked in the eye and told her, “The Christian life isn’t hard; it’s impossible. You can’t live it in your own strength and trying to do it on your own is an exercise in futility. There’s no way you can follow Christ on your own. Only God, living through you, can do that.”

The truth is that when you know Jesus Christ as your Savior, the work of following Him and becoming more like Him is done by the Holy Spirit living inside of you. You’re literally changed from the inside out. And it’s that change that enables you to be like Christ in how you think and what you do.

Stop trying to live the Christian life on your own. Instead, let the Spirit of Christ in you have control… not just resident, but president in your life… not dormant, but dominant. That’s what it means to be filled by the Spirit. It’s putting yourself aside and allowing Him to control your actions and thoughts.

LIVE THE CHRISTIAN LIFE BY SUBMITTING YOURSELF TO THE SPIRIT OF GOD AND GIVING HIM CONTROL OF YOUR THOUGHTS AND ACTIONS.

Blessed

2nd Annual Prairie Spirit Trail Ultra Race Saturday, 29 March 2014 Ottawa, Kansas Melissa and her teammates will endeavor to complete the 100-mile Ultra Race along the Prairie Spirit Trail. Please support them. Sponsor Team 413 at Gracerunner413.blogspot.com or call 573-433-6684 or 573-774-4992 Missouri Team 413Ambassador Melissa Martinez Members of TEAM 413 – GRACERUNNER MINISTRIES, INC. are raising funds to provide free Ultrasounds to women experiencing un-planned or crisis pregnancies in Pulaski County. All money raised will go towards training volunteer technicians and ultrasound maintenance at the Free Women’s Center. The Free Women’s Center empowers as many individuals as possible to make healthy life choices consistent with the intrinsic value of human life. The Center offers free and confidential pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, prenatal education, and financial & material assistance. Learn more at www.supportmyfwc.com.
Here's this link also for donations. https://www.egsnetwork.com/gift/gift.php?giftid=173BB95D-9D6E-4547-B8B6-0E9CE19D56F8.

"I have glorified You on the earth.  I have finished the work which You have given me to do."  John 17:4

After three days off, I finally got to run today!  90 minutes of running with no pain or swelling.  I'm telling you God works miracles.  After no pain mile after mile, I wanted to lay prostate in the middle of the road thanking God for his healing!!!  Thought the better of it as a semi passed me at 55 though.  Better to praise standing for sure.

 As I was finishing up and headed into the gym to stretch, a friend approached me and asked why I wasn't still resting my injury.  I explained that I had prayed on it and felt that today was the day.  He then asked me whether I was afraid of doing permanent damage?  So this is what I told him, " I would rather enter heaven physically broken and tired after having led others to Christ, than to enter with a whole body having done nothing to further the kingdom.  God called me to this and I believe that He, alone, will sustain me through the works He has planned for me."  Needless to say, my friend smiled and said nothing except, "Well, good luck with that."

Some people just don't get it, I laughed to myself.  Consider yourself blessed to be called by God.  Whatever that calling may be, whether sharing at work, helping feed the hungry or missionary work, thank Him for blessing you so that you may glorify Him. What an honor to serve!!!

Happy running!!

Heavenly Father, thank you for your healing power and for equipping us with the things we need to complete the work you have called us to do.  Help us to remember that your strength alone is all we need.  And, if we are unsure the plans you have for us, let us surrender and allow you to open our eyes to what that plan is.   Amen.  

Patience

Dear brothers and sisters, whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy.   For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.  So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything.  James 1:2-4

Most of us runners can probably be described as "hyper" or at least a bit on the overdoing side of things.  It takes a different kind of mindset to repeatedly crave to push ourselves to the limit and then some.   It's our release of sorts and a way to calm our minds.  So, taking three days off has been very hard for me.  After last Saturday's race, I had a flaming case of bursitis.  The back of my right ankle was very swollen and bleeding inside.  I could actually feel the lumps along the tendon (burst bursa sacs I assume).  It felt like a blowtorch was set on it accompanied by a wire brush.  A result of too many miles too quick and a trail run in shoes that rubbed the back of my ankles.  I knew this was not going to be pretty.  But, I pushed on and ran all week through the pain.

