Too busy?

"And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever." 1 John 2:17

While I was at an airport waiting to board a flight to a race this summer, I sat quietly and examined the crowd. Most everyone I saw was busy. They were busy on their laptops. They were busy on their phones or they were busy trying to find something to busy themselves with. Meanwhile, I watched an older couple struggle  to carry their luggage while those around them were too busy to notice. There was a mother, arms full and kids in tow, struggling to pick up the doll her toddler had dropped but everyone was too busy to stop and help. Wow. It made me wonder. How did we get so busy anyway?

Corrie Ten Boom once wrote, "If the devil cannot make us bad, he will make us busy." And being busy certainly can distract us from doing God's work can't it? Which is why we should daily ask ourselves whether the"things" we are so busy doing have any eternal impact? Other than working to provide for those things we need, are you busy working for "things" that you really don't need? Like a better TV, a bigger house or junk to fill your garage and storage shed? The Bible clearly reminds us that none of these "things" will last when it says, "the world is passing away along with its desires".

So wouldn't today be a great day to become busy focusing on God's will for our lives rather than our own instead? Taking the time to serve and help others will surely have an eternal impact on a world that is desperately in need of knowing Jesus Christ.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the many blessings you have given us. Most of us have far more things than we need or can ever use. Help us to see what work is truly in need of being done and to put You first on our list of priorities. Give us perspective on what's truly important Lord. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

The price of being too busy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k5pgIQytNto

Personal best

"The LORD directs our steps, so why try to understand everything along the way?" Proverbs 20:24 (NLT)

Katie Desiderio crossed the finish line of the Via Half Marathon in September differently than she ever thought she would. The normally competitive runner admits that she would usually be in an all-out sprint with eyes laser-focused on the clock, but joyfully crossed hand-in-hand with her four-year-old daughter, Lilly-running at Lilly's pace rather than her own. What brought about the change? After suffering injuries from a car accident, Katie was unable to perform as she once did and said, "instead of focusing on the personal best time I wouldn't meet, I decided to spend 13.1 miles reflecting on the meaning of being at your personal best." 

Isn't it funny how trials and setbacks can help us redefine what we call a "personal best"? What I find even stranger still is how the very situation, difficulty or affliction that we think makes no sense is actually a part of God's wonderful plan for us. You see, the Bible clearly tells us that, "The Lord directs our steps," and the way He, in his infinite wisdom, orchestrates that path you and I will never understand. But isn't the outcome always more amazing than you and I could have ever imagined?!!

So today, if you you're feeling confused or frustrated about what's happening in your life or the events around you, remember that there are many things we will never understand other than this... God is working all things out so that we can learn what it truly means to be the "personal best" He designed us to be-exchanging our earthly goals for His eternal ones. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for placing those obstacles, struggles and troubles in our lives that we feel will overtake us. It's through these that we learn to trust you more knowing that our only hope is found in you. Each time that we look back and see how you've used a situation like this to direct our steps guiding us to be more like you, may we thank you admitting that we never understood it. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Trust in You - Lauren Daigle

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qv-SXz_exKE

http://www.runnersworld.com/other-voices/chasing-a-new-personal-best?cid=OB-_-RW-_-TB

Just avoid it

"You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!" 2 Timothy 3:1-5

To avoid hearing the stories of corruption, cheating and lying within our upcoming elections, I do believe a person would have to be living under a rock or on a remote desert island. But sadly, those same types of stories are also the ones dominating this weeks running news headlines. Between the NYRR introducing a new drug testing initiative to deter cheating and the announcement that Rita Jeptoo, female winner of the 2013 Chicago and 2014 Boston Marathon, would be stripped of her titles and suspended for four years due to doping, it seems dishonesty and greed are everywhere. Is it me or are these types of stories and actions becoming more frequent?

Sadly, the answer to that question is an unequivocal yes. The exact behaviors like pride, hatred and recklessness to name a few, that Paul warned Timothy to expect from people in the "last days" are the very ones our society is exhibiting today. So why the warning to "Stay away from people like that!"? Paul wasn't telling Timothy to refrain from witnessing and preaching to them but rather to avoid developing relationships with them-knowing all too well how easy it is to become like the people we most associate with.

