Defying the odds

"Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for." Hebrews 11:1,2

"Skyline High runner defying the odds six months after horrific crash." Those were yesterday's East Idaho News' headlines describing Nick Kirby's return to running after the May 22 car crash that left two of his friends dead and changed his life forever. After the accident, which occurred on their school lunch break, Nick spent three weeks in a medically induced coma before going home six weeks later with a steel rod in his leg. Amazingly though, Nick was well enough to run in the Tiger Grizz cross country meet in September and has been running ever since. The metal rod will be removed from his leg next Spring and Nick will continue to run despite the hardships that come his way.

When it comes to defying the odds, Hebrews 11, commonly referred to as the Faith Hall of Fame, lists many of the saints of the Bible who accomplished things that looked impossible. And how did they do it? By faith. By faith, Noah built the ark and escaped the flood. By faith, Abraham obeyed and went to a foreign land and become the father of many nations. By faith, the walls of Jericho fell. And by faith, the people passed through the Red Sea and did not drown. So what is this faith "the ancients were commended for" that allowed them to defy the odds? It was the "confidence" or trust they had in God, that He would do what he said even though they could not see those promises materializing yet. This "assurance" is what allowed them to act bravely, completely trusting that God would be faithful to deliver them. 

Perhaps you're in a situation today where you feel the odds are stacked against you? If that's the case my friend, remember that the same God in whom the saints trusted is the same God that you and I can trust today-the very same God that has been "defying the odds" since before He spoke the world into being. And with Him, all things are possible. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that gives us so much hope by telling us who you are and how faithful you are. Thank you for the countless stories of those saints that were able to do the impossible in the face of insurmountable odds because they placed their trust in you. May we have that same faith today that we too might do extraordinary things in your Name. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Warrior - Hannah Kerr

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

https://www.eastidahonews.com/2017/11/skyline-high-runner-defying-odds-six-months-horrific-crash/

Sort of a follower

"And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple." Luke 14:27

On November 12, runners of all ages paid $20 to participate in the first-ever "New York Sorta Marathon." And it was sort of a marathon because it came with everything you'd expect from a 26.2 mile race-a fancy start and finish line, medical support, bibs, medals, people holding up inspirational signs, space blankets, bananas and gatorade-except it was only .2 mile long... 26 miles short of a real marathon distance. James Coker, the third-place finisher, jokingly said that sharing his achievement with friends via social media made the effort he put into the race worth it. Describing that effort and the training it took to complete this monumental feat, Coker said, "I try to run once a month. It’s important to have a regular regimen —100, 200, 300 feet at a time. Baby steps, you can’t just jump right in with serious distance racing.”

And as funny as this is, it's proof that, while many people would love say they have completed a marathon, most people won't ever do it because it’s just too hard. Unfortunately, the same can be said of many self-professed Christians. They want to be known as followers of Christ but only "sort of" follow because being sold out is just too hard. You see, when Jesus said, "whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple," he was warning the crowd (and us) that following him would not be easy. It would require total, complete and absolute devotion and submission to Him-maybe even to the point of death. 

So it's no wonder that Jesus would urge us to consider the cost of being a disciple before making a commitment is it? Because we can't just "sort of " follow Christ, we are either all in or all out. Can you say that you are all in and completely sold out to Jesus today?

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would promise to be with us in this life if we would submit our lives to you. And although you clearly warn us that it won't be easy to be your disciple, you do guarantee that it will be worth it. May we be totally sold out to you Lord no matter how hard it is or may ever become. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Sold out - Hawk Nelson

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

https://www.brooklynpaper.com/stories/40/46/dtg-bb-sorta-marathon-in-williamsburg-2017-11-17-bk.html

Hate evil

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

Like many runners (including me), Lori Adams suffers from Raynaud's Syndrome, a condition in which the small blood vessels constrict and reduce blood flow to the extremities. Because of this, she says, she has always hated running in the winter. "When it’s cold, my fingers and toes go numb and become a ghostly shade of white then blue, until the circulation returns." Thankfully, she said, all that changed when she found the right mittens a few years ago-and no longer has a feeling of hatred towards venturing out in the coldest season of the year. 

And you know, while the proper clothing can certainly help us to overcome our "hate" of being out in the elements, there's one thing the Bible tells us that we should never stop hating-and that's evil, or anything that contradicts the holy nature of God and his Word, no matter how minor the offense may seem or how socially acceptable it may have become. You see, if you and I truly "love the Lord", we will love what He loves and despise what He despises, meaning we will "hate evil" in any and every form. And this emotion of “hate” is not merely disliking those things that God has declared as morally wrong, but detesting them to the point of finding them intolerable.  