Then, my most amazing friend (Chris Gillespie) who is an athletic trainer for the Georgia Bulldogs had a talk with me.  Since he is a runner and a Christian, I know he will only tell me to take the day off if it is an absolute must.  And.... you guessed it.  Time off=Unhappy Melissa.  I knew I would have to really stay focused and not question God.  And to remember all the times He has seen me through.  If this 100 mile race is to be finished, God will make it happen.  But this requires patience of which I normally have very little of.  Surprisingly, by focusing on God, the time has passed quickly and healing has taken place.  Praise God!

Don't resent troubles when they come.  Pray for wisdom; God WILL supply all you need to face adversity.  He will give you the patience you need and keep you strong in times of trial.   But, there's a catch.  You have to have faith in Him to receive these blessings.  Living faith is more than just a statement, it's a way of life. By faith, you wait in expectation and the hope that God loves you, is looking out for you, and is planning something better for you.  Remember, faith and character are best matured by the way you react under pressure.  It is easy to be kind to others when things are going well.  But, what about when they're not?   When you begin to feel that God is breaking you, remember that He is building you!!  Through the trials and pain, He is making you stronger.  Through His strength, not your's.

So, as I have been reminding myself, be patient.  God's got this.  Happy running!!

Heavenly Father, thank you for the lessons you are teaching us through our trials, struggles and pain.  May your presence be felt so we know we are not alone.  Please give us the knowledge to overcome these obstacles or the strength to endure them.  Thank you Lord for loving us.  Amen.  

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Isaiah 40:29-31

29 He gives strength to the weary    and increases the power of the weak.30 Even youths grow tired and weary,    and young men stumble and fall;31 but those who hope in the Lord    will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;    they will run and not grow weary,    they will walk and not be faint.

I must add that it's at my weakest that I feel the strongest.  Stronger for allowing Christ to guide my steps and be all that I need.  And stronger for surrendering my will for His.  There's something about recognizing and embracing your dependence on Jesus that is indescribable.  It's in your greatest moments of weakness that you realize He is all you need and He is strong enough to get you through anything this world can dish out.

Heavenly Father, thank you for being sufficient to supply all my needs.  Thank you for the trials, the pain, and the injuries you have given me so that I have felt your healing power and can draw from it the next time I need it and can have faith that you will heal me again.  Thank you for those lessons in the quiet times when I felt I couldn't go on.  I will forever follow you and I trust your will for my life.  Amen.  

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Study: Hidden Health Benefits of Ultrarunning

Posted on January 21, 2014

If you’re an ultrarunner, you have probably noticed that our sport has become a little more mainstream in the past year or two. Not 100% mainstream, yet, but definitely more normal. Among runners, the idea of pushing past the marathon is no longer that insane, and many have embraced the idea or added it to their bucket list.

With that new acceptance comes studies and examinations from the rest of the world:

“Is ultrarunning healthy?”

“Are these runners going to live long?”

Here is a recent example: “Is Running 100 Miles Bad For Your Health“? via FoxNews.com

Ironically, the article takes a turn many runners wouldn’t have expected by stating, “No, actually, it’s not that bad for your health.” However, I expected that answer, because for some strange reason, the critics are starting to give us a break. But unfortunately, I have to disagree with it. No, I do not, in fact, think that 100 miles is particularly good for anyone’s physical health. Actually, I don’t care too much one way or the other.

SHOCKER. I know. 

I applaud this article, author, those conducting the study, and several others out there like it, for not giving the sport a bad name. However, I can’t help but think this: You’re studying the wrong aspect!

You see, anyone who has actually run a solid stretch of 100 miles straight –and felt the resulting pains, aches, and damages to the body– can tell you outright that it isn’t the optimum form of healthy exercise. In fact, most of us will shout, “I’m never doing this ever again” 90 miles into the crazy thing. And who could blame us? Crap hurts, man..bad! 

And we know why it hurts so bad! It hurts because it’s really not that good for you. Duh. That’s a no brainer. We don’t need a medical team to tell us how stupid we are.

Running for an entire day, and often longer, is horrible on the body. Not only are we killing off brain cells when we go over 36 hours of wakefulness, but we’re also completely overusing and cannibalizing our muscles, placing intense stress on our skeletal systems, and singlehandedly destroying our endocrine system.  This isn’t from a study, people, this is from gathered personal experience. Not only do I feel sore and injured after a race, but my hormones are completely out of sync for at least a month. My sleep patterns get screwed, and I have to recover for roughly 10 days before I feel normal again. I’m not a picture of health post 100, and neither is anyone else.

