above reproach

"For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined." Titus 1:7,8

In a sport once considered "clean", the growing popularity of trail and ultra-running (with its increasing athlete sponsorships and growing prize money) is now tempting athletes to break the rules and moral codes to win at all costs. So in an attempt to avoid any performance enhancing drug (PED) scandals, Salomon announced the launch of its Clean Sport and Athlete Transparency Initiative on March 22. Their Athlete Transparency Program will be one of the strictest and most transparent of any testing program to date with top athletes being randomly tested up to 10 times per year. Greg Vollet, Salomon’s Global Trail Running Sports and Community Marketing Manager said, “We are initiating this program to create a tool for athletes to prove their integrity; to show that they are clean and to continue to uphold the honor and values of the sport we all love.”

In other words, Salomon is calling their athletes to be "above reproach", or to compete in a way that leaves them immune to criticism. You know the Bible tells us that we, as Christians, are to live exemplary lives too-avoiding pride, being short-tempered, under the influence, violent or greedy. You see, overseers, or those serving in the church, were called to abstain from those behaviors to avoid disgracing the body of Christ or the name of Jesus in any way. And this call to be"above reproach" is the same for all believers today whether in the church or outside it. 

And while competing "above reproach" is important in upholding the honor of the sport we love, it is even more important living "above reproach" that we might uphold the honor of the One we truly love.... our savior Jesus Christ who most assuredly deserves all glory, honor and praise. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that tells us exactly how we should live our lives that there might be no confusion. Help us to live lives of integrity that your name may never be shamed or scandalized. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Live it well - Switchfoot

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQ_UZMYp3mI

http://running.competitor.com/2017/03/news/salomon-launches-clean-sport-athlete-transparency-initiative_163088

Just forgive

"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." Ephesians 4:32

CBS news reported Tuesday that a cyclist named Andrew was attacked by a renegade runner while riding his mountain bike on the popular North Table Mountain Loop trail near Golden, Colorado. Andrew said it started when he repeatedly rang his bell to get the runner's attention so he could pass. The runner, he said, obviously couldn't hear the sound and only acknowledged him after another cyclist got his attention. Apparently, Andrew said, "He didn't like me shaking my head" about it because when they passed one another on the trail later, the runner grabbed him by the throat, punched him twice, kicked him in the back and then threw his bike 50 feet down the mountain. Andrew says he not only wants justice but wants this issue to "spark conversation on how people can treat each other with more respect." 

Unfortunately, incidents like these ending in violence and unkind behavior are becoming more and more common. And while the runner might feel justified in the way he acted, the Bible tells us that this type of behavior is never warranted. You see when it comes to confrontations, feeling wronged and how people should treat others, Paul wrote, "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." And since Christ forgave our most grievous actions against him, including nailing him to the cross, we have no alternative but to pass that same forgiveness on to others. 

I have no doubt that they will find the offender soon as the investigation continues but I only hope that Andrew will offer his offender forgiveness. Forgiveness so sweet that the runner would come to know Christ because of it. Now wouldn't that be a happy ending?

Heavenly Father, thank you for forgiving us of the many things we have done that warranted punishment. Help us to follow the example of Christ as we extend that same tender mercy and forgiveness to others that they might come to know you because of it. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Forgiveness - Toby Mac

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfkhqpl81NA

http://denver.cbslocal.com/2017/03/28/search-on-for-renegade-runner-who-cyclist-says-attacked-him/

stand out

"If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing." 1 Corinthians 13:1-3

Last Sunday, runners from all over the world showed up to participate in the Philadelphia Love Run Half-Marathon. And while thousands of them enjoyed this 13.1 mile race through the "City of Brotherly Love", KUTV reported "a few stand out who finished as a team-and they aren't the ones who won the race." Two of the "few" they talked about were men, who upon seeing a young woman nearing the finish line struggling to stay upright and moving, stopped (sacrificing their own time) to help her by interlocking their arms with hers. And when she could no longer walk or even stand, another runner turned around to join them and carried her to the finish line. 

And do you know why only a few stood out? Because very few people would ever do what this "team" did. You see in today's world, most people only love those who will love them back or give them something in return. But we, as Christians, are called to display the highest form of love, Agape love. This love is given unconditionally, unselfishly and without constraint. It's a love that is willfully and sacrifically displayed even to those that will never earn it, acknowledge it, return it or appreciate it. In fact, it's the same love Jesus showed us when he died on the cross.