So what would you say your attitude is toward sin today? Would you say you believe some things that used to be considered wrong are okay now because times have changed? Well let me remind you my friend, while the world may have changed, God's commandments have not. So may we recognize and "hate evil" in any form, that we might shine brightly in a dark world and lead others to Christ. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that clearly tells us what is right and wrong. May we cling closely to those tenets that we might not compromise our stance on sin in any way. Though we might be called intolerant, bigoted and judgmental by the world, may we continue to love others without wavering from the Word. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Socially Acceptable - DC Talk

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

https://www.runnersworld.com/man-i-just-love-this/hxt-marathon-mittens-running-cold-weather

Change of direction

"After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them." Acts 16:10

Jake Sitler, a 28-year-old athlete from York County, Pa., says he went from being on the track team at Shippensburg University to being a professional cyclist after he sustained an injury to his hip that left him unable to run. "I wasn't quite ready to accept that I was injured...I kept thinking `I can still come back and run the final end of our season`and my coach just sat me down and said, hey man, we did everything we could. He was like...'you know...it's just time to move onto the next stage of your life. So I started mountain biking." And because of his decision to “move on” in a new direction, Sitler now holds a professional contract for a different style of cycling and spends his days training for major events (like the Olympics). 

You know, whether we like it or not, things will happen to us in life that will uproot our plans and cause us to change direction. The apostle Paul experienced that when he and his companions were kept by the Holy Spirit from visiting Asia and then Bithynia (v.6-9). And while they may have wondered why their plans had been thwarted twice, God soon revealed the direction He would have them take instead. And so they "got ready at once to leave for Macedonia.. to preach the gospel to them." And Paul’s decision to heed the call, according to some historians, was credited with the spread of Christianity into Europe and the Western world.

You know, when God is working to lead us in a new direction, He will use many ways to get our attention. It may be through the promptings of a friend, the voice of the Holy Spirit or a disruption in our lives. But when this happens, you can be sure of one thing... what God is leading you to will always be better than anything you ever left behind. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would care to guide us in the direction that is best for our lives. Help us to trust your plan especially when we don't understand it and to follow you no matter how it looks. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

I will follow - Chris Tomlin

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

http://fox43.com/2017/11/26/york-county-runner-turns-to-professional-cycling-after-injury/

Set a goal

"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen." 2 Peter 3:18

Although Orville Rogers of Dallas, TX won't officially turn 100 until Tuesday, his birthday celebration started early Saturday morning when, hours before the “official” party was scheduled to begin, he and four generations of his family combined to run 100 miles-with Rogers running the last mile. You see, Orville has been a runner for a very long time (with records and awards to prove it) and said that, with running and with life, it's very important to set goals and keep growing. Which is why, after completing his lifetime goal of turning 100 Tuesday, he will work towards his next one-competing in the National Indoor Track Meet in March saying,"I can still run 100-meters in 33 seconds. I've been greatly blessed and I'm very grateful." 

If goal setting is, by definition, deciding what we want to accomplish and then devising a plan to achieve it, we would all do well to continue setting goals throughout our lifetime, wouldn't we? After all, just because we get older doesn't mean we should stop growing right? Peter knew this was true, especially in our spiritual lives if we were to be able to continue to refute false teachers and stand for the truth. Which is why he urged believers to make it their ambition to "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." And he knew that doing this-getting to know God and his Word better-would be a lifetime process where there would always be room to grow and mature in the faith, no matter how long a person had been a follower. 

So would you say that growing closer to the Lord is a goal you have been working towards every day for a while? Or a goal that you need to set? Thankfully, if you said yes to the latter, today can be the day you devise a plan to achieve that closeness and growth through prayer and Bible study. You'll be so glad that you did. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the Bible that allows us to draw closer to you. As believers, may our greatest desire to be to seek you every day within It's pages and through daily prayer time. Help us to devise a plan to be deliberate and consistent in our goal of growing in the grace and knowledge of You that we might stand for Truth in a world that will always challenge our faith. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

To know you - Casting Crowns

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4xp6ygQoAo

https://sportsday.dallasnews.com/other-sports/running/2017/11/25/celebrations-begun-dallas-world-champion-runner-orville-rogers-turns-100-tuesday

Do everything in love

"Do everything in love." 1 Corinthians 16:14

While many of us will be working to burn off those Thanksgiving meal calories by going for a run today or hitting the black Friday sales in search of the best deals on active wear, Ultra-runner Lisa Smith-Batchen will be embarking on a 300-mile journey to run from her home in Jackson Hole, WY, to the Huntsman Cancer Institute in Salt Lake City-hoping to arrive on November 28, the day she lost her mother to cancer last year. She said, “This journey is about all of us coming together in the name of love... Each mile will be dedicated to a loved one; each mile will be full of honor, dignity, grace and glory. This is my way. Crazy as it may seem to you, it is my way.”