Doing the right thing and following Christ will continue to get harder. Paul assured us of that when he wrote, "in the last days, there will be very difficult times." But as Pastor Greg Laurie writes, "If you are seeking to obey the Lord, expect opposition. Expect obstacles. Expect difficulties. But also expect God to see you through."

Heavenly Father, thank you for the reminder of what to expect in the last days. Help us to be a shining example of Christ to the world avoiding any people or behaviors that might lead us to do otherwise. Give us the discernment and the strength to go against the crowd and take a stand for what we believe in. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Believer - Capital Kings

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbqudfRR058

Time to move?

"The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.“I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing." Genesis 12:1,2

On Monday it was announced that 20-year-old Mary Cain, an outstanding and award winning middle distance runner, who had moved to Portland as a teen to be coached by Alberto Salazar was now permanently returning to New York. On going back for good and her choice to return to her previous coach, John Henwood, she said, "It’s good to have somebody who is there to see you day-to-day, even hop into some runs with you. Having John be able to really take control of my training, I think it will be really imperative for my success over the next few years.”

You know, when it comes to being successful, sometimes moving is the exact thing we need to do. Abram experienced that full well when he was told by the Lord to leave his home and his friends and set out for the land God would show him. You see, it was there that God promised to make his name great. But first Abram had to obey and walk away-exchanging the certain, his country and his people, for the uncertain. By faith, Abram went where he was called and indeed received God's blessing becoming the father of a great nation and a blessing to many generations to come.

Perhaps you feel God leading you to a different place today? Maybe a new city, a new home, a new relationship or a new career? Somewhere where you will be of greater service and usefulness to Him? Like Abram, don't let the comfort of your present surroundings keep you from claiming the future blessings God wants to give you in a new place or position.

Heavenly Father, thank you for always leading us where we will serve you best. If today we feel you calling us away from what we know to be secure and comfortable, help us to be obedient knowing that what you call us to will always be better than what you have led us from. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

I will follow - Chris Tomlin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ohvhmGSfxI

Burn big

"For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline." 1 Timothy 1:6,7

On Monday, October 24, at 5:30 p.m. ultrarunner Pete Kostelnick climbed the steps of New York's City Hall to officially break the world record for the fastest run across America. The 29-year-old left San Francisco's City Hall on September 12 and headed east for 3,067 miles to finish in 42 days, 6 hours and 30 minutes shattering the previous record by more than four days. Wow! He certainly has a gift doesn't he? But to accomplish his goal, Kostelnick had to stay focused and disciplined-sleeping in an RV on the route until 3 a.m. then running 40 miles each day before breaking for lunch and then continuing for 30 miles or more into the night. 

You know, as Christians, you and I could learn a lot from this ultrarunner. Pete Kostelnick, realizing he had a gift, did his absolute best with what God have him. He was focused, strong, disciplined and unwilling to let anything stop him. And these characteristics are the exact ones Paul urged Timothy to display when he reminded him to "fan into flame" the gift God gave him, developing it and using it to the best of his ability-never forgetting that, through the Holy Spirit, Timothy had strength, love and the power to be bold and self-disciplined. 

Praise God not all of us have been given the gift of running long distances right? But every person, that means you and me, has been given special and unique talents and God's requirement is the same for us all... to "fan into flame the gift" God has given us that the world might be a witness of God's amazing power through us. I don't know about you, but I don't want my gift to be a small flame, I want it to be a bonfire!

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving each one of us unique gifts to be used to bring you glory. Help us, through prayer, to determine what our talent is and to work to develop it as we use it to serve others and bring you glory. Lord, let our focus be on being the best we can be at whatever it is you have called us to do. If we are called to dig ditches, let us be the best at it. If we are called to serve food in the lunchroom, let us show your love as we do it. Whatever it is, may we strive to do our best. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Turbo Style - Beckah Shae

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QeML00xblUM

The best finish

"But Esau ran to meet Jacob and embraced him; he threw his arms around his neck and kissed him. And they wept." Genesis 33:4

On Sunday, September 25, 2016, twin brothers Shawn and Shane Green crossed the finish line of the Chicago Half Marathon different than they ever had before. You see, even though these twins share a close bond, this is the first time they have ever crossed side-by-side as they both admit to being a little competitive-in their many races they have done together, Shawn, being the faster runner, would always finish first and then wait at the finish line for Shane. All that changed, though, when Shawn was diagnosed with an inoperable and terminal brain tumor that left him with limited mobility. Motivated by love, Shane joyfully pushed his brother in a racing wheelchair until the finish line was in sight where the two locked arms and crossed together. That's quite a story isn't it? 