But here’s the REAL surprise: We like that!!! We LIKE that it feels terrible. We know we are destroying our bodies, and we are perfectly okay with it!

WHY? How could you possibly be okay with that?!!

I’ll tell you why! It’s because running 100 miles is NOT about pursuing optimum health!

Let’s get real, here. If we were running for health related purposes, we would have stopped 5 miles in! We would have gone to the dang park, walked our dog, maybe cranked out some pushups and pullups, and gone back home.

So why are we doing it? Why are we out there destroying ourselves for fun? 

The answer is hidden somewhere in that bodily destruction they analyze to death. It’s in the beat down. It’s in the last miles of that awful race when we experience the rawest forms of human experience & emotion. We do this because it feels good not to quit at something. Humankind was made to suffer, and deep down we know that. We KNOW that long suffering produces the discipline and character we strive for.

The reward isn’t a healthier body! We aren’t looking for 6 pack abs and better cardio here! The reward is The After! It’s the person who comes out of that race. A newer, stronger, person refined by fire and pain. A runner who refuses to accept no for an answer–just to make it to that finish line– is a tougher person. A fighter in life. We know this–we know this because we’ve felt it.

Running 100 miles straight is a huge life lesson rolled into a day of running. It teaches you things you never thought you’d learn about yourself. It forces you to face situations and ideas you need to overcome in life. It allows you to work out kinks and weaknesses in your own personally flawed character.  It carves out a deep lasting well of patience, self control, and long suffering. When balanced and prioritized appropriately in life, it helps create a sense of accomplishment, satisfaction, happiness, and well being. The benefits of running long ultramarathons extend far beyond running, and well into the entire spectrum of life.

While I’m sure there are some physical health benefits to be gained in there somewhere, the truth is that no one doing these things really gives a flip. Spend a day running in the mountains alone, or with your friends, and you’ll see that no one is concerned about their Vo2 Max or threshold level.

The world will never stop analyzing the physical, because we are a world obsessed with outward image and prolonging life.

“Will this make me fitter?”

“Will this help me live longer?”

“Will this cure disease?”

I don’t know, and I don’t care. I just really like how incredible my body feels during a run. And I bet any runner would tell you the same thing. I love the amazing sense of accomplishment I feel after finishing something as stupid as running 100 miles straight.

So no, it’s probably not that healthy for me. I’m probably not going to have knees later. Or maybe I will, and maybe I will have some amazing cardio benefits, and a bangin’ body at 90— but all of that is simply irrelevant.

I am here, and I am now, and I am present. I enjoy the miles, and I enjoy the benefits of the pain.

So if you’re looking to analyze the health benefits of a runner tackling 100 miles, don’t examine their heart muscle. Don’t analyze their body fat, or compare their longevity to others.  Just lace up your kicks, and run a few miles with them on a beautiful blue sky day.

You’ll learn all you ever need to know.

the persistent prayer

"Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.  He said: “In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared what people thought.  And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, ‘Grant me justice against my adversary.  “For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, ‘Even though I don’t fear God or care what people think,  yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won’t eventually come and attack me!’” And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says.  And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off?  I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?” Luke 18:1-8

The parable of the persistent widow shows a woman who was desperate and would not give up.  She knew what she wanted and would stop at nothing to get it.  There are several very important things to focus on in this story,

•  While the widow had to to go a corrupt judge, we can go to our Heavenly Father. 
•  She was a stranger to this judge while we are God's children.
• The widow had no access to the judge while we have constant access to God through the Holy Spirit.
• The widow came to a court of law.  We come to the throne.
• She had no lawyer.  We have Jesus as our advocate.
• She had to wear down the judge before he would even listen to her.  We can be certain that God hears our requests.  

Ever feel like this poor widow in need of an answered prayer.  Do you ask and ask until your requests are heard and granted?  Be assured that if your requests are holy and in line with God's will, they will be answered.  But, as Jesus illustrated, persistence pays off.  God wants us to be familiar with Him.  Sometimes, we need to keep on asking to show that we will continue to have faith and follow God even when it seems He isn't listening.