And you know, when it comes to pursuing any goal, the Bible tells us that "our way", or the reason we do it, should be because of love. You see, people can be motivated by many things when they set goals-fame, pride and money, just to name a few. But, as believers, you and I are to "Do everything in love." That means every goal that we set for ourselves and everything that we do for others should be motivated either by our love for Jesus Christ and bringing Him glory or our love for people. 

So today, what would you say motivates you? If it's not love, then it's all in vain my friend. Because when it comes down to it, God is more interested in why we do what we do than what we do-no matter how epic the feat was. 

Heavenly Father, thank you sending your Son to be the perfect example of what it means to do everything in love. Help us to love You and others in the same way Jesus did and to pursue only those goals that will bring You glory. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Banner of love - Luminate

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPm_dbg1_Zs

https://buckrail.com/ultra-runner-gives-thanks-runs-cancer-tomorrow/

Always thankful

"always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:20

While many runners will begin their holiday morning by competing in local turkey trots, one man from California, Mike Dosik, will be doing it with a huge smile on his face. You see, last year Mike, a 49-year-old married father of two, suffered a near fatal heart attack and collapsed right before the finish line of San Francisco's Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot. Which is why he is especially grateful to be participating this year saying, "It’s been a journey for me — mentally and physically — to recover from what happened. It was not something I would have ever expected. But I live with a lot more gratitude and a lot more perspective than I did before.”

You know, living our lives in appreciation for each day is something we all should be doing since there are obviously no guarantees that we will see tomorrow. So while it is still today, and the official day to express our thankfulness, let us make a vow to live with a deeper and different perspective on life-approaching each new day with more gratitude and indebtedness to our Creator for our many undeserved blessings-acknowledging that every new sunrise is a gift and "always giving thanks to God the Father for everything." 

And so this holiday season, won’t you take the time to count your blessings? And then take the time to really thank the Lord for each one of them? I think you’ll find, by doing so, that you have even more reasons to celebrate Thanksgiving than you ever realized. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us, providing for us and for giving us so many things that we don't deserve. Help us to remember that EVERY good thing that we have, both big and small, comes from you... our homes, our health, the food on our table, the people around it and the air in our lungs. Help us to be more grateful in every area of our lives Lord and to always thank you the many blessings we have. Blessings that, if we're honest, are too many to count. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Count them all - JJ Weeks

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FegDv7M5fHI

http://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2017/11/21/turkey-trot-runner-who-collapsed-at-finish-line-is-up-and-running-again/

Saving grace

"For God saved us and called us to live a holy life. He did this, not because we deserved it, but because that was his plan from before the beginning of time--to show us his grace through Christ Jesus." 2 Timothy 1:9 NLT

In an article titled "Running to recovery: How exercise impacts mental health", Amy De Seyn

described how running improved her outlook on life-something science has backed up. Research found people saw a significant difference in mental health when exercising anywhere from 2.5 to 7.5 hours a week.  In her teen years, Amy says she used running as a way to cope with her volatile home life. But when an injury during her freshman year of college kept her from running, Amy fell into a deep depression and began drinking. Thankfully though, she says she eventually found the happiness she longed for through therapy and a return to running saying, "I found myself always coming back to running. Like that has always been my saving grace."

And you know, while the world would use the term "saving grace" to refer to a redeeming quality or characteristic, the term means so much more. You see, grace is the unmerited favor of God and the very thing that saved us while we were still sinners. Easier stated, grace is what God extends to us when He gives us what we don't deserve... forgiveness and eternal life. And this “saving grace” is nothing that you and I earned or could ever earn. It was God’s gift to us when we chose to believe in his son, Jesus Christ, "because that was his plan from before the beginning of time."

So while running can most certainly improve our mood, the knowledge that "God saved us and called us to a holy life... to show us his grace" should really have us smiling. Won't you tell someone today about this "saving grace?" It might just be the very thing they need to improve their outlook on life and find the happiness they have been longing for.

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that gives us such reassurance of your love for us. Help us to be bold in sharing how your grace saves with others that they too might have a renewed hope and a reason for smiling today. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Call it grace - Unspoken
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AAMU68NTVQw

http://www.wcpo.com/news/national/running-to-recovery-how-exercise-impacts-mental-health

Look for ways

"Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works." Hebrews 10:24

Ten months ago, Colin McCourt, who had once been an internationally competitive middle distance runner, weighed 207 pounds and was out of shape. But after being issued a challenge by 17 of his old running buddies that he couldn't run a sub-16 minute 5k within a year, McCourt, now 32, got busy training and completed a 5k last weekend in 15:38 to win the bet. And not only did he not have to get the name of each of his friends tattooed somewhere on his body (part of the bet), he walked away $2800 richer (his counter-wager). Of his friends’ crazy efforts to motivate him back to a healthier lifestyle, he said, "It's done well smashed. I can't believe it.. it has been the most craziest mental journey ever. Thank you. You guys have changed my life." 