Genesis 33:4 also tells us a story of two brothers running when it says, "Easu ran out to meet Jacob and embraced him: he threw his arms around his neck and kissed him. And they wept." Why the tears? Because after many years of allowing greed, hostility and jealousy to come between them, these twins were reunited. They finally realized that their relationship was more important than what they owned or who came in first. What a reason to rejoice!

And while competition can be good, spurring us to do our best, it is never good if it's at the expense of a personal relationship. May we never be so focused on being first or having more that we forget what's truly important, the family and friends around us and the bonds we have with them... those are the things worth competing for. Shane knew it when, speaking of finishing alongside his brother this time, he said, "It was the best finish. It was good." 

Heavenly Father, thank you for those people in our lives that we can call brother or sister. And while we may not be related by blood, may we realize that those relationships are just as special and worthy of being maintained and grown at any expense. May we always view people as more important than possessions or PRs. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Live it well - Switchfoot

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RW2cayoYGdk

http://www.runnersworld.com/general-interest/with-one-twin-facing-terminal-cancer-brothers-cross-finish-line-together

Pay your debt

"Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.” Romans 13:8

David Forster was set to run the Chicago Marathon on October 9th. And while bib number 651, the bib assigned to David, did cross the finish line, Forster was not the one wearing it. Sadly, the 27-year-old, who was said to have helped many people cross marathon finish lines during his life, died during a training run in June. So between three of his former cross-country teammates and with the blessing of race officials, Forster's bib was carried a portion of the 26.2 mile race by each friend until crossing the finish line in 3:55:24. It seems David had helped so many people achieve their marathon dream that his friends agreed, "We kind of owe it to him, for someone to help him cross this time."

You know the Bible tells us of a debt that you and I owe because of the selfless actions of one man too-but not just any man. Because of Jesus' great love for us, a love so great that it would compel him to die on a cross for you and me, we now owe a debt to love others in the same way. And not just once my friend, this is a continuing debt... just as Christ loved us once and then for all time, we are to do the very same, we are to love like Jesus.

And just how do we do that? Billy Graham sums it up this way, "We are to love our neighbors even though they may have a different color skin, ethnic background, or language; even though they look different, walk differently, or act differently. We are also to help our neighbors who are poor. The gospel of Christ has no meaning unless it is applied to those who are in need.The Greek word for love that Jesus used implies action. It is not a passive word; it is an action word. We are to love by our actions. What will you do today to show God’s love by your actions?"

Heavenly Father, thank you for being the greatest example of love. Help us to love others as Jesus did, putting their needs before our own and loving them unconditionally knowing that you died for each one of us. Help us to fulfill the law of love that we might lead others to you by doing so. It's' in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Love like Jesus - Rhett Walker Band

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

Don't hide them

"We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation." Romans 5:3,4

While standing in flip-flops at the accountants' office counter to pick up some forms for work, I heard a voice behind me ask, "Did you get sunburned this weekend?" Turning around, I noticed the clerk sitting behind me looking downwards. "No, I don't think so, why?" I said to which she replied, "The backs of your ankles are red." Laughing, I explained to her that they weren't sunburned but scarred from many years and many miles of running where each pair of shoes worn had left their mark. I then gladly showed her the scars on the insides of my ankles as well and shared how running hadn't always been easy or painless but, because it allowed me to share Christ with others, was worth every footstep. So was I proud of these scars? You bet. 

You know physical scars are simply the outward evidence of healed wounds-signs that what once was hurt has now been restored. And, as is the same with emotional scars, the problems and trials that created them all serve a purpose (whether we realize it at the time or not). In fact the purpose of problems and trials is so great that the Bible tells us that we should rejoice over them knowing, "that they help us develop endurance." And that endurance strengthens our character which in turn strengthens our faith. How is that for a purpose worthy of receiving a battle wound?

