Everything is possible

"I will stand there before you by the rock at Horeb. Strike the rock, and water will come out of it for the people to drink." So Moses did this in the sight of the elders of Israel." Exodus 17:6

With temperatures approaching the sixties, the unseasonable winter weather made for a very warm run yesterday and I found myself unusually thirsty several miles from where I had left my water. Longing for refreshment, I prayed that God would somehow give me what I needed. So as I approached the top of the hill, I wasn't surprised to see a friend headed into his office (good timing right?). Seeing me, he smiled, said Hi and asked how I was. "Thirsty" I replied. "Do you happen to have any water you could spare?" To my delight, I was immediately ushered in, given a cold bottle of water and sent on my way.

You know, when I prayed for water, I wasn't worried about how God was going to provide it. I simply knew that He would. The "how" didn't concern me as it didn't concern Moses when, while in the desert camped with the Israelites, the people demanded water but there was none to be found. After all, they were in the midst of bone-dry land. But Moses, knowing that God was all-powerful, cried out and was told to take his staff and go to the rock of Horeb where God then commanded, "Strike the rock, and water will come out of it for the people to drink."

Can you imagine getting water from a rock? Probably not but that's exactly what happened. What if Moses, though, had simply stared at the rock wondering exactly "how" God was going to make it happen? Water doesn't flow from rocks, right? It does when God commands it my friend. So, no matter what you're praying for today, don't worry about "how" God will accomplish it but pray in faith that He will.... because He can. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the reminder that nothing is impossible with you. Help us to concern ourselves with believing that you can make impossible situations possible and forget worrying about "how" it could possibly happen, Help us to simply have faith that you will provide. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Impossible - Sidewalk Prophets

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

Accept the blame

"David was conscience-stricken after he had counted the fighting men, and he said to the LORD, "I have sinned greatly in what I have done. Now, LORD, I beg you, take away the guilt of your servant. I have done a very foolish thing." 2 Samuel 24:10

After concerns were raised that the 13.1 mile course for the October, 2016 Great Scottish Run half marathon might be short, organizers measured it again and reported their findings yesterday. To the dismay of many runners who reported personal best times, the course was 149.7 meters short invalidating the recorded times. Rather than place the blame elsewhere though, race director Andy Mitchlemore apologized for the error and said, "Great Run takes responsibility for the miscalculation and we apologize unreservedly to the runners and the City of Glasgow." In a world where taking responsibility for one's actions seems rare, it was refreshing to see this don't you think?

Since the beginning of time when Adam blamed Eve for eating the apple and Eve blamed the serpent, people have been shifting the blame to someone or something else for their actions. But David gives us a biblical example of how to handle our mistakes. When he disobeyed God by performing a forbidden census, he didn't blame his circumstances, his parents or anyone else but said, "I have sinned greatly in what I have done." He took full responsibility, asked for forgiveness and then accepted the consequences of his actions without complaining. 

You know, when it comes to taking responsibility for our actions, you and I would do well to follow the example of David. Whether it be against an individual or God, may we admit our wrongdoing, ask for forgiveness and accept the ramifications of our actions. After all, no matter what our upbringing has been or our circumstances are now, one thing is certain... we, alone, are responsible for the decisions we make. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the example of David who shows us the correct way to act when we have wronged You or someone else. Help us to be people who take personal responsibility for our actions that we might learn from our mistakes, heal any relationships we may have hurt and receive forgiveness. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

If we're honest - Francesca Battistelli

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDcTvtuuVU8

http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-38798775

.

Inaccurate measurements

"You must have accurate and honest weights and measures, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you." Deuteronomy 25:15

Due to the controversy at last year's Great Scottish Run half-marathon in which some competitors claimed the course was shorter than the stipulated 13.1 miles, race organizers set out to once again measure the route this past weekend. And while for the average runner the alleged 200 meter shortage might not matter, for professional runners like last year's winner, Callum Hawkins, who set a new course record, the difference could be crucial. If the course, or its measure, is found to be inaccurate, the winner's record and the times and titles of many others could be in jeopardy. 