You know, losing the motivation to stay in shape is an easy thing to do in our fast-paced world. Especially if you don't have friends to encourage you to do otherwise. But the effects of losing the desire to exercise pales in comparison to what happens when you and I lose our enthusiasm to focus on the Word and serve Christ as we should. Which is why Paul urged believers to "think of ways" to keep that from happening-ways to continuously "motivate one another to acts of love and good works." 

So if you have a brother or sister that has lost their enthusiasm and passion for God today, won't you help them gain that excitement back? Won’t you look for ways to encourage, strengthen and motivate them to love others and serve the way they once did? They will most surely thank you for it later because it will not only change their lives, but the lives of those around them.  

Heavenly Father, thank you for those people that never “wait” for an opportunity to encourage others but are always “looking” for ways to uplift and stimulate them. May we be those people who constantly search for ways to strengthen our individual brothers and sisters that the church as a whole might become stronger. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

We are the dreamers - Jeremy West

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rkpqmsR9xZo

https://www.runnersworld.com/newswire/wanna-bet-running-and-wagering-have-a-long-history-and-still-bring-out-the-best-in-us

Keep the joy

"For God is the King of all the earth; sing to him a psalm of praise. God reigns over the nations; God is seated on his holy throne." Psalm 47:7,8

"There ain't nothin gonna steal my joy," were the lyrics we were singing along to as we (my daughter and her two friends) pulled out of the driveway at 5:30 a.m. on Saturday morning headed to the Honoring our Heroes Marathon in Rolla, MO. It was so easy, I thought, to sing that song amidst the unseasonably warm predawn temps of 69 degrees we awoke to. But, I wondered, would that still be the song on my lips and the attitude of my heart when the temperatures plummeted, the winds kicked up and the rain set in as the meteorologists predicted to happen later that day? 

But you know, I don't think even the weatherman could have been prepared for the rapid and brutal onslaught of cold, plummeting wind and precipitation that descended upon us runners midway through the race. And as a strong gust nearly blew my hat off (sending me sideways) and allowed the rain to blur my vision causing me to grimace, I reached back to tighten my cap strap and heard the words, "Mmmhmmm. Where's that joy now?" Laughing to myself, I smiled big, shook my head and said out loud the first words that came to mind, "Right here... because my God is still on the throne!" And with that reminder, the devil had nothing left to say. 

My friend, joy is a powerful thing. So powerful, in fact, that satan will try to steal it in any way he can from you... including whispering words of doubt and discouragement to you in the hardest of trials. But when those times come, and I assure you they will, remember this... God is King of all the earth, He reigns over the nations, and He is seated on his holy throne. In other words, remember that the war has already been won! And because of that, you too can sing, "There ain't nothin gonna steal my joy" and mean it no matter what storm you are facing. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the easy times when joy is easy to keep and thank you even more for the hard times when we learn that joy doesn't come from an easy life but from the knowledge that You are the King of Kings, seated on your holy throne, and nothing can ever change that. May we have joy in every circumstance then. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Old Church Choir - Zach Williams

https://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=YKYWZWNX

Forgive them

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

Ilana Galatan, 48, a runner and self-described bullying survivor, hated gym as a child saying, "I could not throw or catch a ball well. My classmates repeatedly bullied me in gym class, yelling at me for missing balls or not running quickly enough." For that reason, she says, she didn't start an exercise routine until the age of 42 when she was told she was prediabetic and close to being overweight. Since then though, Ilana has completed five marathons, including a sub-4 hour one that she's especially proud of. No longer prediabetic, she plans to run more 26.2 mile races but says being fit is what's most important to her.

You know, although the Bible doesn't specifically mention bullying, it does tell us that we are to be "kind to one another”- something a bully doesn’t do. But even though a bully’s actions may have hurt us deeply (sometimes for years afterward), we are called to be “forgiving” of them just as Jesus forgave us. And while this may be hard, you can be sure it will be worth it. You see forgiveness not only sets us free from the pain, but allows us to move past it to be those people God designed us to be.

And you know what else forgiveness does? It allows others (including the bullies) to see Christ in us. Knowing that most people hurt others because they themselves have been hurt, can you imagine how showing kindness to those who have brought us grief could change their lives? Oh my friend, there is power in forgiveness. Won't you give it today?

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us the Holy Spirit to dwell inside us which gives us all the power we need to forgive those who may have wronged us in the worst ways. Help us to be an example of your kindness to those hurting people who hurt others in response to the way they have been treated. May we, by showing your love, tenderheartedness and forgiveness help to break the cycle of hurt. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

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

http://womensrunning.competitor.com/2017/11/real-runners/gym-bullying-sub-4-marathoner_82821

The smile can hide it

"Even in laughter the heart may ache, and rejoicing may end in grief." Proverbs 14:13

While looking back at some of the finisher photos from last weekend's races, I noticed a pattern. Everyone was smiling, me included. Yet I knew that most of these smiles were hiding physical pain, mine surely was (after tripping on a root and crash landing somewhere along the 31 miles of grueling trail). And I personally knew the stories behind the smiling faces of many of the runners-one of which finished after tearing a muscle early on and another after falling several times throughout the day. But that's what we do when we're in pain right? Smile and pretend nothing is wrong?