So, don't stop praying.  Keep pressing on and running the good race praying constantly.   It's at the time that you feel like giving up that God is going to give in.  Just as being a good runner takes persistence, so does this. It's worth it.  

Heavenly Father, thank you for being everything we need.  Thank you for hearing our prayers and being just and faithful.  We pray that we hold on to your promises and pray with perseverance that you will answer our prayers according to your will.  Amen.

Are you crazy?!!!

 If we are “out of our mind,” as some say, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you.  For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.  And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. 2 Corinthians 5:13-15

Ever been called crazy for running too much (try running with TEAM413, you'll be called it "out of your mind" often!)?  Or perhaps being overzealous in some other activity? What about being crazy for serving God?  Do you love him that much?

Everything that Paul and his friends did was to honor God.  While the fear of God certainly motivated them, it was the love of Christ that kept them "pressing on".  Their love was so great that they couldn't do anything less than give them their lives. They knew, for certain, that Jesus had given His life for their sake.  And they knew that Jesus did this out of his unselfishness.  He had the power of Heaven in his grasp but still "died for us all".  Yes, that means you!!  All this for us!  

Because of this, we are to be dead to our old selves.  Like Paul, we should no longer live to please others, we should spend our lives pleasing Christ.   Crazy? Out of our mind?  To the world, yes.  But, to followers of Jesus, it makes perfect sense!!  So... in everything you say and in everything you do, let it bring glory to God.  That includes your running.  If it's not bringing glory to God, it's only running.  Don't miss the opportunity to use your gift to show others the power of Christ in your life.

Heavenly Father, please remind us that the world's view of us is not what matters.  Let us not confuse the two as we desire to always put you first. Help us to serve you with all we have ignoring what the world says we should be.  Amen.

Here's another for your playlist my runner friends.  Enjoy!!!!

Press on

The Lord God is our light and protector.  He gives us grace and glory.  No good thing will the Lord withhold from those who do what is right.  O Lord Almighty, happy are those who trust  in you."  Psalm 84:11-12

Many of us think that we trust God, especially when things are going good.   What about when they're not?  God doesn't promise to give us everything we think is good, but he will not withhold what is permanently good.  This sometimes means that things happen in our lives that cause us to question God.  But, they happen to strengthen our faith when He, once again, uses these situations to make our faith stronger.

I was very aware of that today as I ran day 7 with a raging case of tendinitis.  I reminded God that I had a race coming up (as if he didn't know) and I needed healing asap.  God doesn't need me to tell Him what I need! Even after all the times He has carried me through, I am still prone to doubt.  We all are.  He knows we're not perfect and knows we need him to be our light and protector.  So, in days, when your faith seems small, keep praying and press on.  Don't give up!

Heavenly Father, please help all of us struggling with our faith today.  Remind us that you will not withhold any good thing from us and that, through, these struggles, you are making us the person you need us to be.  Amen.

Running for a cause

“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.  But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face,  so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.  Matthew 6:6-18

I oftentimes see runners complain about the training they must put in to run a race.  And, oh, how we runners can go on about the pain and sacrifice it takes!!  This baffles me since running and racing are choices.  We can either do it or not.  So, if you make a choice, why do you complain about it?  Likewise, if you are called (praise Him if you are chosen) to complete a task, why would you complain about that?  Jesus commends acts of self-sacrifice done sincerely and for the right reasons not the desire to be praised for them.  Be glad He didn't call you to run 100 miles!!!!

I thought about that today as I put in another day of training for the March 29th 100 mile race.  It was so cold today that my eyelashes and facemask froze, not to mention some unmentionable parts of my body.  I had a choice then just as I had before I signed up for the race.  Complain and quit or suck it up and go on. This is a run I prayed about before I registered and it's a race I feel God calling me to complete.  If, even one person hears the message, every mile will have been worth it. 

What was my decision today?  No complaining for me! I will forever praise Him and I thank Him for choosing me to serve Him.  I thank Him for the ability to run these miles and for all the people in my life who make it possible.  So.... next time I feel like complaining or frowning I will take those complaints and file them in the SHUT UP, YOU ARE BLESSED AND GET OVER IT filing cabinet. Then I will smile and raise my hands in praise.  I choose to complete every mile with joy and I choose to be the runner God wants me to be.  I truly believe that once I do my best, God will do the rest. 

