Watch out

"Watch out that you do not lose what we have worked for, but that you may be rewarded fully." 2 John 1:8

Ten years after placing third in the 10,000 meters at the  2007 IAAF World Championships in Osaka, Kara Goucher will exchange her bronze medal for a silver one and officially be declared the second place winner. You see, after recent efforts by the International Association of Athletics Federations to retest samples using improved technology, Elvan Abeylegesse's 2007 sample was tested and found to contain a banned steroid. As a result, second place winner Abeylegesse was given a two-year competition ban from 2007 to 2009 and stripped of all rewards and medals won during that time (including the silver she won in Osaka).

While it's certainly a shame to see a runner lose a medal they worked so hard to achieve, it's an even bigger shame to see a Christian lose their full reward by following or adhering to false teachings, a common practice in the apostle John's time. And since there are still many false teachers today, we would be wise to heed John's warning to "watch out", or to be on alert, for any type of spiritual deception. And because deceitful leaders can sometimes be hard to spot, we would do well to "not lose what we have worked for" by making sure the words and actions of any leader we follow or listen to matches exactly what God says in the Bible. 

So let us read our Bibles diligently and daily because as J.C. Ryle writes, "It is the neglect of the Bible which makes so many a prey to the first false teacher whom they hear." And being a victim to the teachings of false doctrine can cause you to lose much more than a medal my friend. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that so clearly tells us what the Truth is. Help us to know it so well that we would spot any leader or person teaching or acting in any way contrary to it that we might "watch out" and not be deceived. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

God is not a secret - Newsboys

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U5ghRP0BuFA

http://www.runnersworld.com/performance-enhancing-drugs/kara-goucher-set-to-receive-2007-medal-after-athlete-fails-drug-test

Empathy matters

"Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous;" 1 Peter 3:8

The Leadville 100 Trail Race in Colorado (set to take place next month) is widely known as one of the most grueling 100 mile races in the world. As such, many runners fail to meet the time standards throughout the course every year or are deemed as unsafe to continue and are 'cut' by Sandy Monahan, aka the Cutoff Queen, whose job it is to tell you when your race is over. But, as a fellow runner, Monahan has seen the "distasteful" way this has been done by others and is determined to be courteous about it. So courteous, in fact, that race director Merilee Maupin said, "Sandy’s empathy for the runners she must cut is so very evident and she has a way of making each person know that they dug deep, gave it their all and that each fulfilled their personal promise to commit, not quit."

You know there will come a time in each of our lives-whether in our jobs, as parents or as friends- that we will need to tell someone something that they don't want to hear. And when this happens, the Bible tells us that we, like Sandy, are to have empathy saying, "love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous." In other words, since as fellow believers we have Christ abiding in our hearts, you and I are to show the same "compassion", or genuine concern and heart felt empathy, to others that Jesus showed us. 

So today and every day, let us be kind in our speech and "tenderhearted" in our actions. And may we, like Jesus, make an effort to understand and feel what others might be feeling so we might "be courteous". After all, our words may be the difference between a brother or sister staying discouraged or taking heart and becoming encouraged. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the example of Jesus, who was always filled with compassion for the lost, lonely and hurting, that we have to follow. Help us to truly feel what others do that we might be able to love them as we are called and tenderhearted in our speech and actions. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Take a little time - Jeremy Camp

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Uww883KnqA

http://running.competitor.com/2017/07/news/leadville-cutoff-queen_166492

Check your anger

"A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man holds it in check." Proverbs 29:11

The Washington Post reported early yesterday that Chala Beyo, a 21-year-old Ethiopian steeplechase runner who competed at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics, was banned for two years from all competitions for punching his coach, Yohanned Mohammed. It seems he gave "full vent to his anger" upon learning that he didn't make the team for next month's world championships and lashed out against his trainer leaving Mohammed with an injured left eye.

And if you think this type of unrestrained anger is rare, consider that one out of every five Americans admits to having an anger management problem while nearly 80% of all drivers admitted to having some type of road rage. And while it's not always wrong to feel angry, it is always wrong to give "full vent" to those feelings. You see, unleashed fury not only hurts other people and destroys our witness, but ruins both the joy and the health of those who can't control it. So it's no wonder then that the Bible says, "a wise man holds it in check."