Unfortunately, physical pain is not the only “ache” many people will try and hide with a smile. Robin Williams, a comedian who made a living out of smiling and making other people laugh but suffered from severe depression that ended in suicide, said, "All it takes is a beautiful fake smile to hide an injured soul and they will never notice how broken you really are." And you can be sure that there are many people, including believers, in our world today like Robin. In fact, Christian Life Resources says that depression affects nearly 10 percent of Americans ages 18 and over in a given year, or more than 19 million people. 

You know, given those statistics, there's a good chance that either you or someone you know or run with is suffering from sadness, depression or heartache today and using a smile or "laughter" to cover it up. And since we never know who that person might be, wouldn't it be wise to treat everyone with an extra bit of kindness? And to stop and truly listen to how a person answers when we ask them how they’re doing? I sure think so. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the reminder that so many people today suffer from depression. Help us to look beyond the smiles and laughter of our family and friends to see what is truly going on inside and be the listening ear they might need. Help us then to not discount the power depression has over someone and lead them to get help before it's too late. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Healing begins - Tenth Avenue North

https://youtu.be/OFVSMTVavhQ

http://www.christianliferesources.com/article/suicide-facts-and-statistics-114

The hardworking farmer

"The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops." 2 Timothy 2:6

In an interview published Monday by InStyle Magazine, Shalane Flanagan, Olympic medalist and the first American woman in 40 years to win the New York City Marathon, said, "My Olympic medal is a highlight of my career, but Sunday gave me the greatest sense of accomplishment because it took a lifetime of work to achieve. I ran my first marathon seven years ago and I had to go through a lot of heartaches and ups and downs over that time to finally get to this moment." Once again emphasizing that success doesn't come overnight, she went on to say, "There's a lot of instant gratification in this generation. And it's hard to see the big picture and have patience to dedicate yourself to something that's far off in the future cause you don't know when it will happen."

You know, the apostle Paul understood how important hard work and patience were too. And he knew that being a true disciple of Jesus Christ would require both qualities displayed throughout a lifetime of work. Which is why he encouraged young Timothy, who was undergoing trials within the church he was leading, to endure to the end. To be like the "hardworking farmer" who plants his crops in eager expectation and then patiently, persistently and whole-heartedly continues working the land-sometimes laboring for long hours in the heat and cold and the wind and rain despite all the heartaches, ups and downs, and setbacks that come with being a farmer. It's only then, by enduring through the trials Paul stressed, that Timothy, like the hard working farmer, would reap the benefits of his labor and "be the first to receive a share of the crops." 

So today, may you and I dedicate ourselves to reaping a harvest that might not be instant-laboring day and night through trials and setbacks to win others to Christ. May each one of us be like the “hardworking farmer” so that others might come to know Jesus because of our efforts. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that shows the benefits of working like a farmer. Of not giving up when things get hard, but pressing on through the trials. Help us to remember that success in anything we do doesn't happen overnight but is always a result of hard work and patient endurance. Help us to cultivate those characteristics within ourselves. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Giving it all to you - Carrollton

https://youtu.be/XTA7Lf5rogM

http://www.instyle.com/celebrity/shalane-flanagan-nyc-marathon

Use it for good

"As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today." Genesis 50:20

While many Americans were celebrating Veterans Day by attending a parade or participating in a memorial 5k, Rob Jones was running his last marathon of the month on the streets outside the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. You see in early October, this 32-year-old veteran set out to run 31 marathons in 31 days in 31 major cities with the goal of raising $1 million for veterans charities. Of this journey, Rob said, "I’m trying to just get a story out there about a veteran. Went to Afghanistan. Had a traumatic experience. Lost both my legs. But I was still able to come home and find my new way that I was going to contribute to my country and stay in the fight. I just want to get that story out there so people can use it.” And as of early Saturday afternoon, Jones' 812.2-mile run had raised roughly $135,000 for veterans’ groups-but he says there is still much more to be done.

Isn't it amazing how much good can come out of a bad situation when a person is determined to do what they can, where they are, and despite the circumstances that brought them there? Joseph’s story certainly proved that as well. As a young man, he was sold by his brothers into slavery and yet used every difficult circumstance that followed to serve the Lord, eventually leading him to a spot of leadership that allowed him to save the Egyptian people from a seven-year famine that wracked the land. But you can be sure that if Joseph had chosen to wallow in his circumstances and grieve over the "evil" that was done against him instead, he never would have been a part of God's plan to bring "good" out of it. 

