Cause for celebration

"For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory." Deuteronomy 20:4

Leighanna Kolp, 14, of Chugiak, Alaska, crossed the finish line of the Mayor's Marathon 5k race in 72 minutes Saturday, beating her previous time by more than 17 minutes. And while completing a 3.1 mile race is always cause for celebration, for Leighanna it was even more so. You see, she was born without her right leg, has cerebral palsy and had reconstructive hip surgery two years ago. Of her determination to do the seemingly impossible, Kolp said, "It's one thing to have a disability, and it's another to let it overtake you. I'm going to choose to do things even if they're hard. Even for regular people, not everything is going to be easy in life. There are certain things you're gonna have to fight for."

And you know what? She's right. Not everything is going to be easy in this life. The Bible clearly tells us that. There will most definitely be things that you and I are going to have to fight for even if, and especially when, it’s hard-like our marriages, our families, and our integrity, some of the main things the devil seeks to destroy. But you know what? The Bible is also clear that you and I won't be fighting the battle alone, "For the Lord your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory."

So no matter what battle you and I might be facing or what enemy we might be fighting today, may we find peace in the knowledge that God's promises are always true. And He has promised us victory over the enemy. Now isn't that cause for celebration? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that we do not face our battles alone and, therefore, have no need to worry. May that understanding bring us joy, determination and hope as we strive to overcome the obstacles that come our way. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Champion - Beckah Shae

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

It will work

"Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD himself, is the Rock eternal." Isaiah 26:4

When Kim Robinson became in desperate need of a new kidney, his son, Matthew Robinson, 20, a track runner for Frostburg State University, knew that he would be the one to donate it saying, "I trusted God, knowing He would do His thing." And after a successful surgery, the two said the experience strengthened their relationship and gave them a new appreciation for the value of life. "We all go through something for a reason, and this was to bring the whole family even closer," Matthew Robinson said. "I never thought about life or death, but I've always trusted in God — he was the real rock behind this. I know however He plans it out, it will work."

You know, as I read the story titled, "Runner donates kidney to father, competes 4 months later," I was in awe of Matthew's faith and love for his dad. Despite having a promising track career, he put his plans on hold because he had confidence that God "would do His thing." And because he believed that God was the rock behind it all,  Robinson knew it would all work out. In other words, Matthew knew what Isaiah knew, "the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal," the Provider of our strength, never changing and always the same yesterday, today and forever.

And because God is solid and unchanging in nature, we too can "trust in the Lord forever." That means, there is no reason to fear, no reason to worry and no reason to fret about this life or what is to come my friend. We can have complete peace knowing that however God plans it out, it will work. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that our ways are not Your ways but that Your way is always better. Help us to truly believe that today that we might find peace in a world that is chaotic and always changing. Help us to have the faith that says, I know however You plan it out, it will work. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

My feet are on the Rock - I AM THEY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2uYiHiJTN6Y

Failure is not the end

"Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the LORD." Lamentations 3:40

After two failed attempts to win the Western States Endurance Run, the world's oldest 100-mile trail race that most runners consider the ultimate endurance test, Jim Walmsley won this weekend with a time of 14 hours, 30 minutes. His previous attempts included getting lost in the last few miles of the 2016 race, a competition where he had been in the lead until mile 93 and then placed 20th due to his mistake, and a DNF in 2017 because of extreme heat. Learning from his past errors is what, undoubtedly, helped him to not only win this year, but beat the course record by 16 minutes. Talk about learning from your mistakes!

And you know, as Walmley's victory shows, failure doesn't always mean that it's over. In fact, failure may be the very thing that gave him the wisdom to succeed. The same is true of our pursuit to follow Christ. You see, no matter how hard you and I try, we will all get tripped up by sin and fail from time to time, and it’s at those moments that you and I have a choice to make. Give up or learn from our mistakes and press on--which we do by thoroughly examining our ways, motives and actions to identify the cause of our downfall, repenting of the sin that caused it, and returning "to the Lord." 