Heavenly Father, please give us joy in our hearts and strength in our bodies to do what you have called us to do.  Let us remember that we are all called to do different things but they are equally important.  Please bless us as we strive to bring you glory and complete our tasks.  In your name Jesus, Amen. 

We will be raising money for the Pulaski County Free Women's Center, supportmyfwc.com.  Part of their mission statement is this:  The Free Women’s Center of Pulaski County (FWC) empowers as many individuals as possible to make healthy life choices consistent with the intrinsic value of human life, and serves as a leader in the community at large for positive sexual values.  

 

Last year alone they saved 58 babies by providing the mothers with free ultrasounds.  We will be raising $5000 to cover the expenses needed to continue doing this.  With God, all things are possible!!!

Sponsor sheets will be available this week!  If you feel like you can and want to help, please contact me.  

The narrow gate

Matthew 7:13–14

 

13 g“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy1 that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. 14 For the gate is narrow and hthe way is hard that leads to life, and ithose who find it are few.

 

Saturday, as I was navigating the narrow and rocky trail during my run, I began wondering about the road to heaven.  This trail was narrow and it was hard.  It took perseverance and God's strength and guidance to complete it.  But just how narrow is the gate and how hard is the way that leads to eternal life?

 

We need to first understand that Jesus is the door we must enter into Heaven and so we must follow Him.  There is no other way because He alone is the "the way, the truth and the life." John 14:6.    There is one requirement to enter the narrow road - faith in Jesus.   Staying focused and on the right road is the hard part.  We must go around sin's potholes and temptations telling us to "exit now."  Those of us seeking to "run the good race" and enter through the narrow gate must do so through struggle and strain, like an athlete straining for the finish line, all muscles hurting and completely drained of all strength and energy and recognizing that salvation comes from God, and only God. 

 

  On the other hand, there are no requirements to enter the broad road and the way is easy.  Satan paved it with worldly attractions and compromise for those unwilling to take up their cross and follow Jesus.  Unfortunately, this will be the road most traveled.  There are no rules and no requirements to enter in.  When a person refuses to deny themselves and follow Jesus, the flesh will follow comfort and pleasure.

 

Living for Christ may not be popular but it is true and it is right.  Believing in Jesus is the only way. 

 

Heavenly Father, Thank you for providing a way to heaven.  While I know the road will not be easy help me to stay focused and remember that you are walking it with me.  Amen.

 

Friends

 "There are "friends" who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother."  Proverbs 18:24

 In the racing world, I have seen all kind of "friends".  The ones who will knock you down to get a PR (personal record) and those that will forgo a finish if they see someone in need.  What kind of runner you are really determines where your heart is at.

I'm ashamed to say, I used to be the one who would do anything for a PR.  That was before I trusted God completely.  And, yes, that means with my running. In doing so, I have found greater joy in helping and watching other people achieve their goals than I do in reaching mine.  God continues to bless me too though!
Yesterday, I met two runners that I had run with at the 2013 Mother Road Marathon.  One I had encouraged as he struggled near the end, and one I followed for several miles and prayed for.  At the end, I waited for James to make sure he finished (I met him at the expo and knew it was his first and he was very nervous).  As he came across the finish line, with tears in his eyes, he hugged me.  I never thought I would see him or the girl I was following ever again.  Well, she was there (and took second) and James took first place!!!  So very nice to see them again. We vowed to keep in touch and, God willing, run together again.

Don't ever take for granted how words of encouragement can affect someone.  And, in your pursuit for your PR, don't forget that your ability and gifts come from God.  He gives it and He can take it away.  Slow down and be the runner God wants you to be helping your "friends" along the way.

Heavenly Father, please be with me today and help me be an encourager to those in need.  Give me the boldness and the words to help someone today.  Thank you for the air in my lungs and the ability to run.  May I never take that for granted.  In your name Jesus, Amen.  

Hope and her friend working the registration table with Alexis Varner and Maggie  

Prerace with these two sweetie pies.

Special attention-getting her cast signed.

And I'm off!!

The girls passing out water and gatorade.

Love how these girls show true friendship by helping, with a smile on their face, and a heart full of true love for the runners.  