Did you know that the Bible also warns us of the dangers of inaccurate measurements when it commands us to, "have accurate and honest weights and measures"? This order issued to the Israelites was a call to honesty for all God's people-especially in the workplace and when selling goods. You see, to use different weights and measurements, or deceptive practices, to cheat someone was inexcusable and left them, as it could us, in danger of being labeled hypocrites.

And while an inaccurate measurement of a race distance might cost someone an official time or title, dishonesty at home or in the workplace could cost much more. Why? Because as Christians we are called to deal fairly with others that we might be set apart. To do anything less might not only cost us our reputation but cause us to be labeled as hypocrites as well, damaging our credibility to share the Gospel.

Heavenly Father, thank you for being the example of fairness and honesty. Help us to treat others in the same way that we might be an example of faithfulness to your commands and honesty in the workplace. Help us to be set apart and to lead others to you through our actions. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Alive and running - Kristian Standfill

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awXfpdos0a4

http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-38787802

Do it today

"As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work." John 9:4

"Do what you can while you can." That's the motto Connie Daws adopted after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis after the birth of her daughter Amelia, now 14 months old. This wife and mother of two is not letting the diagnosis stop her though as she continues to train for her first ultra marathon, the Tarawera Ultramarathon on February 11, where her goal is to complete the 62 km run in nine hours. Of her disease, Connie says, "The MS does worry me, because it's the unknown. It does make me want to do things now, because you just don't know how it is going to affect you in the future."

You know, "doing things now" is exactly the attitude that you and I should have. Jesus certainly did. He knew all too well that there would be a day that he, just like us, would face death and no longer be able to do the will of his Father.  And so, when speaking to his disciples, he conveyed that sense of urgency that they might fully realize how fleeting the time and important their work was saying, "As long as it day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work."

Jesus' words to his disciples then are the same words he is speaking to us now....and the we he was referring to is you and me! There is no more time in the day than they had and no fewer people to reach so the time is now. Night is indeed coming my friend so what will you do "as long as it is day"?

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of today. Help us to realize how valuable it is that we might use it giving back to others. Give us a sense of urgency of how important it is be doing your work before the night comes and we can't. Help us to be people that do all we can while we can. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Natalie Grant - Be one

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

http://www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/88767209/Hamilton-woman-with-multiple-sclerosis-preparing-for-first-ultramarathon

Too sensitive

"Also, do not take seriously all words which are spoken, so that you will not hear your servant cursing you. For you also have realized that you likewise have many times cursed others." Ecclesiastes 7:21,22

It seems the older I get and the more I put my body through (like training for ultra marathons), the more sensitive my body is to the food I use to fuel it. I guess it goes back to that old adage, "junk in, junk out", meaning what we put into our bodies is the very thing that we can expect out of them. So eating healthy just makes sense right? Well, not for everybody. Most of my friends balk at the idea, calling me crazy, of giving up bread and processed foods and my family says I eat things even our dog won't eat . Does that kind of talk bother me? Of course not. After all, they're just words right? 

And when it comes to being sensitive about things that people do, or especially say, the Bible warns us to "not take seriously all words which are spoken". In other words, you and I need to be careful that we aren't overly sensitive to what others might say or think about us at any given time. After all, you and I have more than likely said things we don't mean or shouldn't have said about others too right?  And a careless word or action taken personally can easily strain or even tear apart relationships, friendships, churches and marriages. 

So when it comes to being overly sensitive, may we resist the urge to take offence at things that really don't matter or are said in haste and without thought. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, a German poet and writer, said it best this way,  "Do not give in too much to feelings. An overly sensitive heart is an unhappy possession on this shaky earth." 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the blessing of forgiveness. Help us to extend that same blessing to others when we feel we have been slighted or offended. Give us discernment to let the things go that aren't important and to avoid harboring resentment when people say or do things that might serve to upset us. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Between you and me - DC Talk 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6kXJdshVNq0

Off track?

"Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test!" 2 Corinthians 3:5 

Run enough races and you will soon discover one of the main reasons people don't finish well or even at all... they haven't perfected their pace-or, as Merriam Webster defines it, the speed at which someone moves a single step. So it makes sense then that each individual stride you and I take will ultimately determine our race pace then right? And why is that so important? Because if we start off too slow, we won't finish as well as we could have because we held back and if we go out too fast, we won't have enough energy to finish because we will have worn ourselves out.