So remember my friend. As Denis Waitley wrote, "Failure should be our teacher, not our undertaker. Failure is delay, not defeat. It is a temporary detour, not a dead end." Failure doesn't always mean that it's over.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that failure doesn't mean that it's over. Help us to remember that defeat can make a great stepping stone when we learn from it, turn back to You, and press on. Help us to do that Lord. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Get back up - Toby Mac

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MX5OqyBYKh4

Be that someone

"How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” Romans 10:14,15 NIV

As I surveyed the damage inflicted on my feet after running an ultramarathon race over the weekend, I could only shake my head and laugh. They were splotched and swollen from a heat rash, two toenails were about to fall off and an enormous blister had taken residence on the side of my big toe. And while my less than good-looking tootsies might have most people cringing at the sight of them in sandals, I had to smile. You see, the Bible says that "the feet of those who bring good news" are beautiful (even when they appear otherwise). 

And just where do these feet of mine, that God has called "beautiful" go to "bring the good news" you might wonder? Everywhere. Why everywhere? Because, regardless of what you and I might think, there are lost people everywhere, even in our own backyards, who need to hear about the love of Jesus Christ and his offer of Salvation. And it is the job of every Christian to do the same. Think about it my friend... "how can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?" 

So may you and I be that someone today who is ready, willing and able to share the Good News wherever we go and with whomever it is we are prompted to share it with. Can you imagine how different our world would be if we did? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that there are lost people everywhere in our world. May we truly grasp that so we would be anxious to share the Good News with all those you put in our path, whether it be at home, on the racecourse, in the workplace, in our communities or abroad. Help us to have beautiful feet. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Good News - Mandisa

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LKDrg8qPt70

Avoid dehydration

"The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple." Psalm 19:7

Crowding together with the other participants at the start line of an 80k race early Saturday morning, I listened closely to the race directors' last words of advice, "Runners, as you know, there will be a few aid stations out there on the course today--but it will get hot and they are several miles apart so I hope you all are carrying personal hydration devices with you." Looking around, I was happy to see that these experienced runners, with their hand-held bottles, waist packs and camelbaks, had already anticipated the need to stay hydrated and were ready to fill up at each stop. 

Did you know that even mild dehydration can cause changes in a persons' mood and energy level? And if not remedied, lead to severe dehydration and even death? That's true both physically and spiritually my friend. Which is why it's important to catch any degree of dehydration early. And while water may be what invigorates the body, David knew that "The law of the Lord" is what invigorates our spirit and refreshes our soul.

So when it comes to avoiding dehydration, you and I would do well to keep our water bottles handy and sip from them often throughout the day. And that same advice applies to our walk with Christ. To avoid experiencing the ill effects of spiritual dehydration, you and I need to keep our Bibles handy and take in the Word each and every day.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the timely reminder that dehydration of any kind can be detrimental, and even deadly, to our health. Help us to recognize our constant need for Living Water that we might not have to experience the effects of spiritual dehydration such as irritability, hopelessness, insecurity, despair, sleeplessness, guilt, fear, fatigue, depression, sadness, loneliness, despair, doubt and separation from You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!

Refresh me - Leeland
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HcGrYvyQleU

All glory to Him

"Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness." Psalm 29:2

Sixteen-year-old Katelyn Tuohy, a sophomore at North Rockland High in New York, ran a 4:33.87 mile on Sunday at the New Balance Nationals to break a 36-year-old record. And not only is she the Rockland girls outdoor track and field athlete of the year, holding many other records, she is now regarded as today's top female American high school runner. When asked why Katelyn was so fast, her coaches cited intelligence, natural ability and work ethic. Touhy, however, credits her coaches for never pushing too hard or too fast, saying, "They helped me progress steadily. I didn’t burn out like people thought I would."

But you know, as much as Katelyn's hard work helped her improve upon her natural talent and how much her coaches may have helped her hone her skills, the credit for her speed ultimately goes to the Lord. You see, God designed her. Just as he designed each one of us, completely unique even down to our fingerprints, with different skills, abilities and talents. David certainly understood that all we have and all we are come from God as well and so wrote, "Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name." 

So the next time you're tempted to take credit for something God has blessed you with, won't you give the glory to God instead? Not only will it go to the One to whom it rightly belongs, but will allow us an opportunity to be a witness and testimony to a lost world. After all, isn't that why He gave us our talents anyway?