My "friend" Cherryl Shores.  Met her a few years ago and always love seeing her.  And, she's always witnessing in her TEAM413 shirt.  

Commitment

And if you do not carry your own cross and follow me, you cannot be my disciple. “But don’t begin until you count the cost. For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it?    Luke 14:27-29

I am never more committed for an upcoming task than when I fully commit to it, announce that commitment and then begin working towards that goal.  With that said, I am now signed up for a 100 mile race on March 29.  Pretty crazy is what I said too.  Being in a ministry that shares our faith on the run (our pulpit is the race course), I run a lot of races most people would think too difficult to attempt.

But when a person decides to follow Christ, we know that means total submission.  In Jesus' time, if a Roman was convicted of a crime, the person was forced to carry the cross on which he/she would die.  This showed submission to Rome and warned others to do the same.  And, when a builder doesn't count the cost, or underestimates it, the building may be left uncompleted.  Too many times, Christians fail to count the cost of their commitment and leave the building vacant and unfinished. 

Following Christ does not mean a trouble free life.  On the contrary, if we are true followers, we are instructed to share our faith and bring others to Christ.  For some, this may require overseas missionary work, for others stepping out in their office.  Whatever you are called to do may not be pleasant.  But, God never said it would be easy.  He did, however, promise to be with us through it. 

The training for this run will not be easy and the race will be even harder.  But, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."  I have submitted my life to Christ and I will go wherever He leads me.  And, like I always say, if even one person was reached, it was worth every mile.

Submit your life wholly to Christ and let Him show you the plans He has for you.  It won't always be easy but it will be worth it all!! 

Heavenly Father,  Please help me count the costs of following you.  Please give me the strength I will need to complete the task before me and to finish the race.  Help me to remember that you are always with me guiding my steps and keeping me safe.  Amen. 

Wisdom for Good Health

Wisdom for Good Health

Alone time

"After he had dismissed them, he went  up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night he was there alone,"  Matthew 14:23

One of the things I treasure most about my daily runs is my alone time with the Father.  Not only is it just us but it's just us with no distractions.  No television, no children, no cell phones, no facebook, no twitter, no nothing.  Just us.  Talking and enjoying each other as friends do.  When's the last time you spent time alone (and without distraction) with God?

Seeking solitude was an important priority for Jesus.  He made room in his busy schedule to be alone with the Father.  He knew that spending time with God in prayer nurtures that vital relationship He needed, and we all need, to give us strength to meet life's challenges and struggles. 

You don't have to run 10 miles to get this.  Although I highly recommend it:).  Find a place of solitude.  For Jesus it was a mountain.  For me, it's usually a gravel road out in the country.  It doesn't matter where.  Develop the discipline of spending time alone with God.  It will help you grow spiritually and prepare you for the day and those to come. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for being there when I need you.  Please help me to put you first and make my alone time with you a priority.  Amen.

Running from your demons?

Being a part of a running ministry and being around runners so often, I have heard many different reasons why a person started running and/or keeps on running.  Not surprising, the most common thing I hear is "I'm running from my demons."  Take a good look at the picture above.  While we don't look like that when we put on God's armor, we have the same protection.  Except for one thing...on our back.  There is no armor mentioned for your backside.  Why?!!!

That is simple.  We were not meant to turn our backs to our enemy, aka Satan and his ploys (debt, divorce, depression, addictions, sickness, etc.) . We were made and equipped, by God himself, to fight any attacks Satan may throw at us. So you see, running away from your demons works for a while. But, eventually, you will get tired and weary and you WILL face attack EVERY day. We all will. And without God's armor, you are defenseless!!! Remember this, the next time you are feeling caught in the struggle and feel like running... STOP! Put on the Armor, face your enemy, and fight.  God gave us the Holy Spirit within us and armor surrounding us to defeat the devil. 

No more running from your demons... fight them, defeat them and run into the arms of Jesus.  Every day. 

Dear Lord, please help me to remember that I am not powerless in the struggles of this world.  Thank you for giving me everything I need to fight off the evil one and to lead a life filled with your grace.  Amen.

The Armor of God-Ephesians 6

¹⁰ Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. ¹¹ Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. ¹² For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. ¹³ Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. ¹⁴ Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, ¹⁵ and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. ¹⁶ In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. ¹⁷ Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
¹⁸ And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. ¹⁹ Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, ²⁰ for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.