Perhaps, because of the "evil" actions of another or something you might have done, you find yourself wondering how good could ever come out of your situation today and are ready to give up? Well let me assure you, like he did for Joseph and so many others, God can and will overrule "evil" to bring about "good" results... if you will simply trust His plan and allow yourself to be used. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the many examples in history that clearly show that you delight in bringing good endings out of evil beginnings. Help us to trust your plan when we don't understand it and to be patient and hard-working as you work all things out. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

I will rise - Jason Gray

https://youtu.be/iGJGsQUrltQ

https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/2017/11/11/veteran-rob-jones-completes-month-marathons-raise-money-awareness/855311001/

Creation declares His existence-Dogwood Canyon 2017

"For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood from His workmanship, so that men are without excuse." Romans 1:20 BSB

Have you ever witnessed the spectacular beauty of an early morning sunrise or the miracle of changing leaves and wondered how anyone looking at the same thing could ever doubt the existence of God? Especially this time of year when His handiwork is even more apparent and striking than ever? I seriously pondered that many times this weekend as I was running up and down the Ozark Mountains, blessed to be participating in the Dogwood Canyon trail run in Lampe, MO. From the mist coming off the springs I, and several hundred others runners, scampered through to the changing elevations of the terrain lined with trees of all colors we ran through, I was in complete awe of the detailed creation around me-and made keenly aware there there was most assuredly a divine Artist that painted this portrait of nature. 

You know the Bible also tells us that God makes himself known through nature saying, "since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities.. have been clearly seen.. from His workmanship, so that men are without excuse." In other words, "His eternal power and divine nature" are revealed through the intricate detail and beauty of the world around us-characteristics of creation that could surely not have been formed by anything other than the hand of a mighty Creator. 

The famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright, who drew his inspiration from the world around him once wrote, "I believe in God, only I spell it Nature." And frequently said to his students looking to learn, "Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you.” Yes indeed. You and I will never fail to learn more about the Lord than by studying the works of His hands and encouraging others to do the same.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the glimpses into your character that creation provides. From the mighty oaks and rushing water that display your power to the tiny blades of grass that show your attention to detail, your presence can be felt. May we forever be in awe that the same God who created these things loves us so much that He would create a world so beautiful that "men are without excuse" for not believing that they might be saved. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Overwhelmed - Big Daddy Weave

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6oxXwRWFTo

Day one started with the 15k challenge with some friends

Day 2 with my three friends completing the 25k and me, by God's grace alone, the 50k

Our shirts say it all. 

Divine willpower

"But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.)" Romans 8:9 NLT

Cambridge Dictionary defines willpower as the ability to control your own thoughts and behavior, especially in difficult situations. And according to Runner's World Magazine, building up your willpower can actually make you a better runner. But how do you build up or strengthen it? The science behind building any muscle, they say, applies to willpower too-the more you use it, the stronger it becomes. And the stronger your willpower becomes, the better able you are to wield it to power through a hard workout, choose carrots over cake and opt for recovery sleep over a late-night Netflix binge. 

And you know, when it comes to having the willpower to resist and refrain from the thoughts and behaviors that cause us to sin, the Bible tells us that we were given that ability and were no longer controlled by our "sinful nature" when we accepted Jesus Christ as our Savior. Unfortunately this doesn’t mean that you and I will never have the desire to sin or satisfy the flesh again. But it does mean that, when those desires or urges arise, we will have the ability to say 'no' to them-through the power of the "Spirit of God" living in us. Now that's some divine willpower isn't it? 

So may we strengthen our "Spirit" given willpower daily by doing those things we know we should (Bible study, exercise and healthy eating) and abstaining from those things we know we shouldn't. Doing so will not only make us better runners but, more importantly, better representatives of Christ. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us your Holy Spirit to live inside us and guide our decisions and actions. Above all, may we discipline ourselves to spend time in your Word daily that we might discern what we should and should not do and equip ourselves with the willpower to act upon that knowledge. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Sold out - Hawk Nelson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GspDybPhOeY

https://www.runnersworld.com/psychology/heres-how-to-build-up-your-willpower

Accept the rebuke

"The person who loves correction loves knowledge, but anyone who hates a rebuke is stupid." Proverbs 12:1 ISV

Last Saturday, Dave Jones, from Hanson, Ky, crossed the finish line of the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon to come one race closer to his goal of completing a marathon in all 50 states and on all seven continents in one year. And while he admits that being over 6-feet tall and weighing 235 pounds makes running painful, he says he continues because running helped him kick a long-time nicotine addiction, lose weight and satisfies his desire to achieve difficult goals. Knowing that his endeavor is a wild one, Dave relates his wife's answer whenever she's asked about it: "He's an idiot." A title that he says, he can't necessarily disagree with. 