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that You are worthy of all praise, honor and glory. Help us to always remember that it is You that formed us and gave us every talent that we have. Let us not boast in our own abilities Lord but boast about only Your strength that others might come to know You because of it. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

In Christ alone will I glory - Brian Littrell

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

The time is now

"Farmers who wait for perfect weather never plant. If they watch every cloud, they never harvest." Ecclesiastes 11:4

About a year ago, 5-foot-8-inch Bob Page, 50, weighed 320 pounds and was on medication for high blood pressure, high cholesterol and adult onset diabetes. Knowing he had to make a change, he began a doctor-prescribed diet plan and cut out fast food. Soon after, he says, he began walking and promptly committed himself to walking a 5k every day thereafter with the goal of being able to run the entire distance one day, which he eventually did. Of the transformation and weight loss of over 120 pounds, Bob said, "I’m just a regular guy. I wish it didn’t take me this long in life to get to this point. So if you are reading this and if you think you can’t, I couldn’t either, but I did and continue to do."

Perhaps you're in need of a transformation, or a thorough or dramatic change, too? One that you've been putting off? Perhaps it's a physical change? Or maybe even a spiritual one? Whatever it is, the Bible is very clear that, just as "farmers who wait for perfect weather never plant," people who wait for the perfect time or for the perfect set of circumstances to act, never carry out their intentions. In other words, if you and I want to reap a "harvest" one day, we can't wait for the perfect conditions to get started. We have to begin now.

So whatever it is you need to do, do it today my friend. Because, in the words of Charles Swindoll, "The habit of always putting off an experience until you can afford it, or until the time is right, or until you know how to do it is one of the greatest burglars of joy. Be deliberate, but once you’ve made up your mind–jump in.”

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that there is no perfect time to make changes. If you are calling us to make a change either physically or spiritually, I pray that we would heed the promptings today and began a journey of transformation that will draw us closer to You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Our time is now - Colton Dixon

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

The greatest goal

"Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do." Joshua 1:8

If your goal, like mine, is to be a lifetime runner, you might consider implementing some of the tips Competitor Running published in an article Monday titled, "Expert Tips on Becoming a Forever Runner." The advice given included getting at least seven to eight hours sleep each night, taking in the right nutrition to optimize performance and wearing the right shoes to prevent injury. They also suggested finding someone to keep you accountable and energized and devoting at least 20 percent of your active time to cross-training activities such as hiking, yoga, weight training and swimming. 

But if your greatest goal, like mine, is to be a lifetime Christian (and I sincerely hope it is) the psalmist gives us this advice to follow. Study the Word continually. That means making time each and every day to read your Bible. Meditate on the Word day and night. In other words, consider the words you've read regularly and repeatedly throughout the day so that you will understand what the Word says and be able to "obey everything written in it." Not only will following this wise counsel ensure that you and I are forever followers of Jesus Christ, but that we will "prosper and succeed" in all we do. 

So set aside time each and every day to spend time with the Lord through his Word my friend. And in the words of Nancy Leigh Demoss, "As you read, pause frequently to meditate on the meaning of what you are reading. Absorb the Word into your system by dwelling on it, pondering it, going over it again and again in your mind, considering it from many different angles, until it becomes part of you."

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that the key to a successful Christian walk is spending time with You each and every day. Help us to be obedient in making Bible study the priority of our lives that we would grow closer to You and discern Your will for our lives. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

The more I seek You - Kari Jobe
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b4crRPpqoW4

Give it your all

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." Colossians 3:23, 24

Charlie Marquardt, 23, was on pace to break 4 minutes in the mile for the first time in his life at the Adrian Martinez Classic in Concord, Massachusetts, on June 7 when he said, "I started to lean over those last steps and one of my legs just didn't function right." That led to his foot catching the track and him somersaulting and slamming into the track surface as he broke the tape. He won the race but finished with a time of 4:00.38, which was just short of putting him on the list of U.S. runners who have broken the 4-minute mile. Despite the pain he suffered from the fall, Charlie said he gave the race everything he had and will try to break the barrier again this summer. 

You know, when it comes to giving everything we have, whether it be on the racecourse, in the workplace or in our homes, the Bible is clear that we are “work at it with” all our hearts, "as working for the Lord, not for human masters" since we know that we "will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward." In other words, whatever job or task God has given us to do, we should do it wholeheartedly, joyfully and to the absolute best of our abilities--remembering that when we are working and serving others, it is ultimately "the Lord Christ" we are serving. 