Perhaps you're one of the many people struggling to hold back your anger today? If you are, I urge you to take it to the Lord in prayer and allow the Holy Spirit to fill your heart and control your behavior. Because, as you can see, we are powerless to do it in our own strength. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that tells us how we are to behave as Christians and how dangerous giving full vent to our anger is for our health and for our Christian walk. Help us to turn to you daily to become so spirit filled that anger would have no place in our hearts. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

I'm angry - Lecrae

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

http://www.ucdmc.ucdavis.edu/hr/hrdepts/asap/Documents/Anger_Management.pdf
https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/ethiopian-runner-assaults-coach-after-missing-worlds-team/2017/07/27/4457931a-72dd-11e7-8c17-533c52b2f014_story.html?utm_term=.7477632183e0
http://newsroom.aaa.com/2016/07/nearly-80-percent-of-drivers-express-significant-anger-aggression-or-road-rage/

Pray for them

"Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you." Luke 6:28

Bill Finkbeiner, a Sacramento Running Association Hall of Famer, was severely injured last month when a bicyclist collided with him while he was running on the American River Parkway. The accident left him with facial fractures, a broken thumb and several broken teeth. And while Finkbeiner believes the person should be charged with a hit-and-run and punished, the Sacramento County District Attorney's Office can't prove that the person committed a crime since the evidence points to it being an accident. 

You know, if we're honest, each and every one of us would admit that we've been hurt by something someone has said or done and know that it's a natural reaction to want those people who have wronged us to be punished. But the Bible clearly tells us that we are never to take revenge (Romans 12:19) but are to react in a way directly contrary to what we might feel like doing and to bless those people who curse us and pray for those who hurt us. 

And while our our actions may not always lead a wrong-doer to Christ, they will be an example to those around us of the love of Jesus. You see when He abides in our hearts, we can't help but show others His love-even when it goes contrary to what the world might do. So bless and pray for your enemies my friend. It just might lead them, or someone else, to the Father. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that so clearly states how we are to react when people curse or hurt us. Help us to follow the example of Christ that we might be a light to those around us and, perhaps, lead them to the foot of the Cross by doing so. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Forgiveness - Matthew West
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1Lu5udXEZI

http://www.kcra.com/article/bicyclist-will-not-be-charged-for-hitting-sacramento-runner/10360908

Let it go

"I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world." John 16:33

On July 4, Bill Ferm, a 66-year-old lawyer from Maine, celebrated a running streak in which he has run at least one mile every day for 41 years. He admitted that it was never his goal to run more than 14,965 days in a row but said, "I just really enjoy it.... on my way out, I think of everything that is bothering me and try to let it go. Then on my way back home, I think of my sister who died young. I always think of her when I turn around, and to know that I think of her every day is very important to me. When I get close to my house, I say the Lord’s Prayer to myself, feed my chickens and have breakfast with my wife.”

You know, starting the morning off with prayer is most certainly the way each believer should tackle the day ahead. And whether it's the Lord's Prayer or a simple one-on-one chat with God, our Father wants us to use this time to let it go... to let go of all our problems, all our cares, all our doubts and all of our frustrations. He wants to talk with us and remind us that we may "take heart" and have peace in him no matter what trials or sorrows we might be facing because he has "overcome the world." 

I don't know about you but that is one morning meeting I too would not want to miss. So no matter how or where you choose to pray, make taking your cares to the Lord a priority so he can help you let it go. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that we can come to you with everything that causes us worry, sadness and anxiety. Help us to make this our first priority that we might let it go. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!! 

Cast my cares - Finding Favour
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKuAMmTqUbs

http://www.mdislander.com/maine-news/runner-hits-bricks-every-day-41-years

His discipline

"No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." Hebrews 12:11

"Oh no!" I thought as I saw her bound towards me at top speed, full of energy and excitement to see someone running by the farm house she called home. And as much as I knew how I would enjoy the companionship of this sweet border collie on my morning run, I also knew what happened the last time she followed and went where she wasn't supposed to-she followed me home, nearly getting hit by a car on the way, and I had to load her up and bring her back where she belonged. So I was very relieved when just moments later, her 'parent' pulled alongside and she reluctantly allowed herself to be picked up and driven back home where she would be safe. 