So as Louis Giglio writes, "Don't try to hide your scars. They're stories for a hurting world of wounds only Jesus can heal." Indeed. May we proudly reveal our scars and, more importantly, how each one served the purpose of making us stronger. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would have a purpose for our trials, sorrows and hardships. Help us to remember that each time we encounter these things, we are made stronger and our faith even stronger still. May we boldly show our scars to the world as proof that You Lord can heal any wound. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Johnny Diaz - Scars

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fld_Si7apI8 

Just admit it

"Admit your faults to one another and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous man has great power and wonderful results." James 5:16 (TLB)

On October 9th, after completing the Portland Marathon, Michelle Arnold and dozens of other runners reported running a half mile longer than the 26.2 mile distance after missing a turn. The event's director, Les Smith, said he believes that either a volunteer was not posted at the intersection or that a sign blew away during the race's downpour. What bothered the runners more than the mistake though was that the race was slow to acknowledge the error-not issuing a public statement until October 12th. And while the race was adjusting the times for those affected, thus righting their wrong, it would certainly have served them well to have admitted their fault earlier. 

When it comes to taking responsibility for our actions, the Bible explicitly tells us that we are to admit our faults to one another and then pray for each other so that we may be healed. You see, not only does saying, "I'm sorry" to the person or persons we have wronged help us to be forgiven and move forward, doing it quickly can also prevent any animosity or hurt feelings from forming. 

So may we learn from this story that it is always wise to promptly acknowledge when we are wrong and then work to make that wrong right because as Robert Half writes, "Not admitting a mistake is a bigger mistake." 

Heavenly Father, we thank you for always forgiving us when we have made mistakes. Help us to be people that take responsibilty for our actions and our words. When we have erred, help us to take steps to keep the situation from escalating by saying I'm sorry and meaning it. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Apologize - 33 Miles

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

http://www.runnersworld.com/general-interest/portland-marathoners-upset-by-races-response-to-course-error

Patience is the key

"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience." Colossians 3:12

"She was dumped here about a year ago. She was afraid and scared of us at first and it took us several days of coaxing before she would even come close enough to allow us to pet her. But she finally realized that we wouldn't hurt her and has never left." Spoken many months ago, these were the words of the owner of this little dog I'd grown to love and the words I replayed in my head as I stopped on my morning run to once again administer a belly rub. It hadn't always been this way though. This precious pup that now runs to me at the sound of my voice once cowered down at my very presence. After a few weeks of gentle words and patient waiting though, she finally came to me and now we enjoy this time several days a week. 

You know, this little dog is like many lost people in this world... hurt, beat-down, scared and looking for someone to love them. And many times these same hurt people cannot fathom that, in spite of all they've done, that anyone could love them much less the Creator of the universe. But that's where you and I come in. By being patient, kind and compassionate towards them, we can humbly and gently tell them that they too are loved by the Father, are worthy of forgiveness and have a home within a body of believers that is waiting to welcome them in.

So let us be ever mindful of the need to share the love of Christ with others but just as mindful to the way we do it because as Arnold H. Glasow once wrote, "The key to everything is patience. You get the chicken by hatching the egg, not by smashing it.” 

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us as you do and for allowing us the privilege of sharing that same love to others. Help us to be patient, kind and loving with the lost as we do that we might not push or scare them away. We ask that you give us the words, actions and timing we need to lead others to the Cross. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Crowder - Come as you are

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uvjvSDk8T5M

United as one

"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

As a member of TEAM 413, the world's largest ministry of endurance athletes, I had the blessing of not only running the St. Louis Rock and Roll Half Marathon this weekend but working the ministry booth alongside other members as well-where, at the two-day expo, we were blessed to share our faith, hear the stories of others and pray together. It reminded me how special divulging our testimonies can be and how our declared love for Jesus can serve to draw us closer and strengthen our bonds. And isn't that the purpose of the ministry and the church? To be united as one as an example of God's love to the world? 

When it comes to unity, the Bible tells us that before Jesus went to the Garden of Gethsemane where he was to be betrayed and arrested, he prayed for himself, then for his disciples and also for future believers. Among those prayers, he prayed that all believers, that means you and me,  would "be one" just as He and the Father were one that they might be unified and thus serve as a powerful witness to the reality of God's love-that he loved us so much that he sent his only Son to die on a cross. 