Martin Luther sums it up this way, "What you do in your house is worth as much as if you did it up in heaven for our Lord God. We should accustom ourselves to think of our position and work as sacred and well-pleasing to God, not on account of the position and work, but on account of the word and faith from which the obedience and the work flow." So would you say you were zealous in your workplace and home today? Serving not by mere force and necessity or grudgingly, but from the heart, and with love and good will? The answer to that is so important my friend. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that everything we do is ultimately done for You and that we should never give anything less than our best to our employer, our church or our family. In whatever You have called us to Lord, let us work at it with our whole hearts that others might come to know You because of it. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Do everything - Steven Curtis Chapman

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uVTeIMursb8

Meet the challenge

"It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure." Psalm 18:32

Most people train months or even years before attempting their first marathon. Not Sean Elmquist from Duluth Minnesota though. Having only trained for a half-marathon, he finished the 42nd annual Grandma's Marathon Saturday. It all started, he explained, when he got on the wrong bus and found himself at the full marathon starting line rather than the half marathon starting line. "I got this really sinking feeling.. but then I was like maybe I can just run the whole race." Talk about your day not going as planned! Despite the mixup, Sean said that he had a good time and would consider running 26.2 miles again, after careful planning of course. 

And you know, no matter how carefully you and I plan out 'life', we will still face unexpected challenges. It might be an unforeseen illness, a layoff notice, the threat of divorce or the death of a loved one. No matter what it is though, we would all do well to remember that God never promised us a life free from challenges--only that he would give us the strength to meet those challenges. In fact, the Bible tells us that "It is God" himself who furnishes and equips us "with strength" to finish the race when we don't have the power within ourselves to do it.  

So if you're feeling weak and incapable of taking another step today, consider the words of D.L. Moody and press on my friend... "When a man has no strength, if he leans on God, he becomes powerful.”

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that life will not always be easy and that we will all have plans that will go astray. Help us to remember that there is no problem, challenge or trial that is too big for us to overcome when we do it in Your strength. Thank You for loving us so much that You would personally walk with us through these times. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

You are my strength - Hillsong

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0jjczHhi6c

Live to the fullest

"May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God." Ephesians 3:19

Shannon Payne will be doing something many other runners will be doing Saturday morning. She will be running a 10k race. Shannon, however, will not be taking it for granted like many of us do though. You see, due to a condition called retinitis pigmentosa, Payne has gradually been losing her sight since the age of eight and, although she has very limited vision in her left eye, is considered legally blind. When asked what would inspire her to take on such a huge feat (with the help of a guide), she said, "I've got to enjoy the things that I can while I can still see them. I just believe that you can't give up your life, whether you lose your sight or your hearing, you've still got to do what you want to and enjoy it." 

I guess you could say that Shannon is determined to live her life to the fullest. What exactly does that mean though? Paul certainly lived each day to the fullest and knew the answer rested in having a deep and personal relationship with the Savior--fervently praying that the church at Ephesus would experience "the love of Christ" so they would be "made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God." You see, Paul knew that living a life apart from Christ wasn't really living at all, it was merely existing. 

So do you want to finally begin living to the fullest today? It starts with knowing Jesus Christ my friend. Call on Him. Invite Him into your heart and allow Him to direct every part of your life. I promise you won't regret it. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for showing us that living an abundant life starts with the knowledge that You love us more than we could ever fathom and want to give us the fullness of life that only comes from a personal relationship with You. Draw us closer to You Lord that we might realize that a life without You, no matter how much fame or possessions we might acquire, is really no life at all. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

If You ain't in it - Danny Gokey

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OnV5Ub92b7Q

Check the anger

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

Last Saturday, Scott Witcher, 24, was running near the Otay Ranch Mall in San Diego when he was nearly struck by an SUV at an intersection. Sual Serrano, 41, was arrested in connection with that assault Monday. Police said Serrano admitted to "cutting off the runner" and thought the runner threw something at his car. Serrano said he then stopped his car and got out before the runner flipped him off. Serrano then admitted to punching the runner, police said. Witcher had initially told police the driver threw two punches before driving away. He was struck in the face and had to get a dozen stitches. Wow. Talk about giving full vent to your anger. 

You know, the Bible describes the person who is prone to outbursts of uncontrolled rage as a fool or someone who is stupid, mindless, egotistic, rash and unwise among other things. And rightly so. You see, it's not only stupid and unwise for a person, especially a Christian, to display unrestrained anger since it always hurts those to whom the anger is vented on, it is unwise because it can most easily ruin a persons' witness and their credibility. I mean Christians are supposed to be set apart in their behavior right? Which is why we are told that "a wise person holds it in check." 