You know, this sweet puppy reminded me that I am no different. I go down paths or do things that look exciting and fun, oblivious to the dangers of stepping away from my 'parent', the Father. If we're honest, we would all admit to doing it. But thankfully, God doesn't leave us there. He disciplines us, picks us up and brings us back to where we belong. Is that always pleasant? Most definitely not. The Bible tells us that, "no discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful." But you can bet that it's always worth it because, "it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." 

So you see, while it's never enjoyable to be disciplined and corrected by God, it is necessary for us and is a sign that He loves us very much. After all, a loving 'parent' does what's best for their children right? And who loves his child more-the father who allows his children to continue doing what will cause them harm? Or the one who loves them enough to train them to do right by any means necessary? I can assure you that God is the latter. He truly does love us. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would correct us when we do wrong. And although this correction will hurt, help us to accept it gratefully knowing that it is for our good and will only lead to us growing closer to you. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Cry in my heart - Stanfield
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=POMFYx9CR8g

Walk with Him

"This is the account of Noah and his family. Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God." Genesis 6:9

Maria Michta-Coffey is a self-proclaimed and award-winning speed walker. She is so speedy, in fact, that she can walk 20 kilometers faster than most people can run the distance, holding the record at 1:30:49 (an average of 7:18 per mile). And if you're wondering how a person would train to do this, Runners World says, "Just like runners run during training, race walkers walk in training. They do speed workouts, easy walks, and long walks, just like runners prepare for long distances. Michta-Coffey race walks seven days per week and twice a week has an additional shake-out session, which she often runs instead of walks." So you see, the key to being a successful speed walker is to train every day.

And the same is true to the success of our walk with God. Noah knew that and practiced it so consistently, deliberately and devoutly that he was described as, "a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time.." who "walked faithfully with God." But what does it mean to walk faithfully? Imagine that you and your best friend are walking together down a peaceful trail. You stay close to one another as you talk, laugh, listen and share your hearts. And you enjoy this relationship and camaraderie so much that you yearn and make time for it each and every day... never satisfied to walk any other way or with anyone else. This is what it means my friend!

So today, would you say that you are walking faithfully with God? Is He your greatest desire? And do you long to be with Him over anything else? Noah did and was rewarded with a purposeful life and eternal salvation... the same thing God has promised to every believer who chooses to walk "faithfully" by his side.

Heavenly Father,  thank you for your Word that helps us to walk with you. The pages are so alive with your Presence. May we read them daily that we might forever faithfully walk with you knowing you and your will for our lives. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Meet with me - Paul Baloche
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFgox2owHEM

http://www.runnersworld.com/world-championships/race-walking-101-two-time-olympian-schools-us-on-her-misunderstood-event

Great gain

"But godliness with contentment is great gain." 1 Timothy 6:6

CNET, a news website dedicated to technology, recently reported that the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex may have avoided running just as much as you do, but the dinosaur had a better excuse. Researchers from the University of Manchester used high-performance technology to analyze the gait and biomechanics of the T. Rex and came to the conclusion that the dinosaur's legs would probably have broken under its enormous size and weight, therefore making the dinosaur unable to run at all. So in the words of one reader, "Turns out the T.Rex wasn’t quite the monster we thought it was and couldn’t sprint due to its massive weight. So basically everything is a lie."

You know, most all of us were taught that the T.Rex was quite the runner and able to catch its prey within seconds. To find out it's really a lie is quite shocking isn't it? What's even more shocking is the myth many Christians were taught that God wants us to be happy when he really wants us to be content. You see, happiness is fleeting and based on the circumstances that surround us or some person that we might look to to provide it-all of which can change in an instant. That is why Timothy wrote, "godliness with contentment is great gain." This attitude and state of the heart says, "I am satisfied with what I have Lord. I am grateful for you and trust your plan for my life. I am in need of nothing that you cannot provide. You are truly all I need"