But thankfully with all the new technology, determining and tracking our pace is as easy as using a GPS (Global Positioning System) enabled watch. It has the capability of showing our exact time, distance and speed allowing us to track our progress and immediately know when when we are "off track". Did you know that the Bible can do the exact same thing but even better? In fact, it is the original and still the best GPS (God's Perfect Standard) device we can use to track and test ourselves. By using and studying it daily, you and I can utilize it to immediately recognize when we are "off track".

So examine and test yourself often. If you find yourself off pace,  let the Bible guide you back. Because it's only by staying consistent and focused that you and I will be able to run the race the way God intended-not too slow, not too fast... but just right and at the perfect speed.

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us everything we need to run the good race. As athletes in training, may we focus on your Word to get us to the finish line. And may we consistently test and examine ourselves along the way that we might not get off pace. Mostly, when our race is done, may it be You who is glorified. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Third Day - Spirit

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NyS8x4kRrUc&list=RDNyS8x4kRrUc#t=29

Watch your words

"There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." Proverbs 12:18

In 2014, SELF Magazine published a photo of Monika Allen dressed as Wonder Woman and wearing a tutu while running the LA Marathon. The photo was featured in their section called "The BS Meter" which meanly snubbed the outfit choices of women, including Monika and her friend, in races. Their "rash" words, or words proceeding from a lack of careful consideration of the possible consequences of an action, were printed before knowing that Allen was running her first marathon after chemotherapy and had made the tutu herself to give her motivation. She had also started a company called Glam Runners where she sold similar tutus to motivate others battling cancer.

Monika, 38, sadly lost her battle with brain cancer Friday leaving behind a baby girl and a husband-but her story should forever remind us to be careful of the words we speak. Although the magazine apologized for their comments, words can never be taken back. Proverbs 12:18 gives us a vivid description of what words can do…particularly impulsive, reckless words or words spoken in anger when it says, "There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing."

So let us today and every day be ever so cautious to use our words carefully and to think before we speak. Words have meaning my friends and, when spoken too quickly, can be like a blade thrust into the heart of it's listeners. Let us rather pursue "the tongue of the wise", that our words might build up rather than tear down. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for people like Monika who show us that it is possible to persevere with a smile and a great attitude in the midst of sickness and tragedy. Help us to remember her story when we are tempted to say a rash word or to speak ill of someone else. Most of Lord help us to practice kindness, in word and speech, each and every day. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org 

Words - Hawk Nelson

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r8aPFiYNIN4

one little act

"Pardon me, my lord," Gideon replied, "but how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family." Judges 6:15

The inspiring image of Dawn Nisbet finishing a local 5k in her Greater Manchester town went viral Saturday-not because of her miraculous time or enviable running form though. It was because she was last, and not the picture one might envision when you think of a runner, and yet embraced the run with joy! This mother of two said, "I'm 41, overweight and quite shy too, to feel that I have inspired one person is just amazing. The messages I have received are wonderful and bring me to tears some of them. In my own little way I have helped other people." 

You know God has been using ordinary people, people who thought they had no special gifts or talents, since the beginning of time. In fact, Gideon, who with an army of 300 men composed of only farmers and shepherds, wiped out 135,000 experienced and battle-tested Midianite soldiers. Could there have been anyone more ordinary than Gideon who described himself by saying, "My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family."? And yet he was used to do great things!

Each and every day God uses ordinary people-some in "little ways" as Dawn described her efforts and some in bigger ways as he did Gideon. But I imagine if you were to ask even one of those people who were motivated to make a life change because of Dawn, they would say her actions were anything but small.  So whatever your purpose is today and how unqualified you might feel, know that God can and will use you in your 'own little way' too if you let him. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for those people who are willing to be used by you to help and inspire others that they are worthy and have purpose. Help us to remember that there are so many lost and lonely people out there whose lives could be changed by one "little" act by us. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Use me too - Johnny Diaz

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKa5iM5DTy8

http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/image-last-place-parkrun-finisher-12490437

Trust the promise

"No one will be able to stand against you as long as you live. For I will be with you as I was with Moses. I will not fail you or abandon you." Joshua 1:5

Between the ice storms, winter rains and unusual lingering cloud cover, we literally have not seen sunlight here in the Missouri Ozarks region for almost two weeks making for a somber mood for many. So as I was applying sunscreen (something I always do) before setting out on my morning run yesterday, I thought to myself, "Why bother? The sun isn't coming out today anyway." And then I smiled... I may not see the sun today but that's okay. Even on the darkest day, the Son is there. 