So let us be the few that stand out today and show the world the love it so desperately needs by our actions. Because as the Bible tells us, no matter what you and I do, if "we have not love", we gain nothing. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your son who displayed the highest form of love when he took our place to die on the cross. Help us to imitate his example and chase no PR or medal at the expense of helping someone. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen,

Happy Running!!!

Proof of your love - Sidewalk Prophets

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OgqYYk-0wDs

http://kutv.com/news/offbeat/philadelphia-half-marathon-heroes-help-woman-cross-finish-line 

 

We are a team

"As good servant managers of God's grace in its various forms, serve one another with the gift each of you has received. " 1 Peter 4:10 

Washington University defines a team as a group of people with different skills and tasks who work together to achieve a common goal with a meshing of functions and mutual support. And a "team", I realized as I crossed the finish line of the Prairie Spirit 100 mile race Sunday morning, is a priceless thing to have around you. You see no great thing is ever done alone. For every runner that achieved his or her goal last weekend, there was a group of people assisting them along the way, content with using their skills and abilities to help with absolutely little or no recognition.

You know this sacrificial behavior is the exact one we, as Christians, are called to display to one another as well. You see, each and every one of us has been given special gifts and talents. And as good servants and "managers of God's grace", these "various forms" of skills and abilities were never meant for our exclusive enjoyment to do with as we wish-but to be used to "serve one another" instead by meshing the gifts together. So you see everyone has something to offer and no person's contribution is less important than another's. In a team, everyone matters.

Pastor Rick Warren says it this way, "Nobody is good at everything. You need me, and I need you. Nobody has every talent. There are no perfect people who can say to the world, “I don’t need anybody else.” We need each other. We were made to work in teams!"

Heavenly Father, thank you for those people in our lives that support and help us when we need it. Help us to be that person to others, continually looking for needs that we can fill and in this way show your love to the world. May our behavior inspire others to know you. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Fee - Send me out

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8ZGQPW7OXg

Keep walking

"But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded." 2 Chronicles 15:7

This past weekend, the fifth annual Prairie Spirit Trail 50k/50 & 100 mile races took place in Ottawa, Kansas. Opting to do the 100 mile distance, some friends and I were off and running by 6:00 a.m Saturday. Knowing that this would be a hard event to complete and most definitely not a sprint, I quickly settled into a slow and steady rhythm that I hoped would get me to the finish line before the 30-hour cutoff. Nearing mile 60 though, I was keenly aware that I lacked the strength to keep up the pace and told myself, "You can slow down but keep running!" And a slow run I did for the next 10 miles until I realized that running was no longer an option. With my feet swollen and blistered and my thinking altered by a lack of sleep, I debated giving up until my son, Luke, joined me and said, "Just keep walking!" So walk we did. For the next ten hours, he and I walked in the cold, dark night on the desolate trail to make it to the finish line. As hard as it was to keep moving and stay focused, giving up was not an option. We decided that we would even crawl if we had to because, as my son reminded me, "You've come too far to turn back now." 

You know when it comes to serving God, I, like most people, would prefer an easy task wouldn't you? Something that doesn't cost me or cause me pain. But God never told us that it would be easy did He? Or that our service would come without sacrifice? But He did tell us to be strong and to never give up in the pursuit of those things He called us to giving us this promise, "your work will be rewarded." You see, although we are all called to serve in different ways, you and I will always experience those easy times when we are off and running, the difficult ones when we slow down to a walk and then the downright back-breaking and exhausting periods when all we can manage is a crawl. But the one thing we have to remind ourselves is to never give up and to keep moving forward. 

And while I received a coveted belt buckle for my pursuit on the course, that was not the reason I was running. You see I am a servant of Christ and in pursuit of a higher calling-to share the Good News wherever I am sent. So I urge you today, wherever God has called you and whatever he has called you to... run, walk or crawl in your pursuit of it but never ever give up. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the many blessings in our lives. Thank you for the individual calling you have placed on each one of us and for the promise that you would give us the strength and ability to complete it whether by running, walking or crawling. Help us Lord to remember that promise and, no matter how hard it gets, to never ever give up. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Move - TobyMac

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MX1G71WK-FA

With my son who would later pace me to the finish line

A very emotional finish with a friend who finished nearly an hour before me

Ready to run

Started off with prayer

not by deeds

"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." Ephesians 2:8,9

In a recent Knowridge Science Report, it was determined that the positive benefits of engaging in regular physical activity might just outweigh the negative effects being overweight or obese has on the cardiovascular system in middle-aged and elderly people. The study showed that, compared to normal weight people with high physical activity levels, overweight or obese individuals with comparable high levels of physical activity were no longer at an increased risk of heart disease. "Our results show that physical activity plays a crucial role in the health of middle age to elderly people,” said one author.