To put that into perspective, consider that great gain means a substantial increase in wealth or resources. That means the closer we walk with the Lord, the more remarkable is the joy, or richness, we will experience from it. Joy that is based on our relationship with Jesus Christ who is unchanging-the same yesterday, today and forever. You can look it up now or a million years from now, my friend, and find that it's no lie. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that clearly states that you have always been, are, and always will be the King of the world. Knowing this and looking at how the world changes on a daily basis, help us to look to you as our source of joy, happiness and contentment and to follow you with our whole hearts that we might experience for ourselves this "great gain." It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Jesus You're all I need - Hillsong Worship
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4M3Mw-F2Wbc

https://www.cnet.com/news/t-rex-wasnt-a-runner-broken-legs-university-of-manchester/

No longer a slave

"We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin. For when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin." Romans 6:6,7

Runners World Magazine recently published an article titled, "37 Mistakes Runners Can't Stop Making". And nearing the bottom of the list, nestled between poorly timing our bathroom breaks and not sleeping enough, was reason number 34... being a slave to our training plan. And the problem with sticking to a prescribed running regimen at the expense of everything else? Because anytime we let a habit or regimen control our lives, that habit soon becomes a problem-the routine becomes our master and we are controlled by it.

And while some runners might indeed be a slave to their training plans, many others are held captive by addictions such as binge eating, anorexia, alcohol, drugs, shopping, sex, pride or a host of other things. But the great thing is they (and we) don't have to stay that way, a prisoner to whatever destructive habit or pattern that we struggle with. The Bible tells us so saying, "when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin."

So why do so many of us continue in sin knowing that we are free then? Pastor Mark Altrogge says it this way, "Imagine a slave in the days of Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. As he leaves his old life walking away from the plantation where he was a slave, his master sees him and yells, “Get back here!” At first, the former slave feels all the old fears come rushing in. His first instinct is, “I have to do what he says.” Then he remembers, “Wait a minute! I’m no longer a slave! I don’t have to do what you say." So, today, let us too say, "I'm no longer a slave!" knowing and believing that those "who died with Christ" are no longer "slaves to sin." 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that clearly tells us that we have been set free from the chains of addiction if we would only choose to die to you each and every day. We ask that you give us the strength to do this very thing. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Break every chain - Jesus Culture

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfB3MsFHmDg

http://www.runnersworld.com/injury-prevention/37-mistakes-runners-cant-stop-making/slide/5

Meditate on them

"I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word." Psalm 119:15,16

Newsmax Health reported yesterday that women who run for only 60 seconds a day have better bone health than those who run less than a minute. Scientists from the U.K.'s University of Exeter and the University of Leicester went on to say that, "Women who on average did 60-120 seconds of high-intensity, weight-bearing activity per day had 4 percent better bone health than those who did less than a minute. Bone health was 6 percent better in those who exercised for more than two minutes a day." So I guess you could say that a little bit goes a long way right?

And while engaging in short spurts of activity every day might help improve our physical or bone health, the same cannot be said of our spiritual health. The Psalmist knew that when he wrote, "I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways... I will not neglect your word." You see, the Psalmist knew that the reading of God's Word was not something to be rushed through-which is why he urged his readers to "meditate", or give serious thought, time and study to it each and every day-and to never "neglect", or give little attention or respect to, the study of his decrees. 

Dwight L. Moody said it this way, "Merely reading the Bible is no use at all without we study it thoroughly, and hunt it through, as it were, for some great truth.” So take the extra time today, and everyday, to truly "meditate" on the Word. I promise it will improve your spiritual health. 

Heavenly Father, we thank you for your Word that is both refreshing and uplifting to our souls. Help us to delight in it so much that we would never neglect it for any reason, for we know it is the key to our spiritual health. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Your words - Third Day
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9zaaiFp4RSM

http://www.newsmax.com/Health/Health-News/running-minute-bone-health/2017/07/18/id/802324/

Do it for His glory

"So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." 1 Corinthians 10:31

Vicki Classen, 62, completed her 100th marathon Saturday at the Lakefair Marathon in Olympia, Washington. Before the race, she said that every finish line provides a sense of accomplishment but this one was to be the end of an emotional, long-distance journey. You see, she was finishing something that she and her husband, Gary, started together in the early 1980's when he decided, after running just one marathon, to run 100 of them. Vicki quickly joined him for the second one and never looked back, running by his side at each race. But, when he died in 2012 after only having completed 72 marathons, Vicki had a reason to keep running-she wanted to finish what they started, the goal that he had given himself. 