So when it comes to your anger, would you say that you are a wise person or a fool today? The answer to that question is very important my friend. Especially when you and I consider the words of Henry Blackaby, "The Christian needs to walk in peace, so no matter what happens they will be able to bear witness to a watching world." 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that we, as Christians, are supposed to display behavior that is so different from the world's that we would lead others to You by it. Help us to keep our anger in check at all times that we might not cause someone to turn away by our actions. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen, 

Happy Running!!!

Different drum - Blanca

https://youtu.be/qEvkphhvYag

Be persistent

"The judge ignored her for a while, but finally he said to himself, ‘I don’t fear God or care about people, but this woman is driving me crazy. I’m going to see that she gets justice, because she is wearing me out with her constant requests!’”Luke 18:4,5 NLT

According to her parents, cross-country runner Lila Carleton has always been a girl who wouldn't take no for an answer. So when Lila became determined to run the Vermont City Marathon at the age of 15, despite the age limit of 16, resistance from her high school coaches, and their concern for her safety, they knew they would eventually end up giving in. So after repeatedly petitioning the marathon board, consulting with other coaches and a doctor, and signing a release form, the marathon also gave in and allowed her to run the 26.2 mile course. And for her efforts, this young lady who refused to give up, crossed the finish line in 4:18:23. 

You know, when it comes to reaping the rewards for not giving up, Jesus told the disciples a story of a persistent widow who repeatedly and persistently approached a judge seeking justice. Although the judge "didn't fear God or care about people," he eventually granted her request saying, "I'm going to see that she gets justice, because she is wearing me out with her constant requests." And just like the persistent widow, you and I are not to give up praying for those things we want (that align with His will), keeping our requests constantly before the Throne, believing He will answer.

So don't ever give up praying my friend. Be persistent and remember... "A river cuts through rock, not because of its power, but because of its persistence." - Jim Watkins

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that although You always hear our prayers, You don't always answer them in the time we would like. Help us to remember that Your delays always have good reasons and that we are to continue praying in expectant hope. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

I keep praying - Jordan Family Band

https://youtu.be/yqi2HPpmskw

Nothing is too hard

"'Is anything too hard for the LORD? I will return to you at the appointed time next year, and Sarah will have a son.'" Genesis 18:14 NIV

In an amazing turn of events during the NCAA Track and Field Championships Saturday, USC's Kendall Ellis, who was running the anchor leg of the 4x400 relay and trailing the pack after a bobbled baton exchange, came from behind in the last few seconds to cinch the team's win by .07. The win was so unexpected that ESPN announcer Dwight Stone, who just moments before said "there's no way" that Purdue could lose, shouted, "Oh my goodness, oh my goodness! Look what just happened! USC wins the Women's title in the last meter of the 4x4. Unbelievable final leg by Kendall Ellis!"

"There's no way." That very well could have been Sarah's first thought when she overheard an angel saying to her husband, Abraham, "Is anything too hard for the Lord? I will return to you at the appointed time next year, and Sarah will have a son." You see, Sarah was way past child bearing age and the thought of being able to conceive was probably unbelievable. But when the promise of the Lord came true and she became pregnant and bore a son to Abraham, she realized, without a doubt, that there is absolutely nothing "too hard for the Lord."

And just as it was in Sarah's day, it is in ours'. There is absolutely nothing "too hard for the Lord" my friend. There is no problem He can't solve, no disease He can't cure, no heart He can't heal, no mountain He can't move, and no addiction He can't break. Do you believe that today? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that nothing is too hard for you. Help us to truly believe that today that we might step out in faith to attempt great things for You that would lead others to the foot of the Cross. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Nothing is impossible - Planetshakers

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

Celebrate adversity

"When Joseph was taken to Egypt by the Ishmaelite traders, he was purchased by Potiphar, an Egyptian officer. Potiphar was captain of the guard for Pharaoh, the king of Egypt." Genesis 39:1

Xoloni Nuvuno was one of 20,000 runners who participated in South Africa's Comrades Marathon yesterday. Known as the world's largest and oldest ultramarathon race of approximately 89 km (55 miles), its' primary aim as stated by their constitution is to "celebrate mankind's spirit over adversity." And if adversity is defined as difficulties or misfortune, Nuvuno, who is an amputee that overcame drug and alcohol addiction and survived cancer, most definitely embodied that spirit as he completed the race on crutches and crossed the finish line around 4:30 p.m., after almost 16 hours of running (was allowed to start five hours early).  By refusing to give up, Xoloni and his supporters are now celebrating his victory--not only for completing the race but for conquering the many obstacles and struggles along the way that could have broken his spirit.

