Good habits are a great start

"Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future." Proverbs 19:20

There was an article published in the July, 2013 edition of Runners World showing the habits of highly effective runners and eaters. It said that people who take up running (and stick with it) and people who lose weight (and keep it off) have at least 7 habits in common. Interestingly enough, these same habits are also what Christians (those that keep the faith throughout their lifetime) have in common as well. Here they are:

1. They have a support network. 

Successful lifetime runners have a family that supports them and friends that share their passion. Successful Christians also need that support from fellow believers to keep them on track and hold them accountable. "Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another." Proverbs 27:17

2. They set goals. 

Setting goals gives you something to continually strive for as a runner. As a Christian, setting goals will encourage you to keep growing in your faith. "The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty." Proverbs 21:5

3. They keep track. 

Keeping track of what you eat and how much you run will help you achieve the goals you set. Similarly, being diligent in the care of your body will have you treating it the way God intended. "For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body." 1 Corinthians 6:20

4. They plan ahead. 

Going on vacation? Working late? They purposefully develop a plan for fitting in their run. Don't have time to do your bible study? Take your mp3 and listen to a podcast or the bible on an app. If it's important to you, you will find a way. "Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts." Psalm 119:2

5. They have reasonable expectations. 

Not every workout will be great. You won't always do your training as planned. Don't give up. Take a rest and start again refreshed. Christians aren't perfect. Don't dwell on the mistakes, repent and concentrate on not making them again. "The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again." Proverbs 24:16

6. They are consistent.

To improve at running, you have to put in the miles. Find what works for you to meet your goals and stick to it. To improve your relationship with Christ, you have to spend time in the Word. Take time daily to pray, worship and rest your spirit. "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

7. They see the value. 

Running and eating right should be a priority because of the way it makes you feel. As a Christian, you should see the priceless value of a life spent serving Christ. "Anyone who believes and is baptized will be saved. " Mark 16:16

There are varying opinions on the time period it takes to form a habit. One thing is certain though, if you do nothing, you will achieve nothing. If you do something long enough, you will see results. What's holding you back from changing your life for the better?

Heavenly Father, thank You for the way our minds, bodies and spirits work together. It's amazing how they strengthen each other. I pray that we would all desire to form new habits or strengthen the ones we have to make our physical and spiritual bodies stronger so that we may serve You better. May everything we do bring You glory and praise. In your precious name we pray Jesus, Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

I will run to You - Hillsong

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UdWGLm4zxEA