You know sometimes our spiritual lives can get kind of dark too, as we go through periods when the sun seems to have disappeared and life gets so hard we are tempted to just give up. These are the times we might even doubt if God is really there and if he even cares. Well I can assure you that, just like the sun, God is always here with us whether we can see him or not-because the promise that he gave to Joshua is the same one he gave to you and me, "I will be with you as I was with Moses. I will not fail you or abandon you." 

Oswald Chambers once wrote, "At times God puts us through the discipline of darkness to teach us to heed Him. Song birds are taught to sing in the dark, and we are put into the shadow of God's hand until we learn to hear Him." So today, trust not only in the promise that God will be with you in your darkest moments but that he has a purpose for them as well. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the promise to be with us in the good times, the bad times and every day in between. Help us to trust in that promise and to trust that you have a purpose for our pain. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Center of it - Chris August

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqoU6V86AkY

the cool-down

"Immediately Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray." Mark 6:45,46

Knowing I was limited on time yesterday morning, I was still tempted to run a couple miles more than I planned at the expense of skipping my cool-down or the much needed time of walking, stretching and breathing after a workout. This important period when exercise is slowed (but not halted) and the body is allowed to gradually come to back to a resting, balanced state (homeostatis) is more important than you and I might think. Apart from the physical benefits, it is also the period when, thanks to the euphoric state brought on by the release of dopamine and serotonin, we can reflect back on the run, more easily meditate on God's provision and get ready for the day ahead. 

And as much as we need these times of prayer and meditation each day, our busy lives and workloads can make it tempting to skip these cool-downs. In Mark 6:30-44, the story is told of the apostles and Jesus gathered together with a large crowd. After Jesus taught them many things, he fed this hungry crowd of 5,000 from five loaves and two fish. Talk about a huge workload! But immediately after completing his work or "workout", Jesus sent his disciples away, dismissed the crowd and went up to a mountainside to pray-to spend time with the Father, reflect on God's provisions and prepare for the tasks that lie ahead.

And following Jesus' example, in both our physical and spiritual lives, is the best way of keeping our lives balanced. We cannot sacrifice our time alone with the Lord to do the work he has called us to nor can we do what he has called us to if we have not discerned his will through prayer and meditation. So take the time each and every day for a cool-down to prepare for the tasks that lie ahead. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your example of how we are to approach our work and worship. Help us to serve you wholeheartedly by helping and serving others but to never neglect our alone and restorative time with you in the process. Help us to embrace the cool-down as we use it to meditate on what you have done and to prepare for what you would have us do next. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Hungry - Kathryn Scott

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TgfNIjzqnI0

We can all help

"Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong." Acts 3:6,7

Luanne Minette, a retired flight attendant from Oceanside California who at one point could barely walk, finished her first half marathon Sunday. After years of suffering from debilitating arthritis making it painful to even stand, she recently had surgery where they replaced the joints in both her feet. And thanks to Tri-City Medical Center, who sponsored 13 people with physical challenges including Minette, her dream of running became a reality. Through this experience, Luanne now plans to give back to others in her same situation saying, "I'll be able to carry this with me and help others who have arthritis."

You know the Bible also tells us a story of a person who was unable to walk but was later healed. This person was a man, lame from birth, who would lay by the temple gates each day begging for money. But when Peter and John came along, the man was given something far greater than the silver or gold he was seeking when Peter spoke these words, "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk." And not only did the man get up and walk but followed the disciples into the temple jumping and praising God!

Isn't it amazing the things that can happen when people care for and love one another? The people at the Medical Center cared enough to create a program to help people like Luanne and Peter loved others so much that he couldn't help but give the lame man what he had. And while you and I may not have the power to perform surgery on or heal a person, we can all do something to help someone else. Wouldn't you agree? 