You know when it comes to measuring, or weighing, the rewards and benefits of certain activities, many people believe they can do the same with Salvation. Have you ever heard someone say, "I'm a good person so I'm sure I will go to Heaven"? Well what exactly is a good person anyway? Someone whose good deeds outweigh their bad? Thankfully the Bible tells us that we have been saved by grace through our faith in Jesus. It's by no work we have done or could ever do. In fact, doing a million good deeds in the course of a lifetime would not even save us. 

So don't be fooled today thinking that you or anyone else will enter Heaven as a "result of works" or being a good person. It is only by believing in Jesus Christ that anyone can be saved. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would tell us exactly what it takes to have eternal life with you. Help us then to be bold to share that with others that they might not believe the lies this world has told but come to know you that they too might have salvation. May we forever boast that we are sinners saved by grace through faith and not deeds. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

More than works - Apologetix

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EoVWo7YeO4w

https://knowridge.com/2017/03/benefits-of-exercise-may-outweigh-impact-of-obesity-on-cardiovascular-disease/

Lay it down

"Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved." Psalm 55:22

Erin, a 39-year-old female from San Diego, California revealed on Tuesday's episode of the The Doctors that she is addicted to exercise-running or working out for up to eight hours every day. And even though she says she never gets tired or sore, she admitted that her excessive workouts don't make her feel good and are literally destroying her body and ruining her health. So why does she keep doing it then? Because she is carrying around a heavy load of despair, "Eight months ago I got a message from a girl. It triggered a memory that I had suppressed for 30 years. Basically from that time on I’ve been adding on exercise so that I can just forget about that whole nightmare of those four years of life.”

While Erin never explained what happened in those four years, you can be sure that it was something that she desperately wanted to let go of and forget. And she is not alone. Bad things happen every single day, even to Christians. And these burdens were never meant to be carried alone. In fact, they were never meant to be carried at all! God tells us to give him all those things that weigh us down, our guilt, fears, worries, bad memories and troubled pasts, for a reason. He wants to take them and in exchange "sustain" us or, as the definition implies, strengthen us physically, spiritually, mentally and emotionally never letting those he loves "be moved".

As this story shows, it's when we hold on to the things that have hurt us that we will look for any way we can to cope with the pain, even self-destructive ways. But nothing we can ever do and no addiction we can ever form will ever heal the hurt inside or be a permanent solution. God is the answer... the only answer. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would invite us to lay all our cares, shame, worry, regret and fears on you. Thank you for the promise of restoration when we turn to you. I pray that anyone hurting today would listen to the sound of your voice and decide that today is the day to lay it all down and start a new life. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

One step away - Casting Crowns

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

http://people.com/bodies/exercise-addict-the-doctors/

a lifetime ban

"Nevertheless, in your great mercies you did not make an end of them or forsake them, for you are a gracious and merciful God." Nehemiah 9:31

In a statement issued late Monday by the Chinese Athletics Association (CAA), it was announced that China, in an attempt to clamp down on the scandals that have dogged the fast-growing sport of marathon running, will now ban cheaters for life. This ban would include people who run under false names, replace a runner with another person during the race or have more than one identifying PIN chip. First time offenders will receive a lifetime ban from the race in which they cheated and a second offence will result in a ban for life from all Chinese marathons. Wow, there will certainly be no mercy shown to any runner breaking the rules will there?

Thankfully though, when it comes to receiving mercy, God is very gracious to not give us what we deserve. You see, you and I are sinners and fall short of "playing by the rules" each and every day. But from our first offense to our hundredth, God puts no limits on the number of times we can come to him to receive compassion and forgiveness when our actions have warranted not only punishment but a lifetime ban from his presence. Talk about some extraordinary mercy!

And just how great are his mercies? Charles Spurgeon says it this way, "God's mercy is so great that you may sooner drain the sea of its water, or deprive the sun of its light, or make space too narrow, than diminish the great mercy of God." Wow!  He truly is a "gracious and merciful God", isn't he?

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would choose to give us mercy time and again when we are deserving of death and punishment. You are truly a gracious and merciful God deserving of all our praise. Thank you Lord! It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

When Mercy found me - Rhett Walker Band

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zOzpTgGZ2M

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/sport/athletics-life-bans-for-china-s-marathon-cheats/3612646.html

the gap

"For there is only one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity--the man Christ Jesus." 1 Timothy 2:5

In 2013, Carol Chau of San Jose, California signed up for her first race. She had been a casual runner when she was younger but let the stresses of life and a career take over. She said that it was her sister Helen, who lived in Hong Kong and had just won her battle with cancer, who motivated her decision. You see Helen, intent on making her life healthier, signed up for a 10k prompting her sister to do the same. At the finish line of her first race, Carol joyfully sent a selfie to Helen and they, along with a third sister, began planning to race a 10k together. Chau said, "an ocean separated her family, but a love of running bridged the gap."