You know, there are thousands of reasons people choose to run a 26.2 mile race every year. It might be to honor a loved one (as was the case with Vicki), to get in shape or to prove something to oneself. And while these are certainly honorable justifications for doing so, the Bible tells us that our main reason for doing anything should be, "for the glory of God." That means, before you and I make a decision to "eat or drink" or "whatever" else you and I may do, we need to ask ourselves, "Does this action bring glory to God?" You see, honoring God should be our motive for everything that we do. 

So, in our quest to give God the glory He alone is due, may that question be the guiding principle for our actions. Because, in the words of Lecrae, "You and I live to manifest the glory of God." 

Heavenly Father, thank you for being such an amazing God whose glory could never be exaggerated. You are the Maker, Sustainer and the Provider of all good things. And for that, deserving of all honor, praise and glory. May we seek to always put you first in all we say and do. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Glory to God forever - Fee

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h64opCwLZCw

http://www.kgw.com/entertainment/television/programs/portland-today/mom-running-100-marathons-with-some-special-support-from-her-daughter/454700229

Spiritually smug

"So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall!" 1 Corinthians 10:12

Elian Larregina seemed destined to win the under-18 championships in Nairobi last week. At the sound of the gun, he immediately launched to the front of the pack in the 400-meter quarterfinal race and remained there until the final stretch. But to everyone's surprise, Elian stumbled at the 399 meter mark, just one meter short of success, and fell. Larregina eventually picked himself up but finished the race last and, at 17-years-old, dashed any dream he had of placing in the under-18 event.

While we may never know why this young runner stumbled, I think we would all agree that it was even more of a tragedy that he did so with the finish line in plain sight. Sadly, though, this is the exact thing that happens to many Christians. You see, the moment a person deems themselves to be running so well that they are surely "standing firm" and in no danger of falling, they can become 'spiritually smug'. And this prideful self-assurance that no sin could ever possibly cause them to stumble is the reckless attitude that leads them into doing that very thing. 

So, today, "if you think you are standing firm" and so spiritually strong that you can be around or viewing sin without partaking in it, "be careful" my friend. Even the best of Christians have taken a fall while doing so... even with the finish line in clear sight. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that clearly tells us that pride in our spiritual walk always opens us up to spiritual falls. Help us to stay so humbled and focused on you and your precepts that we run the race well our whole lives until we cross that finish line into eternity. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Kutless - Pride away
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=slmllMIDPd8

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/early-lead/wp/2017/07/12/runner-loses-race-after-stumbling-at-399-meters-of-his-400-meter-heat/?utm_term=.2a86c2a0b508

You are there

"Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there." Psalm 139:7,8

While sitting in the exam room yesterday, I could feel my anxiety rising as the doctor calmly described the procedure he was going to perform to extract a piece of tissue for a biopsy. It seems years of running and being in the sun without sunscreen had finally caught up with me and I was now reaping the consequences. So, as I laid there in silence while he numbed my cheek and prepared to take a portion of the damaged skin, I did what I always do when I need to be reminded that I am not alone-I silently began singing Psalm 139, "You have searched me and know me...familiar with all my ways..."

And this Psalm that undoubtedly brought so much comfort to it's writer, David, immediately began to calm and comfort me. You see, it reminded me that there's absolutely nowhere I can go that his Spirit won't go too and nowhere I can flee that his presence won't follow. And it's a promise that God was in that room with me and I was not alone. And you know what else? Those written words are a reminder to us all that God is always there no matter where we are. In fact, the Psalmist was so sure of it that he wrote, "If I go up to the heavens you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there." 

Perhaps you need that same reassurance today too? That God is there? Then I would pray that you would meditate on the words of the psalmist, "you are there" until you realize that He truly is there. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that reminds us that you truly love us. In spite of our sin, in spite of our actions, you love us! And you love us so much that you have promised to always be there no matter where we might travel or what trials we might encounter. Thank you for the peace that knowledge brings and thank you for you the comfort your Presence gives us. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Mercy Me - You are there

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XrYILn0KtXA

Not our own

"Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies." 1 Corinthians 6:19,20

In a new study published this week from RunRepeat.com, a team of experts analyzed how Americans’ health influenced their running performance and found that American runners are getting slower in all distances from the 5k to the marathon. The team perused data from more than 24 million race results from 1996 to 2016 and found that they were the slowest in history-and their theory based on these results, and dispelling other possible answers, was this... "it is the decline in health among Americans." 