And while Jones and his wife can laugh about him being a self-proclaimed "idiot", the Bible is clear that an idiot, or stupid person, is one title we should never seek to claim. You see, "anyone who hates a rebuke", or refuses constructive criticism or advice from others, is unwilling to learn and better themselves and will remain "stupid". On the other hand, "the person who loves correction” will seek “knowledge” from others and continue to learn and grow in their understanding of the Bible and, therefore, become a wiser person. 

So while you and I may, like Dave, be an "idiot" in our running pursuits, may we be shrewd in our pursuit of knowledge. May we graciously accept discipline and correction when necessary and learn all we can from the wisdom of others. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for being so patient with us when we are "stupid" and let pride get in the way of our acceptance of advice and well-intentioned criticism that would serve to make us wiser. Help us to humble ourselves that we might listen and learn from others and broaden and deepen our understanding of the Word. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Lay down my pride - Jeremy Camp

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3QGosPo1zk

http://www.ksdk.com/article/news/nation-now/hes-an-idiot-says-wife-of-man-who-plans-to-run-57-marathons-in-a-year/465-a782bfee-b499-4ae3-a88e-c5a29bdf138d

Free from fear

"Because God’s children are human beings—made of flesh and blood—the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying." Hebrews 2:14,15

The Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon in Lake Buena Vista is billed as a "breathtaking morning run capped by a spectacular evening of food and wine." This event, which took place at Florida's Magic Kingdom Sunday, gave 15,000 runners a chance to run 13.1 miles while meeting Disney characters along the way. Unfortunately though, there was one runner who never made it to the evening celebration. The runner, who has not yet been identified, was near the finish line before he suddenly collapsed and died. I'm sure he never expected this would be the way his time on earth would end. 

The truth is though, whether it's expected or unexpected, we will all die. And how we view that absolute truth will affect the way we live each day. You see, if we live our lives "as slaves to the fear of dying", we are never free to live boldly and to do those things God has called us to-preferring to stay where it's safe and not take any chances. But when you and I are free from that fear, we are free to live to the fullest and fulfill our purpose in life. And that purpose is, quite simply, to serve God and bring Him glory. 

So if that fear is keeping you from living your life to the fullest today, I pray that you will remember... death on this earth is not the end of life but the glorious doorway to an eternal life with Christ. Knowing that, won’t you make the decision to boldly live out your remaining days as someone who has been “set free” and make a difference in the world while you still can? I sure plan to. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that clearly tells us that death is not the end. May we truly grasp that today that we might be free to live, free to take chances and free to live our lives boldly to win others to you. May we never back down in fear from any task (no matter how crazy it seems) you have called us to. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Be one - Natalie Grant
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iq-6pXBHCZM

http://nypost.com/2017/11/06/runner-dies-after-collapsing-during-walt-disney-world-race/

When it makes no sense

"But when people keep on sinning, it shows that they belong to the devil, who has been sinning since the beginning. But the Son of God came to destroy the works of the devil." 1 John 3:8

In a story that made headlines Sunday, Shalane Flanagan became the first American to win the New York City Marathon in the women's division since 1977 saying, "These are the moments we dream of as athletes.” Unfortunately though, there was another story that made headlines too-one that, as Christians, we dream of only in our worst nightmares. Twenty-six people were shot and killed while attending service that same day at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs in what is now being called the worst mass shooting in Texas history. It’s unimaginable isn’t it?

Do you ever, like me, find it inconceivable that people can be so evil? But the Bible is very clear that when sin first entered the world through Adam, people would "keep on sinning." And because of that, there would never be a shortage of bad things happening. And while you and I may never understand these things, we can take comfort in knowing that Jesus, "the son of God came to destroy the works of the devil" so that, one day, sin will have no more power, all evil will be destroyed and we will live in a perfect world. 

But until that day comes my friend, you and I must continue to trust Him-when things make sense and even more when they don’t. Because as Matt Moore writes, "If he wanted us to know everything there is to know, he would have revealed everything there is to know. But instead, he has given to us all the truth we need to know about him and his dealings in the world, and he calls us to humbly trust him in light of this revelation."

Heavenly Father, while we may never understand why so many bad things happen in this world, help us to trust that you are still on the throne and that nothing takes you by surprise. But mostly Lord, help us to remember that when your saints die seemingly before their time, that they are immediately ushered into your presence and we will, one day, see them again. May that thought bring comfort to all those grieving in Texas today. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

The cross has the final word - Newsboys

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jI1E6s-5hVI

http://www.espn.com/sports/endurance/story/_/id/21312459/2017-tcs-new-york-city-marathon-race-take-away-shalane-flanagan

On pace

"I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love" Ephesians 4:1, 2

Not only was I blessed to run the Bass Pro Marathon on such a beautiful fall day yesterday but I had the additional blessing of doing it as a pacer or, as Livestrong.com defines it, a person who helps other runners stay on track by maintaining a specific time per mile to finish a race in a specific time. In other words, my "job", or calling for the day, was to run a consistent race from start to finish so that others could follow my lead and reach the finish line in the time slot I was assigned (4 hours, 20 minutes). And to do this required checking my GPS watch several times each minute for 26.2 miles to ensure I was (and stayed) "on pace." Too fast and I would immediately slow down-too slow and I would immediately speed up. 