You know sin, like an ocean, also has the power to separate us. In fact, the Bible tells us that we were all separated from God because of it at one time. But Jesus, the "one Mediator" stood between us and God to bring us together again. By his death on the cross, Christ bridged the gap and reconciled us to him. And not because he had to-but because he wanted to.

Isn't that an amazing thought? That we have a Savior who loved us so much that he came down from Heaven to provide a way, the only way, to eternal life with Him! Oh the name of Jesus... what a wonderful, beautiful and powerful Name it is. It has the power to bridge even the biggest of gaps. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would send your son to die for us to bridge the gap that could not have been bridged by any other Name. Help us to boldly share this Good News with others that they can know the one way to Salvation and the Name that saves. What a powerful Name it is. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

What a beautiful Name it is - Hillsong 

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

http://running.competitor.com/2017/01/sponsored/ambition-effect-setting-goal-can-change-life_159804

make no idols

"Do not make idols or set up an image or a sacred stone for yourselves, and do not place a carved stone in your land to bow down before it. I am the LORD your God." Leviticus 26:1

In an article titled, "The Pros Aren’t Always Perfect: Lessons Learned From Elite Runners", world-class runners admitted that when it comes to training they too make mistakes. And the most common regret, or mistakes, elites own up to? In their words, "taking the sport too seriously and getting sucked into the hunt for podium spots and prize money." Tyler McCandless, a 2:15:26 marathoner, who reported that he has worked hard over the past years to maintain a better balance in his life said. “for me, I found it’s important to have something other than running."

Well not only is it important to have something other than running to maintain balance in a person's life, it is essential to keep running or any other sport, hobby or job in it's proper place. You see the Bible clearly warns us to "not make idols" for ourselves (which these things might become) because, while idols may come in the form of "an image or a sacred stone", they most likely will come in the form of money, success, reputation or fame. What a great reminder that any person, object or activity that becomes more important than God should be something we avoid or alter. 

So if you're wondering today whether something or someone has become an idol, ask yourself this question, "Is there any one or any thing that I am pursuing above and before my pursuit of Christ and my relationship with Him?" If the answer is yes, it's time to make a change isn't it?

Heavenly Father, thank you for being worthy of all our honor and commitment. Please reveal to us any part of our lives that would serve to be an idol and snare to us that we might turn from it and turn back to you with all our hearts, souls and minds. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

The Cause of Christ - Kari Jobe

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=byHwKMa6NJY

http://running.competitor.com/2015/09/training/the-pros-arent-always-perfect-lessons-learned-from-elite-runners_135249?utm_medium=whats-hot

So worth it

"Yes,” Jesus replied, “and I assure you that everyone who has given up house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the Kingdom of God, will be repaid many times over in this life, and will have eternal life in the world to come.” Luke 18:29, 30

When it comes to running day after day, have you ever asked yourself, "Is it really worth it?" Well according to competitor.com, the answer is definitely yes. Among the many benefits of continuing to lace up, other than the obvious one of improving fitness, are better overall mental health, stronger lungs and immune system, lower blood pressure, weight control, stress relief and increased confidence. Even though it will be hard at times, it sounds like it will indeed be worth the effort to keep pounding the pavement doesn't it?

But let's get real here. Have you ever asked yourself this question, "Is it really worth it to follow Christ?" When you look around and see people working and gaining worldly things, seeming to be very happy, at the expense of devoting their time to worship? Or reveling in and enjoying all the pleasures of the world rather than committing themselves to serving the Lord and doing his work? Well according to the Bible the answer is unquestionably yes. You see, the things of this world are temporary and will pass away-not even one possession any one of us has worked for will follow us into the next world. But to his followers, Jesus gives the promise that everyone who has given up the things of this world, "for the sake of the Kingdom of God, will be repaid many times over in this life and will have eternal life in the world to come."

And while there's no denying the fact that following Christ will be hard and will come at a cost, Jesus tells us repeatedly that it will indeed be worth the effort. I believe that today, do you?