So, as Corrie Ten Boom once wrote, "Be united with other Christians. A wall with loose bricks is not good. The bricks must be cemented together." And the cement that holds us together and unites us is our love for Jesus and for one another. And doesn't the world need to see that type of witness? I certainly think so. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the many blessings you give us each and every day. May each one of us work to unify the body of Christ by praying for one another and working together to fulfill the Great Commission of sharing Christ with the world. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

We believe - Newsboys

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E00j5xGeDm8

The pre-race devotional and prayer. Worship and prayer serve to bring us closer and strengthen us. 

TEAM 413 is a body of believers with the same purpose... to share the love of Christ on the missions field. That just so happened to be St. Louis, MO this weekend. 

Each shirt sold has the ability to share the Gospel with thousands of people. Exciting huh?

Just love my TEAM 413 family!

I'll be back

"Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead. But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city. The next day he and Barnabas left for Derbe." Acts 14:19, 20

"I'll be back." These were the words spoken by 72-year-old Wally Hesseltine upon collapsing onto a gurney in the med tent after completing the Western States 100 mile endurance run in 30:01:56. This iconic and grueling race which starts at the base of Squaw Valley requires runners to climb more than 18,000 feet before ending in Auburn, California. With a time limit of thirty hours though, Wally's finish wasn't actually counted as a finish. He was issued a DNF (did not finish) after falling 200 meters from the finish line leaving no chance to cross within the allotted time. But I have no doubt, as Wally said, that he will be back-and this time, achieve his goal of being the oldest runner to ever complete this race. 

When it comes to completing a goal, Paul had that same tenacity, that same spirit of not letting anything stop him. You see, on Paul's first missionary journey, the Bible tells us that he and Barnabas were preaching to the crowd at Lystra when some Jews from Antioch and Iconium (the city they had just fled after hearing of the plot of the people to stone them) tracked them down and incited a riot that resulted in Paul being stoned, thrown out of the city and left for dead. But I love what happened next..."he got up and went back into the city." Wow! Talk about being determined to finish what you started. There would be no DNF for Paul that day. 

And while most of us will never attempt to run 100 miles, we all have battles equally as hard. And what we do in the face of them is what determines our success. Do we give up when it gets hard or we don't succeed the first time? May we remember that a winner is not just someone who crosses a finish line, a winner is that person who never quits trying. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the examples you have given us of what it means to never give up. Lord, what you have called us to may not always be easy but you have promised to equip us for the job giving us the strength to persevere. May we continue to rise each time we get knocked down knowing you will provide the power to do so. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Third Day - Victory

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32MRZvC_eqY

 This 12 minute video titled "Thirty Hours" is the just released documentary of Wally's quest for the finish line and is absolutely inspirational.  * https://vimeo.com/181118448

Today!

"Remember what it says: “Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts as Israel did when they rebelled.” Hebrews 3:15

Just as expected, my friend was sitting on the bench outside the service station where he worked as I rounded the corner on my morning run yesterday-where we had the same conversation we have been having for years each time I passed by, "Where were you this morning? You missed your morning training run," I jokingly told him. "I know," he said. "I woke up late again and I'm sorry I missed it but I'll definitely be ready for it tomorrow." We both laughed as I once again replied, "Okay, tomorrow it is then!"

Like my friend, I wonder how many of us are waiting for tomorrow to do those things we know we should do today? And while putting off exercise will only affect your well-being in this lifetime, putting off your decision to follow Christ will have enormous eternal consequences. The Bible tells us so when it says, "Today when you hear his voice, don't harden your hearts as Israel did when they rebelled." Paul was reminding the people that if they continued to resist God, day by day choosing to turn away, that their hearts would become hard and, like hardened bread, God would toss them aside, useless and worthless with no chance of redemption. That's not a very pleasant thought is it?