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving each one of us unique gifts, talents and opportunities to help other people. Help us to love others as Jesus loves us that we would feel compelled to give back to those in need. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Follow you - Leeland/Brandon Heath

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cJeW3HlDqPA

http://www.10news.com/news/woman-who-could-barely-walk-finishes-half-marathon-01172017

A love hate relationship

"Let those who love the LORD hate evil, for he guards the lives of his faithful ones and delivers them from the hand of the wicked." Psalm 97:10

This weekend's storm that dumped ice across the Nation's Midwest not only made roads too hazardous and slippery to drive on but made yards and sidewalks too dangerous to even walk or run on. So as much as I hated being banished to the treadmill for three days, I loved, and was extremely grateful, that I had the option of uninterrupted training (while catching up on Netflix) and quickly surmised that treadmill running wasn't so bad after all. I mean it was definitely better than no running at all right? I guess you could say then that I, along with thousands of other runners, have a love/hate relationship with this stationary device.

And when it comes to relationships and feelings of both love and hate, the Bible tells us that if we truly love God and sincerely desire a close relationship with him, we will love what he loves and hate what he hates. In other words, you and I will hate evil in any form. We will despise the sins of the world, both the obvious ones and the ones that have become socially acceptable-both the big transgressions and the seemingly small ones.

And if we ever have to wonder why God hates sin so much, we need only read the words of C.H. Spurgeon to be reminded, "Look to the cross and hate your sin, for sin nailed your well beloved to that tree."

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would hate sin in every form because it not only separates us from you but brings us nothing but guilt, sorrow, shame and pain. Help us to always remember that it was our sin that nailed Jesus to the cross but it was his great love for us that allowed it. Oh Lord, help us to love those things you love and to hate the things you hate that we might have the closest and most intimate relationship with you possible. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Lacey Sturm - Mercy Tree

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hrgl9z3grKU

Be prepared

"But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect," 1 Peter 3:15

It was clear as I entered our local Wal-Mart yesterday afternoon that not everyone was preparing for the forecasted ice storm in the same way. While I got ready by getting in a long run before the anticipated weather made it impossible, many others were preparing by stocking up on essentials as the bare shelves that once held cases of water and loaves of bread clearly illustrated. It's certainly not that I was taking the weather threat lightly, it's just that my family and I stay prepared for situations like this. When you live in the country, it's just something you do.

And when it comes to being prepared, the Bible tells us that we should always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks us to give the reason for the hope that we have. Becoming ready to do this though must start well before the question is ever asked. It must start by knowing the Person we are talking about, having established a deep relationship with Him from studying the Word faithfully. You see, it's only by knowing God and about the hope that was given to us through Christ's sacrifice that we can share it with others- that blessed hope that lies in the knowledge of this... Jesus died to save us from our sins, rose from the dead to defeat death for all time and promised all believers eternal life with Him.

And remember, just like it is when encountering a storm, if you're not prepared beforehand you won't be ready. And, in this case, you might just miss the only chance you have at leading someone else to search out this same cause of hope for themselves. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that gives us the knowledge we need to be ready to defend and share our faith with others. Help us to get prepared and stay prepared at all times that we might be a beacon to others and lead them to you. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

My hope is in You - Aaron Schust

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kftUFUccg-A

No going back

"So Elisha left him and went back. He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the plowing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his servant." 1 Kings 19:21

After many months of prayer, I finally felt led to set a goal of completing a 100 mile race-a race, for one reason or another, I had put off registering for. And while training had gone well for the last six weeks, doubt and discouragement had recently crept in making the thought of giving up and "going back" to the way things were a bit too enticing. So knowing what I had to do, I "officially" signed up, told others about my decision and set out my new training plan. There! Now there was certainly no way of going back I thought. Sometimes in order to achieve a goal, we just need to remove those things that would lead us return to our old ways don't you think?