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that promises us that serving you has eternal benefits far greater than any temporary ones this world could offer. When we doubt or question why it is we serve, help us to remember the sacrifice you made on the cross to bring us eternal life, ensuring that it will be worth it. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Brandon Heath - No turning back

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

spiritual schizophrenia

"Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me."

While running in the frigid cold yesterday morning, every part of my body covered but my eyes, I passed by a woman sitting on her front porch bundled up and enjoying her morning cigarette. "Boy, you're brave, " she called out. I told her that the word for it would more likely be crazy to which she smiled and agreed. If she only knew that I used to be even crazier I thought. You see, I suffered from what I would call "spiritual schizophrenia" or, as the condition is defined, a mentality or approach characterized by inconsistent or contradictory elements. I was one person at church and another one entirely at home, one person in public and another in private. And I was miserable! Until the day I decided no more and prayed for change. 

You know, David did the same. While portraying himself as a follower of God, he was far different in secret. Not only did he lust after and commit adultery with Bathsheba getting her pregnant, but had her husband killed to hide the transgression. Talk about some "spiritual schizophrenia". When David finally came to his senses and realized the enormity of what he had done, he earnestly and repentantly cried out to God, "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me." And you know what? The Lord heard his prayer and answered it. Just as he did mine. 

Perhaps you're experiencing the same condition today? Well let me tell you, my friend, Jesus is the cure. Only he has the power to transform your heart, spirit and mind. And he can if you will simply call out to him and allow it. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would patiently convict us of the things we need to change in our lives. And thank you for hearing our prayers when we cry out to you and giving us a new, clean heart and a right spirit. How much better it is to be cured of the inconsistency in our spiritual lives. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen,

Happy Running!!!

Unspoken - The cure

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

Keep it fastened

"Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness," Ephesians 6:14

On March 5, Seattle runner Kelly Herron was 4 miles into a 10-mile run through the Golden Gates Park when she stopped to use the restroom and was attacked by a man hiding in a stall. About the assault she said, "I fought for my life screaming, clawing his face, punching back, and desperately trying to escape his grip—never giving up.” Thankfully Herron had just taken a self defense class and used what she learned to fight him off even locking him in a bathroom until the police came. Without that knowledge, this certainly could have been a story with a bad ending though. Wouldn't you agree?

And when it comes to being attacked, the Bible tells us we will face battles every day...  spiritual battles with an attacker so evil and cunning that he would do anything to take us down. But thankfully, you and I don't have to take a class to know that the our first defense in fighting off this adversary, the devil, is to stand firm and wear truth like a belt. This "belt of truth" is our integrity and our foundation for us to fight against the enemy. This integrity is not only being honest, moral and upright when people can see our actions but even when they can't. It's being the same person throughout the week that we are on Sunday and not only knowing God's truth but showing it by the way we live our lives. 

And while none of us will ever be perfect or able to follow God's commands completely, doing our best to keep that belt fastened tightly will keep us from being labeled hypocrites and help us fend off any attack that comes our way. So, as Herron later said after her attack, "never stop fighting and never stop running."

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that gives us everything we need to fight off satan and his attacks. Help us Lord to not only learn it but to put it into practice in every area of our lives. Help us to be the same person at home and at work as the one we portray at church. In other words, let us be people of integrity. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.


Happy Running!!!

Praise and arrows - Trip Lee

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFwyE8WUPOo

http://womensrunning.competitor.com/2017/03/news/seattle-runner-escapes-attack-using-self-defense_72809#UjjFT1OFfqBELLUk.97

Mentally tough

"The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you." Romans 8:11

Competitor Magazine defined the mental toughness of a runner as "the capacity to reliably perform at your best regardless of external conditions, distractions or internal emotions". The mentally tough runners, they say, share seven traits including resilience, focus, strength, preparation, vision, trust and openness-with openness being "the ability to learn and be open to all possibilities. The mentally tough runner is willing to listen and take feedback, knowing that’s where real changes take place. You listen to that inner voice that says, “I can do this. I have all the tools and resources inside to create my own success.'"

You know that same trait is one that mentally tough Christians share too. It's the knowledge of knowing and believing that we have everything, all the tools and resources, inside to be successful in the things God has called us to. And you and I can have this assurance because the Bible tells us that "The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you." Did you get that? The same power that raised Jesus from the grave is the very same power that lives in each of us!