So I urge you to not put off until tomorrow the most important decision that could ever be made! Today when you hear God's voice calling you to join him, lace up your shoes and get moving because today can be the beginning of a lifetime of wonderful tomorrows. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of today. If there's anyone reading this that has not made a decision to follow you, I pray that they would do so at this very moment by praying this prayer: Jesus, I accept you into my heart and I am tired of running away. I believe that you are God's son and my only hope for eternal Salvation. I confess my need for you and you alone and I declare you as Lord and Savior over my life. It's in your most precious name I pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Give me faith - Elevation Worship

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NyYj9HCDixc

Pass the tradition

You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men.”And he said to them, “You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to establish your tradition!" Mark 7:8,9

The Kona IRONMAN World Championship took place last Saturday. Described as "triathlon's most iconic event", it is surely something to see. But did you know that there is a wacky tradition that precedes it? In its 19th running, the Kona Underpants Run took place on Thursday, Oct. 6. The 1.5 mile jaunt features the triathletes racing in nothing but their colorful and cleverly themed skivvies (women wear tops) and has been used as a way to blow off pre-race jitters as well as give back to local organizations in the community by giving them the proceeds from the race.

When it comes to following tradition, the Bible tells us that it is not always a good thing. You see, the Pharisees and the teachers of the law observed many traditions that were handed down by men above the commands handed down by God.  And when they questioned Jesus as to why his disciples did not adhere to the same rituals they did and were eating food with unwashed hands, Jesus called them hypocrites and rebuked them by saying "You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to establish your tradition!" Notice the exclamation point? Jesus was pretty serious that God's commands come before any person's or church's customs.

So, while not all traditions are bad, any that claim to be as relevant or more important than God's law are. Good traditions should always lead us to and exalt Christ above all.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the blessing of your Word that we might follow it's teachings above any that man has ever taught us or history has ever passed down to us. Help us to follow you first just as Jesus did, laying aside the traditions made by men and the church to follow the Truth. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Above all - Michael W. Smith

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AjYiEyu8Si8

http://running.competitor.com/2016/10/news/triathletes-strip-annual-kona-underpants-run_156848#YrwQG83eMBdYuj6F.99

Smart advice?

"Now Amnon had an adviser named Jonadab son of Shimeah, David's brother. Jonadab was a very shrewd man." 2 Samuel 13:3

Prior to Sunday's Chicago Marathon, comedian and runner Rob Riggle, who was set to run the 26.2 mile race himself, offered some tips to new runners looking for advice. Having completed one marathon back in 2002, he now claimed to have "expert advice" which included these tips: A marathon is most definitely a race to be sprinted. Hydration is totally over-rated. Any shoe in any size is fine to run in, even cowboy boots. Wear the right clothing, namely wool or anything scratchy and absolutely try new gear on race day. Wow! It doesn't take a genius to figure out that this is bad advice does it?

And while taking Riggle's race advice would probably result in not finishing the race, the Bible tells us in 2 Samuel 13 about even more disastrous effects that taking the advice of a so called "smart" individual can have. You see David's son Amnon was madly in love with his half-sister Tamar-but he knew that acting on his feelings by pursuing a relationship with her was absolutely forbidden. When he asked his friend Jonadab what he should do about it, this so-called "smart" man gave him advice so contrary to God's will that it ended with Tamar being raped and Amnon being murdered for the crime. Not a very happy ending was it? 

As both stories illustrate, observing the advice of any person, no matter how knowledgeable or wise they may appear, should always be done with caution remembering this... the words of a truly "smart" person will never contradict with the words of God. Simply said about advice, if it isn't biblical, it isn't acceptable... period.

Heavenly Father, thank you for those friends and mentors that you have placed in our lives to help us walk the Christian walk. Help us to remember that we are all human though and capable of giving bad advice as well as receiving it and that we should always check what we say and what we consider against your Word. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Follow me there - Third Day

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDJJRKkWqRA&index=33&list=PLhnsUaEIzXLUMZkbQ8NdSHB15HEP3y83S

http://www.runnersworld.com/chicago-marathon/watch-comedian-rob-riggle-offers-expert-marathon-advice

Be the example

"Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity." 1 Timothy 4:12

On October 4, Fox News reported that the Henry County School District issued a directive to school administrators ordering them to remove any religious items from their classrooms-namely bibles, angels, scripture verses and printed prayers. You could say that this was the day Jesus was kicked out of East Lake Elementary School in Georgia. Sadly enough, the trend shows no signs of slowing as more pressure is being placed on other schools to follow. 