And when talking about permanently getting rid of things that could lure us into going back, Elisha, upon being called by God, committed the ultimate act to ensure that he would not return and go back to the way things were. While plowing his field, Elisha was approached and anointed by Elijah to take his place as Israel's next prophet. I love what Elisha did next! He kissed his mother and father goodbye, went back to the field where he slaughtered his oxen, burned the plowing equipment, cooked the meat and gave it to the people. Just like that, everything that could have tempted him to return was gone. He was now free to follow "Elijah and became his servant", wholeheartedly committed to the work God had called him to.

Perhaps you're struggling with making a commitment today? Maybe it's to lose weight, get a new job or give yourself fully to God? Whatever it is, the best way to ensure success is to permanently remove those things that would tempt you into "going back" to the way things were.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the many things you have blessed us with especially Salvation that is only found in you. Help us today to commit to fulfilling the purpose you have for our lives and to commit so fully that we would rid ourselves of the things that would cause us to "go back" to our old lives. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

No turning back - Brandon Heath

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_TGh9-iabM

True success

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7

With 30 mph winds and wind gusts well over 50 mph yesterday morning, my long run did not go as planned. It was nearly impossible to keep a decent pace as I battled this force of nature I felt was intent on blowing me away. Midway through my three-hour run and already feeling fatigued from the fight, I knew that completing my mileage goal was going to be impossible. But I persevered anyway remembering that a successful run isn't always measured in speed or miles completed.... sometimes success is measured in simply not giving up even if you have to crawl.

You know when it comes to success, the apostle Paul knew that it wasn't measured in conventional ways either. Nearing the end of his life and reflecting back on it, Paul wrote these words to Timothy,  "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." With those words Paul revealed that he didn't measure his life's success in having achieved notoriety, fame or riches but in finishing the race-fulfilling the calling God had given him despite the trials and troubles he endured along the way fighting tirelessly until the very end. He had achieved the ultimate success because he could boldly proclaim that he never gave up running until his race was done. 

So I wonder? How do you measure success? Is it by the amount of money you have in the bank, the car you drive or the house you own? That surely is not the way God measures it my friend. A successful life lived will allow us to, like Paul, boldly proclaim that we have fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the example of Paul and other followers of Christ that never gave up no matter how hard the race got. May we, like them, view success only as how we used our time and resources to fulfill the purpose you have given us. Help us Lord to fight the good fight and keep the faith that we might finish the race and meet you face to face. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

The good fight - Unspoken

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0M3X3_pFD4

The very thing

"So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me." 2 Corinthians 12:7,8

At last month's BMW Dallas Marathon, blind runner, Austin Greer, finished his 15th marathon with a PR by, in his words, "adjusting to the challenges." Greer, 47, was born with perfect vision but rendered blind after a bicycle accident in 1987. An activist for others with disabilities now, Austin has overcome many obstacles throughout his life and says, when it comes to running, "Every runner does things to adjust to running. I adjust to my visual impairment."

You know the Apostle Paul knew a lot about adjusting to physical limitations as well in order to run the race. The Bible tells us that he prayed three times for the Lord to remove the thing that was causing him trouble, the thorn in his flesh, and each time God refused. Paul's prayers went unanswered because the very thing he was asking God to take away was the very thing that kept him "from becoming conceited". In other words, Paul's impairment gave him the humility God knew he would need to do what God was calling him to-and so the very thing that made Paul weak was the very thing that made him strong. 

So you see, many of the things in life that we look at as disabilities, handicaps or afflictions could very well be those things God is using to make us more like Him to fulfill our purpose. And by adjusting to and overcoming these hurdles, you and I can show others the power of Christ in spite of them. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for a fresh perspective today and for allowing us to view our challenges as ways you help us grow and mature in the faith. Help us Lord to always trust that you will do what's best for us no matter how much we doubt as you make us into the persons we need to be. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Keep making me - Sidewalk Prophets

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UI1obeb3A9c

http://sportsday.dallasnews.com/other-sports/running/2017/01/09/legally-blind-runner-finishes-15th-marathon-pr-adjusting-challenges

Canceled

"Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel" Philippians 1:27

Due to weather conditions beyond anyone's control last weekend. both the Disney Half-Marathon and the Mississippi Blues Marathon were canceled leaving thousands of runners very disappointed. And while most of the athletes understood and took it all in stride, many openly expressed their anger and frustration at the turn of events.