So the next time you're wondering whether you can complete the seemingly impossible mission or job God has given you, listen to that inner voice, the Holy Spirit, who lives inside of you and says, "You can do this. You have all the power you need because I am giving it to you." 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that reminds us that all the power we need is within because it is you who resides in us. Help us to remember that every day so we can become mentally tough as Christians, strengthened and intent on reaching others with the Gospel. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Same power - Jeremy Camp

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3loyOnxozJQ

http://running.competitor.com/2014/02/training/7-traits-of-mentally-tough-runners_68365

Ultra Endurance

"For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised." Hebrews 10:36

This weekend was the first annual Racing for Daylight Ultra Endurance Event hosted by Greater Missouri TEAM 413. The eight-hour event which began at 6 p.m. and ended at 2 a.m. (3 a.m. due to Daylight Savings time) allowed the participants to run, walk and/or bike a portion of the race or the entire thing depending on each person's fitness level. And if Merriam Webster defines ultra as going beyond due limit (or our perceived limitations) and endurance as the ability to sustain a prolonged stressful effort or activity, completing the race would require ultra endurance or extraordinary persistence, determination and staying power.

And this same staying power is exactly what the Bible tells us that you and I "have need of" if we are to persevere and hold firm in times of trial. You see, there will be times in our lives when you and I will feel pressured to give up and turn away from Christ, thus quitting the race. But it's then, by the endurance gained from walking with Jesus and consistently doing his will, that we can continue to live for Him that "we may receive what is promised." And you can be sure that this promised reward will be much better than any medal you and I could ever earn. 

And while a winner might be defined as a victor especially in games and sports, Alistair Begg reminds us that, "The only true conqueror who shall be crowned in the end is he who continues until war's trumpet is blown no more.... Christian, wear your shield close to your armor and cry earnestly to God, that by His Spirit you may endure to the end." 

Heavenly Father, thank you so very much for your Word that promises that our ultra and extraordinary endurance to the faith has greater rewards than anything this world could offer. Help us to conquer fatigue, pain and obstacles along the way as we make a commitment to finish the race and endure to the end. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Kari Jobe - the cause of Christ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=byHwKMa6NJY

Runners ran through the night to complete the race

The brave endured the cold to the end

https://www.facebook.com/ashley.legall.1/videos/1354502864572259/

Brace yourself

"We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance." Romans 5:3

While running into a headwind is never fun, it can sometimes be unavoidable as runners in the Foulees des 2 Rives 14k in Brest, France, found out Sunday. As they crossed the Plougastel Bridge, which is nearly 100 feet above the Elorn River and about a half mile in length, wind gusts reached higher than 40 miles per hour forcing runners to brace themselves or even slow down to a walk. This was one day when purposely training to run into the wind would most certainly have paid off. 

You know, while problems and trials in this life are never fun, they are many times unavoidable as well. But the Bible tells us that those are the very things we need to "develop endurance". You see, each small problem that we "run into" prepares us for a bigger one, then a bigger one and so on. And perseverance, or as vocabulary.com defines it, the effort required to do something and keep doing it till the end even if it's hard, is the exact quality that makes us more like Christ who let nothing stop him in his pursuit to fulfill his purpose.

So if you're facing a headwind and experiencing trouble, hardship or a set-back today, consider it training my friend. Brace yourself, hold on tightly to the promises of Jesus and "rejoice" that you are getting stronger.

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that reminds us that problems and trials are useful and necessary to strengthen our faith and to make us into the people that you can use. Help us then to rejoice knowing that you are with us through them and that we will come out better trained to battle what lies ahead. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org 

Mandisa - Stronger

https://youtu.be/MrcIN54E7Kk

 

http://www.runnersworld.com/briefs/watch-the-wind-in-this-french-race-is-insane

They will know

"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34, 35

In a recent Runner's World article, Nancy, who started running three weeks ago, asked the question that many other beginning runners have asked, "Do I have to race to be a true "runner"? My answer to that would be of course not and the writer agreed replying, "No, you absolutely do not have to do a race in order to be considered a “runner". For me, a person becomes a runner the moment they realize that they enjoy moving more than not moving. When you enjoy running, you run on a regular basis, whether that is two or three days a week—or seven. A runner looks forward to his or her runs and plans days around their runs. If he or she can’t run for some reason, they miss it. It’s not about pace, distance, or races. It’s about your mindset and about your commitment to get out the door and move."

And one thing is certain, when you are a "runner" it will be obvious to those around you just as it should have been when you became a Christian. It should be so obvious to those around us because of our changed behavior and, most importantly, our Christ-like love for others. In fact the Bible tells us, "As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples..." Did you get that part though? As I have loved you? Jesus loved us when we cursed him and didn't love him back. He loved the prostitute, the drug addict, the adulterer, the homeless man and those afflicted with disease. He loved each one of us with a selfless love, giving all he had yet getting nothing in return. 