And as the push comes to silence the name of Jesus forever, I found it utterly disheartening to think that others schools might soon be following this example. Which is why I was so happy to see a picture of the prayer circle that was formed at a local Cross-Country meet later that night-the image bringing to mind the words of Paul when he instructed young Timothy to "set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity." And this group of young people did just that! Their example of public devotion served as a reminder to those around them that Jesus is still welcome!!

So may each one of us, no matter how old or how young, "set the example" in showing the world that we, as Christians, will never abstain from praising the name of Jesus or ever refrain from publicly declaring our faith. And by doing so influence those around us to also stand firm because, as Albert Schweitzer once wrote, "Example is not the main thing in influencing others. It is the only thing." 

Heavenly Father, thank you for people that will lead by example showing the world that You are still Lord and welcome in our schools, our homes and our business. Even if we stand alone, let each one of us be an example of what it means to stand firm in the faith and hold on to what we know is true. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Holy Spirit - Francesca Battistelli

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvBBC7-PSHo

The chase

"You will pursue your enemies, and they will fall by the sword before you. Five of you will chase a hundred, and a hundred of you will chase ten thousand, and your enemies will fall by the sword before you." Leviticus 26:7,8

"Never steal from a long distance track runner… You will be caught”, said a spokesperson for the Minneapolis Police Department after the September 24 arrest of 48-year-old Darren Clinton. It all started when Clinton was spotted by Collins Kibet, a member of the University of Arizona's Cross-Country team, darting out of the team's hotel room carrying one of the runners' backpacks. Upon seeing a burglary in progress, Kibet reacted by doing what he does best, he ran. And as the rest of the team, having breakfast across the street (with a view of the hotel) saw the commotion, they too joined in the chase not stopping until they had the robber cornered and the police arrived where Darren was quickly arrested and the team recovered all of their belongings. 

Quite a story isn't it? Leviticus 26:7,8 also talks about an exciting chase when it says, "Five of you will chase a hundred, and a hundred of you will chase ten thousand, and your enemies will fall by the sword before you." You see, after God commanded the Israelites to obey his commands and to follow his decrees, he told them that there would be rewards for their obedience... one of which was deliverance from their enemies.

Do you realize that God is still calling us to heed his commands today with the promise of a recompense? And while we might not need to be delivered from sword-wielding enemies anymore, the prize for obedience is just as amazing.  It is being set free from the sin that kills us, released from the bondage that holds us and freed from the consequences it leaves us. Oh yes, obedience certainly has its rewards. And isn't that worth chasing?

Heavenly Father, thank you for the promise that chasing after you will be the best pursuit that we ever enter into. May we view a relationship with you as the greatest thing we can ever possess and allow no person or thing to ever steal it from us. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Chasing after you - Vashawn Mitchell

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8_hcGqWOo-I

In all seasons

"He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning." Daniel 2:21

Jeff Dougherty of Bozeman, Montana, never dreamed that combining his two passions-running and cinematography-would ever create anything special much less the captivating video aptly titled, "running the Seasons" which has now been viewed over 300,000 times. The recording is a compilation of 98,366 photos taken with a GoPro over the course of about 15 one-hour runs along Jeff's favorite five mile running route at different times and seasons. Of the experience Dougherty said, "Running is just a way to get outside and see the world. It allows me to just check out of the world and the day-to-day stress melts away."

When it comes to the changing seasons, Daniel the prophet wrote, "He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others." He was reminding the people, and us, that God directs everything that happens. He gives kings and leaders positions by his authority and takes it away by that same authority and according to his purposes. And while you might feel dismayed or upset when evil rulers and people prosper, it helps to remember that God was, is and always will be in control. 