You know it's very natural to be discouraged when things don't go the way we planned, but how you and I react to these situations is the very thing that, as Christians, should set us apart-the very thing that others will be watching. Paul, a man who knew firsthand what it was like to encounter disappointments and frustrating circumstances beyond his control, wrote, "Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ." He was telling us that no matter what unexpected disruptions, frustrations, or difficulties come our way, we are to respond with a Christ-like attitude.

So today and every day, "Whatever happens", may you and I strive to imitate that perfect attitude.... patient, understanding and hopeful that others might be drawn to Christ because of it. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the example of Jesus who showed that a Christ-like attitude could and should be kept in every circumstance. In the midst of trials, He was patient. In the midst of suffering, He was hopeful and in the midst of discouragement, He was joyful. May we strive to do the same. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

We won't be shaken - Building 429

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ww9d_c-MVBw

Find the way back

"“Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.”  Joel 2:12

While many people will be working on fulfilling their resolutions and begin running for the first time ever this month, many other people will be "finding the way back" to the sport. You see, for one reason or another, it's easy to backslide and fall away from exercise as many runners can attest to doing. Thankfully, though, renowned coach Jeff Galloway gives these steps for renewing that lost love of the sport: walk first until you're feeling stronger, ease back into it adding walking breaks, establish a routine and listen to your body. He says that by following those steps, you should be up and back to running in no time.

And when it comes to backsliding and falling away, the Bible tells us that people throughout eternity and especially today have found it all too easy to go astray.  But thankfully, "finding the way back" and renewing that lost love is easier than you might think. You see God loves you and me so much that he made the way back very simple... turn from those things that have caused us to leave the straight and narrow and turn back to Him.

So if your number one resolution today is to renew your relationship with Jesus, it all begins with surrendering your heart completely to Him-truly sorry for the things that led you away. And whatever those 'things' may happen to be, you can be sure it's nothing so bad that God would not take you back. He did it for the Israelites time and time again and He wants to do it for you. In fact, he is inviting you today to, "return to me with all your heart..."

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that shows just how deep your mercy, grace, love, forgiveness and kindness are. I pray that if there's anyone longing to return to you today that this would be the moment they would make the decision. This is, after all, the time of new beginnings and it is never too later to make one. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!! 

www.team413.org

Take you back - Jeremy Camp

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x-OvPhsW0VA

the best medicine

"A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." Proverbs 17:22

In a recent article published by Runners World Magazine it was reported that, when it comes to losing weight, diet is crucial. However, when the study looked at exercise in addition to calorie reduction, it found that exercise (especially running) added a major boost. Combining the two, they said, not only helped accelerate weight-loss, but the addition of exercise was beneficial for it's many mental and other physical health benefits too.  So beneficial in fact that obesity researcher Dr. Yoni Freedhoff said that, "Exercise is the best medicine created." 

And if exercise is the best medicine for our bodies, a cheerful heart is most certainly the best medicine for our souls. Soloman knew that when he wrote, "A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." You see when you and I greet others with enthusiasm, a welcoming hug or a word of encouragement, we, with a cheerful heart shared, can be just what the doctor ordered.

And if you've ever been on the receiving end of an unsolicited smile and instinctively smiled back, you know that cheerfulness is contagious but as Tom Stoddard writes, "don't wait to catch it from others. Be a carrier." Spreading cheerfulness.... now that's a great idea don't you think?

Heavenly Father, thank you for being the never-changing source of our joy in a world that would seek to crush our spirits. Help us Lord to share the joy that you give us with others that they too might find refreshing medicine for their souls. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Mandisa - Joy unspeakable

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdA03BLdYr0

It is that important

"Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before." Daniel 6:10

As much as I love my children and enjoyed having them home for Christmas break, I have to admit that I was happy to resume my normal routine again. It seems between the holidays and their needs, my normal practice of running first thing in the morning was disrupted. But you know what? It's okay. Some changes are just worth it. And while I'm alright with that alteration, there's one morning routine that, for me, will never change... spending time alone with the Lord. It's just too important. 