So if you've ever wondered whether you are a true Christian, ask yourself these questions. Am I loving others the way Jesus loved me? And am I loving them so much that it is obvious to others? I hope the answer is yes-because the world will only know we are Christians by our love. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would endure death on a cross for us. Help us Lord to love others in the same way that we might lead them to you. May our love be so evident that the world will know, without a doubt, that we are your disciples. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

They will know we are Christians - Jars of Clay

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cfg5VTyDkyA

I will trust in you

"When the foundations are being destroyed, what can the righteous do?" Psalm 11:3

As a runner and a race director, I have come to realize that no matter how carefully an event is planned, there are always going to be things that are absolutely and completely out of my control or anyone else's. Take the weather for instance. When picking Saturday's date for our ultra-marathon, I certainly could not have known that a cold front was going to move in unexpectedly like a slap to the face. And while the race will still take place, it certainly won't be as comfortable as I'd hoped and prayed for.

And unfortunately for you and me, there will be always be more things than the weather that will be out of our control. Our best made plans can instantly be torn apart by disease, death, divorce or disasters that seemingly move in, like a slap to the face, from out of nowhere. It's during these times we can feel as if our world is falling apart. David certainly did when he begged the question, "When the foundations are being destroyed, what can the righteous do?" You see, being God's anointed king did not make him immune to trials or tragedy. He, like us, experienced things that were completely out of his control. But the one thing David knew that gave him comfort was that, during these times, God was always in control.

And no matter what you and I may be going through, if our foundations are shaking and we are looking for answers wondering "what can the righteous do?", we can have that same assurance. The blessed assurance David had when he wrote, "When I am afraid, I put my trust in you."(Psalm 56:3) Won't you trust in Him today? After all, that's most definitely what the righteous would do.

Heavenly Father, thank you for promising that you would always be with us. When we are afraid and feel like our world is falling apart, help us to know that you hear our every prayer and see our every tear. And when we don't understand why some things happen, may we simply rest in your presence and trust in you. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

I will trust in you - Lauren Daigle

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

the victory lap

"Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours is the kingdom, O LORD, and you are exalted as head above all."

Just moments after winning the 1,500-meter race at the European Athletics Indoor Championships Saturday, Laura Muir set off to take her victory lap around the track. When a track official stepped in to stop her, citing a tight timetable, Muir ran anyway later saying, "I had to fight for that didn't I? They said: 'We don't have time.' I thought it's my first medal. I'm not going to lose out on my lap of honor." In other words, this 23-year-old runner from Scotland was not going to be denied the rightful esteem, value, or great respect  (as honor is defined) she had just earned. 

And you know that, when it comes to receiving honor, there is no one more worthy of that victory lap than the Lord. David knew it when he wrote the words, "Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours is the Kingdom, O LORD, and you are exalted as head above all." You see, David was acknowledging that everything he had, every victory and success and every good thing, was from God and he would let nothing keep him from giving that honor to Him.

I wonder today, are you letting anything stop you from giving God the rightful esteem, value and great respect that he has earned? And if you are, why? After all, victory comes only through Him.  

Heavenly Father, thank you for being the maker of all good things. Thank you for being worthy of all honor, praise and glory simply because you and you alone are God. You made us for the purpose of glorifying your name and may that always be our focus. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen, 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

All honor All glory - Ron Kenoly

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwR4j4xZNEc

ttps://www.washingtonpost.com/news/early-lead/wp/2017/03/05/a-track-official-tried-to-stop-a-victory-lap-but-the-runner-was-simply-too-fast/?utm_term=.43a22be04b11

Anyone can

"What do you mean, ‘If I can’?” Jesus asked. “Anything is possible if a person believes." Mark 9:23

While I enjoy traveling to long-distance running events and meeting new people, I really take delight in running in our local races. These runs can feel like happy reunions with the same people participating time and again. Even so, to say that I was pleasantly surprised to see a new face in the crowd Saturday would be an understatement. Miss B (as the kids call her), our school's music teacher, was there to walk her very first 5k. After making the decision to make a life change many months ago, this amazing lady began an exercise regimen, changed her eating habits and lost more than 80 pounds. When I told her how inspiring it was to have witnessed her transformation, she said, "Thanks. It's all about moving... walking, jogging, dancing. It's become fun for me. If I can do it, anyone can!"

And you know what? She's right. Anyone can do it... if they believe. Did you know that the Bible also tells us about the power of believing? When the father of a demon-possessed boy brought his son to Jesus to be healed, he said, "But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us." And Jesus' response? "What do you mean, 'If I can'? Anything is possible if a person believes." And while Jesus did not mean that we can have everything we want if we just think positively, he made it clear that, by faith, nothing is too difficult for God. 