  

And you know, while running a consistent race requires constant diligence, living a consistent life "worthy of the calling" of being chosen to be Christ's representatives here on earth requires even more watchfulness. Paul knew that when when he urged the people at the church in Ephesus to persistently and constantly "walk in a manner" that showed that they were His-being humble, gentle, patient and loving at all times. And you can be sure that to stay "on pace", or consistent in doing that, required frequent checks for them as it will for us. 

So how well would you say you were doing today living a steady or consistent Christian life? If you were leading others by the way you live, would you say you were leading them to the Lord or away from him? That's a very important question to consider my friend because, whether we realize it or not, people are always watching us. 

Heavenly Father, help us to walk so closely with you that others will be drawn to you by the way we live our lives. And while we know we will never be perfect, help us to never quit striving for excellence that we might successfully lead others to the ultimate finish line by always staying "on pace" in our walk with you. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Lift you up - Ryan Stevenson

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZdmS69DHpc

Just smile

"A glad heart makes a happy face; a broken heart crushes the spirit." Proverbs 15:13 NLT

Sure. Everyone wants to be a better runner right? Well, according to a new study in the journal Psychology of Sport and Exercise, becoming a more efficient runner may be as simple as putting a smile on your face. Although it sounds crazy, they said, it works in the lab and for the greatest marathoner in the world, Eliud Kipchoge, who can be seen smiling intermittently throughout most of his races. The most likely explanation is that smiling primes a more relaxed emotional state, in turn reducing sympathetic nervous system activity (which can influence heart rate) and muscle tension, allowing you to run more efficiently. There’s lots more research needed to confirm that idea, but for now, it’s a pretty low-risk intervention to try. Maybe someone will even smile back.

And when it comes to having a smile on our face, Solomon tells us that, "A glad heart makes a happy face" and a "broken heart crushes the spirit." He knew that the heart was the core of a person, and that the condition of it would show on peoples’ faces. You see, when our hearts are filled with the promises of God's Word, we can't help but be "glad" (and smile) knowing that He is always with us, always faithful and always forgiving. But when we take our eyes off Christ, our hearts will be "broken". We will live defeated lives with no hope for a future and our spirits will be crushed and shattered. That would surely make it impossible to smile now, wouldn't it?

But you know what? We don't have to live that way. No one does. God desires a relationship with each one of us and wants to replace every "broken heart" with a "glad" one. He wants to give you and me the greatest reason to smile. The question is... will you let him? 

Heavenly Father, thank you for always giving us a reason to smile. When we are tempted to think otherwise, help us to remember your promises and that, no matter what is happening to us or around us, this life is short compared to the joyous and eternal life awaiting us. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Kirk Franklin - I smile

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HLyokFc_e8c

https://www.outsideonline.com/2256666/smiling-makes-you-more-efficient-runner

Take that rest day

"It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep." Psalm 127:2

Women's Running Magazine most recently answered the question many runners ask, "Should I ever take a break?" The simple answer was, "Yes! No matter how much you love running, it's important to let your mind and body rest." Especially, they said, if your legs are constantly tired, running isn't as enjoyable is it once was, or you're at the end of a training cycle. They went on to say that constantly pushing your body to the extreme can negatively affect your running and your overall wellness. So, as much as you want to fight it, making a rest day a part of your routine is a great idea. 

You know, God desires that we rest as well. As Christians we know this right? But if we know this, why are so many of us not doing it? Why are we constantly “eating the bread of anxious toil?” Could it be that taking a day of rest means that we have to surrender our plans and trust that God will take care of things for us? Trust that our world won't come to a stop if we give up control for 24-hours? And while you can be sure that hard work honors God, there has to be a balance. And that balance is to trust God to provide for our needs through our hard work but also to trust God to provide for our needs while we rest from that work. You see, God knows rest is important for our overall wellness too. After all, He made us. 

And if you’re still questioning the benefits of physical and spiritual resting, consider the words of Charles Spurgeon, "Rest time is not waste time. It is economy to gather fresh strength… It is wisdom to take occasional furlough. In the long run, we shall do more by sometimes doing less."

Heavenly Father, thank you for promising to give rest to your beloved. Help us to realize the importance of resting in your presence that we would enter into it regularly. Refresh us today Lord and help us to have a balance in our lives trusting that you will provide for us at work and at rest. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!

Be still my soul - Kari Jobe

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=4&v=mq59iE3MhXM

http://womensrunning.competitor.com/2017/10/health-wellness/running-break-3-reasons_82206