Daniel knew the importance of spending time with God daily too. In fact, when the decree was issued that anyone who prayed to any other god or human being other than King Darius for 30 days would be put to death, Daniel still didn't change his routine. The Bible tells us that when he heard about the order, he went home to his upstairs room and prayed three times a day, "giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before." Just as he had done before? Wow! Not even the threat of death could keep Daniel from his alone time with God. He definitely knew it was just too important. 

And while our prayer or bible-study time will probably never be interrupted by threats, it can be certainly be disrupted by the pressures of our schedules and the demands of our time. Remembering that prayer is our lifeline to God though can remind us just how important sticking to that routine can be. And, like Daniel, cause us to adhere to the pattern no matter the changing circumstances because yes... it is that important.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the reminder that some compromises are okay while there is never a valid reason to abstain from daily prayer and bible study. Help us Lord to realize how important this is in maintaining a strong and unwavering relationship with you. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Give me Jesus - Jeremy Camp

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

Reignite the flame

"Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord." Romans 12:11

At the beginning of Saturday's Run for the Ranch Marathon, the majority of the runners (including me) were wearing layers. But as the race progressed and the participants warmed up, piles of clothes began appearing along the course as gloves, jackets and hats were tossed aside to be picked up later. And while we runners certainly enjoyed the warmth our efforts created on this cold day, those on the sidelines shivered underneath their blankets and coats. It's funny how we were all in the same climate yet some people seemed to be "on fire" while others remained cold isn't it?

You know the same can be said of our spiritual climates as well-some Christians stay "on fire" for God while others let their passion grow cold. Paul knew the dangers of that when he warned the Roman Christians to never lose their zeal but to keep their spiritual fervor or, as Google Dictionary defines it, their intense heat. And the best way to keep from growing cold? By jumping into the race ourselves of course, becoming unwilling to merely sit on the sidelines watching others do the work. You see true zeal inspires action because it's an excitement that cannot be contained. 

John Wesley once wrote, “Get on fire for God and men will come and see you burn.” Imagine the people we could reach with a burning blaze then! So if your flame, or spiritual passion, has gone dim or even completely out, reignite it today by using the gifts and talents God has given you to help others and serve Him. Let's resolve to get "on fire" this new year... and stay that way. 

Heavenly Father. thank you for the reminder that we should all be on fire for you if we are to be impacting the world and reaching others. Help us to be unwilling to simply be a small flicker or to sit on the sidelines Lord. Reignite our passion to get back in the race and blaze so brightly that others would be drawn to You through our acts of service and love. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen, 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Unspoken - Start a fire

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FXHYykW28SA

My fellow TEAM 413 member and friend Robert Garr 

While there is time

"It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, for death is the destiny of everyone; the living should take this to heart." Ecclesiastes 7:2

Out of the many marathons that I have been blessed to run in my life, there was perhaps no other 26.2 mile race in which I did so much reflecting on the past, enjoying the present and contemplating the future than on Saturday. You see not only was it the last day of 2016 and the day most people make resolutions, but it was also the day a dear friend of mine went home to be with the Lord (taken off life support that morning). After suffering a stroke on Christmas, this 34-year-old wife and mother of three slipped into a coma and never recovered leaving a reminder that not one of us can determine when or how we will leave this world.

And when it comes to reminders, Solomon was reminding us how contemplating death could actually help us live life more fully when he wrote that it was better to go into a house of mourning than to one of feasting. He was saying that, although many people avoid thinking about dying or refuse to face the possibility, "death is the destiny of everyone." And by taking that knowledge "to heart" and really grasping the brevity of life, we would be more apt to live life as we should-serving God to the absolute best of our ability and intently loving others with abandon.  

So today, while there is still time, live with purpose. Live with the intent of doing things that will have an eternal impact on the lives of others. Live to serve Jesus as if this moment is all you have because, as Christine Caine wrote, "Life is too short, the world is too big and God's love is too great to live ordinary."

Heavenly Father, thank you for the time you gave to my friend Renee. Thank you for the godly life she led that no doubt inspired others to do the same. And may this serve as a reminder that each and every day is a blessing to be cherished and to be used to make an eternal impact on the world. May we live to serve you with all that we have Lord. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Echo - Blanca

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWOtNV6XQME

In memory of Renee Smith