So whatever your goal may be, whether it's eating healthier, losing weight, running a 5k or even a marathon, remember that nothing is impossible with God. We simply need to ask and believe. After all, the things that are impossible in our strength are always possible in His. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for being the God of the impossible. Where we fail, you prevail. Help us to remember that, by your strength, there's no goal that brings you glory that we cannot accomplish. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Impossible - Building 429

http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=0C20BCNU

And here she goes! Her first bib and her first race. Upon finishing, she posted this, "5K finished...loved the walking.... didn't like the end when everyone watches you come in...it's nice...but I'd rather just finish quietly. My big accomplishment...surviving every huge Crocker hill...because I think they were all on the route! Bucket list item checked off!

Finish strong

"I am still as strong today as the day Moses sent me out; I’m just as vigorous to go out to battle now as I was then. Now give me this hill country that the Lord promised me that day. You yourself heard then that the Anakites were there and their cities were large and fortified, but, the Lord helping me, I will drive them out just as he said.” Joshua 14:11, 12

The Washington Post recently reported that Dixon Hemphill, 92, was narrowly defeated by Orville Rogers, 99, in the 60-meter race at the USA Track and Field masters indoor championships on February 18. In a photo finish, Rogers out-leaned Hemphill, winning in 18.00 seconds to Hemphill’s 18.05. Of his narrow loss and plans for a rematch, Hemphill, a fixture in the Washington-area running community for over half a century said,  “I just want to run faster than I’m running. My training is not complete. I’m not doing long distance running. I want to add at least two to three miles. . . . Orville Rogers is doing more mileage than me in a week. That’s not right in my mind. I should be doing more. I think it’ll make a difference.”

Wow. These nonagenarian runners are further proof that great things can be accomplished with the right attitude and faithfulness to keep training even into old age. Caleb son of Jephunneh certainly knew it too. At 40 years old, he was one of only two spies (among 12) to return from Canaan with the favorable report that the giants could be defeated. For his faith, Caleb was promised a personal inheritance of land. Forty-five years later, Caleb, whose faith was still unwavering, was given the land. And even though the land still had giants, he confidently declared, "I'm just as vigorous to go out to battle now as I was then... the Lord helping me, I will drive them out just as he said." 

You know, you and I would do well to study and follow the example of Caleb who was faithful from start to finish-never wavering in his belief that, with the Lord helping him, there was nothing he could not do. That attitude, my friend, would most definitely make a difference in all our lives.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the strength you have promised to provide if we would only have the faith to ask and receive it. Help us to remember that, until we reach Heaven, our training and our work is never complete. With your help, we can conquer giants at any age. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413 org

Strong finish - Jonathon Nelson

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

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/dc-sports-bog/wp/2017/02/28/92-year-old-runner-cant-wait-for-a-rematch-after-video-of-race-goes-viral/?utm_term=.0e0f669e9a94

Just do it

"There remained among the people of Israel seven tribes whose inheritance had not yet been apportioned. So Joshua said to the people of Israel, “How long will you put off going in to take possession of the land, which the LORD, the God of your fathers, has given you?" Joshua 18:2,3

"We have to run the mile in gym class tomorrow and I'm not ready for it" my daughter, Hope, nervously told me. "Well how long have you known you would have to do this?" was my reply. She revealed that she had known about it for more than a month but, since she didn't like running, put it off until the last minute. I had to smile as Hope went on to tell me that her plan to succeed was to practice on the treadmill that night and then eat a healthy meal (this was after finishing her Honeybun). Oh if it were only that easy I thought.

But wouldn't you agree that every one of us, at one time or another, has put off a task that really wasn't pleasant? The Bible tells us that even the Israelites did it. When seven of the tribes had not yet settled down, Joshua asked why they were putting off the job of "going in to take possession of the land". The answer quite simply was that they were avoiding this "unpleasant" task because it would require hard work (fighting the Canaanites) and absolute obedience-things that would not be easy but were necessary.

So the next time you're considering putting off a large, difficult or unpleasant task, consider that doing so might just be disobedience. And if God has called you to do something today then, like Nike says, just do it. You'll save yourself from the stress, sweat and stewing that procrastination always brings.

Heavenly Father, thank you for showing us time and again that your plans for us are always perfectly timed. Help us to be obedient to the things you are calling us to as you call us to them and help us to make this a lifetime habit. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

I'll just say yes - Brian Courtney Wilson

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