And while you and I may never face cancer or battle drug addiction, we will all, at one point or another, face some type of adversity in our Christian walk that will tempt us to give up or break our spirit. Joseph most certainly did. He was sold as a slave by his very own brothers to some Ishamelite traders who took him to Egypt. But as trying as that event might have been for Joseph, it was this very misfortune that put him right in the will of God! You see, it was there that Joseph was "purchased by Potiphar, an Egyptian officer" who was also the "guard for Pharaoh, the King of Egypt." And through the series of events that followed (including many more hardships and difficulties), Joseph was put in a position of leadership that allowed him to save Egypt from famine.

So if you're facing some type of adversity today, consider this. Each and every trial that Joseph endured served a purpose in his life--to place him where he needed to be and to prepare him for what he needed to do. So don't give up and don't give in my friend. God could very well be doing the same with you. Isn't that a reason to celebrate?

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that our trials serve a purpose and that if we do not give up, we will celebrate the good things You have prepared for us in advance. Give us a tenacious spirit Lord that is so fixed on You that the idea of quitting never even crosses our mind. Oh use us in big ways Lord! It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Yes I will - Vertical Worship

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NrTv39-lG4M

Step out in faith

"Once again David inquired of the Lord, and the Lord answered him, “Go down to Keilah, for I am going to give the Philistines into your hand.” So David and his men went to Keilah, fought the Philistines and carried off their livestock. He inflicted heavy losses on the Philistines and saved the people of Keilah." 1 Samuel 23:4,5

In a recent interview with KVAL13 in Eugene, Oregon, Sargent Carrie Carver with the Lane County Sheriff's Department offered some quick safety tips for all of those who plan to hit the streets this summer. First and foremost, she said, it's always safer to run on well lit, well-traveled roads. But if you prefer running at night, make sure to wear reflective clothing to increase your visibility and bring a friend since there's safety in numbers. Carver also advised that runners need to stay alert of their surroundings and always make someone aware of their route. All of these reminders are in an attempt to let avid runners and beginners know that the more aware you are, the less vulnerable you are.

And while "playing it safe," or avoiding risks, is a great idea when it comes to running, "playing it safe" in our spiritual lives could cause us to abandon the plans or mission God has for us. Consider the story of David when he was told that the Philistines were fighting against Keilah. After inquiring of the Lord and being clearly told to go and attack the Philistines, David’s men were afraid and wanted to "play it safe" by staying back. David, however, inquired of the Lord again and, after receiving the same answer, stepped out in faith, "fought the Philistines... and saved the people of Keilah" just as God had commanded.

Perhaps you feel God calling you to do something today too? Something that takes you out of your comfort zone and may even cause you to be afraid? Take heart my friend knowing this. No matter how risky it may appear, if God has called you to step out in faith, He will be with you in the battle.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the promise to always be with us and to equip us with every good thing to do Your will. Fill us with the knowledge that Your strength is all we need to complete the mission you have placed on our heart. Help us to be brave Lord. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

All in - Matthew West

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0RwDpnKIvUI

Keep smiling

"Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior." Habakkuk 3:17,18

Nearing the end of my long training run yesterday morning, I looked up just in time to see a large dump truck coming towards me followed by an even larger mushroom cloud of dust kicked up from the gravel road we were sharing. Knowing there was no way to avoid the onslaught of dirt that would soon permeate my eyes and stick to my sweat-soaked skin and clothing, I smiled wide at the driver and shrugged my shoulders in an attempt to convey what I was thinking, "Oh well, these things happen." And you know what? The driver's look of horror as the cloud enveloped me turned into a smile as well. 

Unfortunately, life is filled with moments like this--moments when things happen that are totally out of our control. And while you and I may not have the power to influence people to act, or the course of events to go, in our favor, you and I do have the power to respond to them with joy. You see, for the person who has trusted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, joy can be defined as the extreme happiness with which the believer contemplates salvation and the bliss of the afterlife. And nothing that happens in this life can ever change that!