So the next time you're feeling anxious about the state of the world, why not go for a run? No matter the time or the season, spending time with the Father will melt away that stress. And remember, as Pastor John Hagee writes, "When something is 'out of control' it is merely out of your control, not God's." 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the reminder that, in this crazy world we live in,  you are still in control. You always have been, are now and always will be the Master of the universe. Help us to remember that when our hearts feel anxious Lord. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

God is in control - Avalon

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

http://www.runnersworld.com/general-interest/watch-runner-captures-every-season-on-his-one-route

Stand upright

"The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them." Proverbs 11:3

Last May, Robert Young began his attempt to break the Trans America Record-in which to succeed he had to run an of average 60 miles a day for 46 days. Just weeks into his adventure though, suspicions about Young's cheating began to arise. While Young denied the allegations and continued on his journey, the adventure eventually ended after 34 days and 2,000 miles when Robert was taken to the emergency room suffering from exhaustion, a fractured toe and cellulitis. Meanwhile his remaining sponsor, Skins, had turned to two independent experts to get to the truth. And the truth was that he lied. The 101-page report based on interviews and detailed inspection of the data left little doubt that Young had received, in their words, “unauthorised assistance – most likely in the form of riding in or on a vehicle for large parts of the attempt”.

So, just like that, his dishonesty was exposed and his reputation destroyed. You know, when it comes to honesty, the Bible tells us that "The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them." You see an honest person will avoid the temptation of lying or cheating knowing that, even if their actions are never uncovered here, they are always held accountable to God.

Sadly the writer of the news story reported, "While cheating is cheating, the only person Young has destroyed is himself. There were no rivals on the road to cheat out of medals." So you see, "crookedness", whether discovered or hidden, indeed has the power to destroy a person. But the story doesn't have to end like that for him or for anyone... God can restore even that which was destroyed. Just ask Him.

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that clearly warns us of those things that will drive a wedge between us and ruin our witness to the world. Help us to be people of integrity who do the right thing even when no one is looking. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Bradley Bridges - Set me free

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XFcL0VdftME&list=PLWvahZRxLnLMSWeULnub0CCeQzvxGM8hB&index=13

https://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2016/oct/02/robert-young-marathon-sponsor-stands-tall

It starts with me

"But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them?" Romans 10:14

For the last two years, the first Saturday of October has been the date of the Froghill Half Marathon and 10k held in Waynesville, MO. This year was no different except for the addition of a 3.1 mile race, appropriately named the Leapfrog 5k, on the Friday night before. Designed to get people up and moving, this weekend filled with fun, food, awards and yes, running is about so much more than racing. You see, for TEAM 413 (the world's largest ministry of endurance athletes), this is an opportunity to share Christ with others.

When it comes to telling others about Jesus, Paul begs the question, "And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them?" Believe it or not, many people in the United States do not know about Jesus-and many of those that do don't know the whole truth... that there is no other way to Salvation, that God loves them no matter what they have done or how unworthy they may feel and that they can change their lives in an instant by accepting him into their hearts. But just who is that "someone" that Paul is referring to though? That "someone" called to tell them? That's you and me and every other believer my friend.

Dr. Seuss once wrote, "Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It's not." I truly believe that. Do you? And, if you do, are you willing to be that "someone"?

Heavenly Father, thank you for the opportunity to serve you and to tell others of the great things you have done and how You alone can be the change that this world needs. May we be bold "someones" Lord that care a whole awful lot about others and our world that we might work to make things better. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Let it start with me - No other name

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9H_hmNqls7A

In the middle of "Frog Hill" in Waynesville, Mo, as they run the first mile, the runners catch a glimpse where the descent got its name. The race ends in the middle of Frogtober Fest in the community park downtown where frogs are celebrated all day and the festivities last well into the night. 

As the runners pause for The National Anthem, the TEAM 413 shirts reveal our purpose without saying a word. Our mission is to share Christ with the world wherever we might be including the race course. 

Froghill Phil welcomed a runner across the finish line who stopped for a cartwheel!

The weekend began with the Leapfrog 5k Friday night, September 30 at 6 p.m.

Coming down the famous Froghill at the beginning of Saturday's Half Marathon and 10k

A dear friend ran the virtual in Korea at the same time we ran ours here in the US. How cool is that??? Planting seeds oceans away. He is worthy to be praise anywhere and everywhere!

With our virtual option, runners from around the country joined us to support this amazing ministry.

It was a great turnout for the very first 3.1 mile race added to the Froghill events

* Every finisher receives a shirt that serves to "plant seeds" with others. To learn more about TEAM 413 and being a part of the family, log onto team413.org or check us out on Facebook or Twitter. This is an amazing ministry full of "someones" who really do care an awful lot.