Considering that the NIH reports that 68.8% of adults are considered to be overweight or obese, these findings are not surprising are they? But the Bible makes it perfectly clear that, since we are "temples of the Holy Spirit" and have Christ living in us, we are expected to take good care of ourselves. Scripture also makes it very clear that, since our bodies are not our own, you and I are merely caretakers of them-trusted to be good stewards of that which we were entrusted with. So you see, to "honor God" with our bodies means treating them as a temple where the Holy Spirit resides. 

So I ask you this question. If you saw someone vandalizing or damaging a temple built to "honor God", would you consider that a crime? Of course you would. But that's the very thing we do to our bodies when we fail to take care of them by eating right, resting well and keeping our stress levels down. So let us treat these "temples" with the respect they are due that we might "honor God" with our bodies as we are called to do. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that serves as a reminder that we are merely stewards of these bodies we have been given. And as any good steward, we are called to take care of what we have been given. Help us to grasp that idea that we might treat our bodies as they were intended to be treated. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

I give you my heart - Hillsong

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVEvD30e5yc

http://running.competitor.com/2017/07/news/u-s-runners-getting-slower-health-may-blame_165943

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-statistics/overweight-obesity

Run for your life

"But you, Timothy, are a man of God; so run from all these evil things. Pursue righteousness and a godly life, along with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness." 1 Timothy 6:11

Moninda Marube, a professional runner originally from Kenya but now living in Auburn, Maine, left his house early last week for an 18 mile training run. This "long run" quickly turned into a "speedwork session" though, when six miles in he spotted two black bears at the same time they spotted him. "I had to make a quick decision, climb this tree or run back," Marube said. Quickly deciding the best thing to do was run, he turned back (just as the bears began to chase after him) to a vacant house he had passed earlier. Thankfully, he made it before the bears caught up and stayed inside until they were gone.

You know, Moninda's quick thinking and decision to immediately turn and run in the face of danger most likely saved his life. And this same course of action is exactly what Paul advised Timothy to do in the face of danger, or when confronted with sin, saying, "run from all these evil things." And when Paul said "run", you can be sure that he didn't mean at a casual pace but as quickly as Timothy could... as if he was being chased by bears. This same advice goes for you and me too. In the face of sin or temptation, we are to "run" as if our lives depended on it. Because, spiritually speaking, they just might.

So today if you're facing temptation or in danger of sinning, make a 'quick decision' to 'run back', as if your life depended on it, to Jesus and the pursuit of "righteousness and a godly life, along with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness." You'll be forever grateful that you did. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that serves as a reminder that sin can kill us spiritually and that we are to run as fast as we can in the opposite direction from it. So today, may we run from any sin in our lives and pursue a godly life instead. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Gungor - We will run to you

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VsGavd1y_Xg

http://running.competitor.com/2017/07/news/kenyan-runner-bears-maine_165942

He provides

"Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you—you of little faith." Luke 12:27,28

While deep in prayer and nearing the end of my early morning run before church Sunday, my eyes became transfixed on a beautiful patch of wildflowers. The black-eyed-susans, with their vibrant yellow leaves and rich brown centers, were just too pretty to pass up-so I picked a handful of them along with a handful of daisies and ran home to present them to my daughter. As she smiled and we placed them in water, she and I took the time to examine them closer and agreed that God indeed makes beautiful things. 

Have you ever taken the time to examine the intricacies of a simple wildflower? Each one is unique in it's beauty and yet the Bible tells us that, "not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these." It was exactly the reminder I needed that God is the ultimate Provider. You see, although these flowers "do not labor or spin", they have everything they need to grow.  And if that is how he provides for "the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire," there was no need to worry that he would provide the things that I need too. 

Perhaps you needed that reminder today as well? Maybe you're anxious over a job situation (as I was)? Stressing over a family matter? Or maybe even a recent diagnosis? Whatever the cause of your restlessness may be, my friend, why don't you pick a few flowers, take the time to truly examine them, and then meditate on God's promise to provide what he already knows you need?

