"Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded." James 4:8
As a running coach, I've seen it many times.. the dreaded running 'rut' or, as google dictionary defines it, a habit or pattern of behavior that has become dull and unproductive but is hard to change. And, as I've learned, this condition can come on suddenly or over time. But regardless of its onset, it always ends up in a runner losing their love of running, at least for a while. And if you think you're immune to it, think again. I've seen even the most die-hard runners fall into the trap and left wondering how they can rekindle the flame. Thankfully, the answer to renewing that love is quite simple-sign up for a new and motivating race. This will force a runner to change their routine, reestablish their goals and regain their focus on the prize.
Sadly, if we're not careful, this same pattern of falling into a 'rut' can extend into our spiritual lives as well. Like running, it can come overnight or over a period of time when we just don't feel God's presence or even feel like praying or going to worship service-a time when there seems to be a chasm so wide between us and God that we fear we will never be able to cross it. But thankfully, we don't have to travel the distance alone because God wants to meet us. The Bible tells us so saying, "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you."
You see when you and I make the choice to move towards God, pursuing him through relentless prayer and Bible study, God will move towards us until there is no longer any 'rut' separating us. So if you're looking to rekindle the flame, change your routine (more Bible study and prayer time), reestablish your goals (to know Christ more and be more like Him) and regain your focus on the prize (eternal life).
Heavenly Father, we thank you for your Word that tells us exactly what it takes to climb out of any spiritual rut we might have let ourselves fall into. I pray that anyone who feels distant from you would pursue you with an unrelenting fervor today until the bridge is gapped and their love for you is restored. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!!!
Draw near - Jeremy Riddle
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