So let us, like the prophet Habakkuk, regardless of the "things" happening around us, smile and then declare, "Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior." 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that there is always a reason to rejoice when we keep our eyes focused on You. Thank you also for the reminder that salvation can never be taken away and that, no matter what bad things may happen to us in this life, we will one day experience the sheer bliss of eternal life with You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Grace got you - MercyMe

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

Friend or foe

"You people aren't faithful to God! Don't you know if you love the world, you are God's enemies? And if you decide to be a friend of the world, you make yourself an enemy of God." James 4:4 CEV

In an article published yesterday titled, "Why It’s Essential to Embrace the Heat," running coach David Roche said, "Everyone is affected by heat; it’s inevitable, and you need to embrace it. Because if you don’t make heat your friend, you are doomed to spend some of the most beautiful months each year getting intimate with misery." And while embracing, or willingly accepting, the rising temperatures might make it easier to mentally adapt to summer running, the slower race times and danger of dehydration they bring do not make heat our friend. You see, a friend is one that is on our side, opposite of an enemy, and not opposed to us. 

And while there will still be many runners that love running in the heat, there's one thing that none of us should ever love... the world. You see, James was very clear that if you and I idolize, or pursue the pleasures, possessions or positions of this life rather than seeking to follow Jesus, we are actually opposed to Him and make ourselves “God’s enemies.” Did you get that part? We make ourselves His enemies. There is no middle ground-by our actions we choose to be God's friend or His foe. It's just that simple. 

So if you’re honest, how would you describe your relationship with God at this very moment? Would you say that you are on His side? I sure hope so. Because God truly wants to call you friend today. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that we are either for You or against You. Help us to fully grasp that there is no middle ground that we might be inspired to renew our pursuit of You. Help us to see that everything the world says is "essential" to enjoying life are just cheap substitutes for the enjoyment only You can provide. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

What a friend I've found - Lincoln Brewster

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

Really listen

"Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry." James 1:19

Have you ever found yourself in the middle of a sentence when you suddenly couldn't remember the next word or the name you wanted to say? Like it was on the tip of your tongue, but you just couldn't get it? As it turns out, new research says these instances are less common for aerobically fit individuals than they are in sedentary people because exercise can help power the areas of your brain that control language processing. Meaning, runners like you are probably quicker to find the words you're trying to say.

And while being able to find our words quickly can certainly be a good thing, saying them too quickly many times is not. You see, when you and I don't take the time to really listen when another person is speaking, and consistently talk more than we allow the other person, we convey the idea that we are not really interested in, or respect, what that person has to say - which could very well discourage them from opening up to us more. James certainly understood that and so cautioned us to "be quick to listen" and "slow to speak." Doing this will not only ensure that we hear the other person's words correctly, but will show that we truly care about them and what they have to say.

So may you and I make the decision today to really take the time to listen to others. Because as Bryant McGill writes, "One of the most sincere forms of respect is actually listening to what another has to say."

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that being quick with our words is not always a good thing. Help us to remember that we have two ears and only one mouth for a reason and to truly take the time to intently listen to others and especially to You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

We are listening - Steven Curtis Chapman
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5HRGhKAfnY

Somebody tell them

"Though you have shown me many troubles and misfortunes, You will revive me once again. Even from the depths of the earth You will bring me back up." Psalm 71:20

After completing the Hospital Hill Half Marathon yesterday morning, I waited for my friends at the highest point of the park overlooking the finish line and after-race festivities. And as I waited, I watched many of the other finishers walk around, snap photos, laugh, talk and recover. In the midst of this, I was suddenly grieved by a thought. Every runner here has a story and a reason why they took that first step - and most every story began with pain. Pain from a divorce, a death, addiction, guilt, abuse, shame or a feeling of worthlessness - which means most of those smiling faces I was looking at were merely masks hiding a deep sadness within. Fighting to keep the tears from flowing, I silently and solemnly prayed, "Lord, if there's anyone here hurting today, may they find their way to You." 

But you know, runners aren't the only ones who are burdened with sorrow or who will face "troubles and misfortunes." - each one of us will experience this at some point in our lives. You may even be in the midst of a battle right now. But cheer up my friend. Because if you have put your trust in Jesus Christ, no matter what difficulty or struggle you are in, you can, like the psalmist, confidently declare, "You will revive me once again. Even from the depths of the earth You will bring me back up." 

Did you get that part? Even from the depths? That means that our Everlasting Father will restore and renew you and me from even from the most severe part of an unpleasant time, feeling, or situation. Trust Him... and then tell someone else who needs to hear it. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that many of the people that smile the biggest are hiding deep hurt, anxiety and heartache within themselves. Help us to be open to Your promptings to pray for and reach out to them. Mostly Lord, may we be ready to tell them of the hope, grace and forgiveness that only You can provide. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Somebody tell them - City Harbor

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