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that is such a clear reminder that you know exactly the things we need and that you will provide for each one of those needs. Thank you for the unexplainable peace that knowing you will always provide brings. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Your promises - Elevation Worship

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ETzlFE5Q98k

Roll the dice

"We may throw the dice, but the LORD determines how they fall." Proverbs 16:33 NLT

Runners World Magazine recently asked its readers, "What are your race day rituals or superstitions?" And in response to that question, runners from around the world chimed in listing many of the things they do in hopes of nailing that personal record. One runner keeps the pins from races he runs well and uses them again and again while another runner says that if he yawns before a race, it's going to be a PR day. And yet another runner claims that tapping each mile marker as she passes has magical powers. But regardless of what these runners claim brings them 'luck', you can be sure that superstitions are merely, as its' definition states, "a widely held but unjustified belief in supernatural causation leading to certain consequences of an action or event."

In other words, there is no such thing as 'luck' and no justification for believing so. Especially since the Bible tells us time and again that God is sovereign in control over the earth and everything in it-therefore proving that nothing, and I mean nothing, occurs simply by chance. Solomon understood that when he wrote, "We may throw the dice, but the Lord determines how they fall." You see, in Solomon's day, many decisions were made and God's will deciphered by casting lots, or throwing some type of object like "the dice". But even then, Solomon knew, how the objects landed was never by mere coincidence or luck but by God's divine providence alone. 

Isn't it great to know that nothing is left to chance? That God was, is and always will be in control no matter how "the dice" might land? And while you may still choose to keep a few of your running rituals, I hope you will put your faith in Christ and not in a roll of "the dice" to get you to the finish line. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the reminder that nothing in this world happens by chance and that You are the Creator and Sustainer of all things and in complete control over everything in this world. Thank you for that knowledge that should bring comfort to all believers. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Our God is in control - Twila Paris

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wN6v6whg2lk

Look for opportunities

"Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone--especially to those in the family of faith." Galatians 6:10

Midway through my early morning run yesterday, it began to rain so hard that run-offs and puddles quickly formed. "This must be my lucky day, " I thought to myself (since I love running in the rain) as I smiled and pressed on, traipsing across our local grocery store parking lot. And that's when I saw the car approach. A kind shopper who had left the store had spotted me running in these less than ideal conditions and turned around to see if I needed a ride. Literally soaked from head to toe, I declined her most gracious offer as I appreciatively thanked her for her willingness to help. After all, I thought, how many people would have been willing to come to the aid of a total stranger? Especially one who would most certainly have wreaked havoc on their car interior? 

You know when it comes to helping others, Paul reminds us that, as believers, "whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone." And that opportunities are everywhere, if we will just pay attention, is something I came to realize even more as I continued on my run. Passing by the elementary school with the rain still pouring down, I saw that the safety officer had left his car window down. Knowing that his seat would be drenched, I detoured to the front of the building and informed the janitor on duty who assured me that the officer would be notified. That act may have been small but it was still an opportunity to "do good" to someone, right? And no opportunity to "do good" should ever be overlooked. 

Can you imagine if each one of us were to look for opportunities to do good every day? Acts of kindness, whether big or small, would surely add up and spur others on to do the same. And what a difference that could make. So today, look for an opportunity to " do good" and then, like Nike says, just do it. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the reminder today that there are so many opportunities to do good to others. Help us to realize that our actions have more power to bring people to Christ than our words ever will that we might never fail to seize the chance to help someone else, especially our brothers and sisters in Christ. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

With every act of love - Jason Gray

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4bB7BUxBbY

I am clean

"Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt. I said to myself, "I will confess my rebellion to the LORD." And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone." Psalm 32:5

Yesterday morning I had the pleasure of participating in a Color Run 5k with my daughter and some dear friends. Designed to be 'fun for the whole family', we took our time walking through the paint stations to ensure we had the most 'fun' we could possibly have - meaning we really wanted to get dirty. And that's exactly what we got. Covered in paint from head to toe, we were soiled, spotted and stained by the end of the race. Thankfully we didn't have to stay that way for long, though, since we all went straight home to wash up. 

And you know, just as a shower cleansed each one of us from the stains of the morning, God has promised to cleanse each one of us from the stains of the sin in our lives (and the guilt that accompanies it)... if we would only confess and believe. David knew that when he wrote, "Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt. I said to myself, "I will confess my rebellion to the LORD." And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone." And you forgave me? Oh what joy that knowledge must have brought to David - so much that he didn't just say it but exclaimed it!

Wouldn't you like to have that same joy today too? That unbridled happiness that comes from knowing that you are truly forgiven and no longer have to live with regret and shame? Today can be the day that you claim that my friend! Simply do as David did... stop hiding and admit your transgressions that he might forgive you too. You'll be so glad you did. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the grace, love and mercy that you bestow upon even the worst of sinners. Help us to confess any sin that might be keeping us unclean that we might declare with confidence and joy that today, you forgave me! It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Clean - Natalie Grant

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ulf4PXuNV3w

Independence Day

"For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery." Galatians 5:1

With Independence Day upon us, you might be noticing the many flags on display as you head out for your morning run. And if you've chosen, like many other runners, to participate in a fourth of July race, you might even see runners wearing red, white and blue while carrying it. You could safely say then that most Americans are still pretty proud of that 'ole flag'. And with good reason- you see, 'Old Glory' represents the day our country's founders declared independence from Great Britain. Did you know, though, that each part of the flag stands for something? The 50 stars stand for the 50 states and the 13 stripes stand for the 13 British colonies which declared their independence on July 4, 1776. The colors also stand for something. The white vertical stripes signify purity and innocence, the red hardiness and valour and the blue signify vigilance, perseverance and justice.

Did you know that there is another flag that should be displayed with pride too? It's the Christian flag which represents the day we were granted the greatest freedom of all... deliverance from the power of sin. The shade of red on the cross symbolizes the blood that Jesus shed on Calvary. The blue canton represents the waters of baptism as well as the faithfulness of Jesus, and the white represents Jesus' purity. Regardless of their differences in appearance though, both of these flags are symbols of what we stand for, the principles by which this country was formed, and that we are connected to one another as Americans and Christians.

John Adams, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, in a letter to his wife regarding this special day wrote, "It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forevermore.” May we, as Americans then, join together this holiday to commemorate the day of deliverance by God Almighty. We have so much to celebrate!

Heavenly Father, thank you for setting us free from the yoke of slavery and the bonds of tyranny. My solemn prayer is that this country would raise the white flag of surrender and celebrate our freedom every day with solemn acts of devotion to you, the God Almighty. May we once again be known as"one nation, under God" as we wave our white flags in total surrender. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

White Flag - Chris Tomlin
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lk8ue3qN0hg

Never forget

"Let all that I am praise the LORD; may I never forget the good things he does for me." Psalm 103:2

"Every medal tells a story. Every medal is wrapped in sentiment". Those were the thoughts expressed to describe the sadness Andrea Able, a 33-year-old resident of San Diego’s Pacific Beach neighborhood, felt when the bin containing more than 100 of her running and triathlon medals was stolen last week. It seems, in the busyness of moving, she set down the rubber bin that contained them by her car to rush back upstairs to retrieve the bin's top, returning only moments later to find that the bin was gone. While several of the medals have been either found or replaced, Andrea is still missing more than 70 saying, "I know that these are "just things" but all of my races are done in memory of my dad so this is a crushing, crushing blow." 

You know, I can empathize with Andrea as I know that every medal indeed has a story to tell. In fact, I often refer to the medals I have been blessed to earn as individual testimonies - tangible things that tell a unique story of God's grace displayed in my life. With each and every one I behold, I can smile as I recall the "good things" he did during that specific time - things so good that I never want to "forget" them. You see, since I have never crossed a finish line without him, each medal is a testimony to his faithfulness and love for me. Through easy races and PRs, he was there giving me the strength to run well and through the difficult and downright impossible races, he was there too... giving me the strength to trust him and press on.  

So in the words of David, "Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me." I hope that you will choose to remember and reflect on the amazing things he has done for you today as well, and then join me in praise. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the many blessings you have provided to each of us. Help us to recall your goodness daily that we might be encouraged to keep running the race with endurance knowing that you will be by our side. May all that we are praise you as we tell others of the many good things you have done. You are worthy of all glory and honor. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

In Christ alone will I glory - Brian Littrell
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zfYZgxV3g4w

http://running.competitor.com/2017/06/news/rock-n-roll-marathon-series-replaces-stolen-race-medals_165748