Discipline pays off

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

After running nearly 30 miles on Saturday at the Ultra Sweaty Santa race, the last thing I wanted to do on Sunday morning was to get up before sunrise and get in some miles before church. But knowing that running on tired legs was optimum training for the 100 mile race I had coming up, I got out of bed, sat down for Bible study and then hit the road. Was it pleasant? Not really. But as I finished up and headed inside to get ready for worship, I smiled knowing that developing the discipline to press on in spite of pain and discomfort would soon pay off in huge ways. 

And while "no discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful," it pays off in huge ways in our spiritual lives as well. You see, when you and I do things contrary to God's word, our Father will discipline or correct us to keep us on the right path. And "later on," when you and I have been "trained" over and over by God's instruction, we will reap a "harvest of righteousness and peace." In other words, it's never pleasant to be disciplined by the Lord, but it is necessary if we are to be molded into the image of Jesus. 

So welcome God’s instruction my friend. Embrace his discipline no matter how unpleasant it may be, knowing that it is necessary to make us more like Christ. And in the end, that's all that matters. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that your discipline is a sign of your great love for us. Help us to understand that just as a loving father corrects his children when they are wrong, You do even more so. May that thought bring us comfort today. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Better for it - Riley Clemmons

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9n_65BLM3A

Shine

"No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house." Matthew 5:15

On July 15 Cynthia Arnold, 34, of Polson, Montana did what most runners can only dream of doing. She ran a 1:29:08 half marathon. And if that wasn't impressive enough, she did it while pushing a three-child stroller, breaking the current world record for the fastest half marathon time for a woman pushing a three-child stroller by almost 20 minutes. Of her decision to attempt this lofty goal, she said running with the kids wasn't merely to beat a record, but to introduce them to a healthy and active way of living at a young age. In other words, Cynthia was teaching her children by example.

And you know, when it comes to being an example of what it is to live for Christ, the Bible tells us that you and I are to be like "a lamp" that is placed "on a stand" so that we might give "light to everyone in the house." You see, you and I have the power to light the path for our families, and especially our children, to follow Jesus. When we live for Christ each and every day, we will be like a beacon by which they can see and come to know the Lord. And the brighter our light shines, the better they can see the way to the foot of the Cross!

So may our lifelong goal be to shine bright my friend. And may we join together in declaring, "We will shine like stars in the universe, holding out Your truth in the darkest place. We will burn so bright with Your praise O God and declare Your light to this broken world. We'll be living for Your glory Jesus, we'll be living for Your glory."

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that we are to shine light into the darkness that others might come to know You because of it. Help us to continually fan the flames of our faith by daily Bible study, prayer and meditation that our light would never dim but continue to get brighter each and every day. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Shine - Matt Redman

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ffBqWn7J9nU

Be an example

"Always set a good example for others. Be sincere and serious when you teach. " Titus 2:7

In an effort to celebrate Christmas in July for a good cause, I was blessed to join with several other volunteers to host a six-hour event titled Ultra Sweaty Santa. And you know, not only did the participants of this race give their all in packing shoe boxes and collecting donations to benefit Operation Christmas Child, they gave their all out on the course-with record numbers of the runners stating that they went above and beyond the mileage they thought they could achieve Saturday. And the number one reason they did this I later learned? Because someone out there on the trail, either by words or actions, inspired them to keep going. 

And you know, whether you and I want to believe it or not, our conduct, whether good or bad, could most assuredly influence others to either follow the Lord or go astray from Him. The apostle Paul certainly understood this, urging Titus to "always set a good example for others" and to "be sincere and serious when you teach." He was reminding the overseer of the churches at Crete that he was to live out what he preached so that others would follow his lead and become more like Jesus by doing so. 

So I wonder today... if those around you were imitating your actions, would they be showing Christ-like behavior? I sure hope so my friend. Because you and I, as Christians, should be leading others closer to the Lord and not further away. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that our actions and speech have power. Help us to be good examples to those around us of what a good and faithful follower of Jesus Christ is that we might draw them closer to You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

All in - Matthew West 

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

Guard your eyes

"'Your eye is a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is good, your whole body is filled with light. But when your eye is bad, your whole body is filled with darkness. And if the light you think you have is actually darkness, how deep that darkness is!" Matthew 6:22,23 NLT

Runner's World Magazine recently reported that our hearts are not the only organ in our bodies that can benefit from regular running. In new research set to be published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, studies found that the more fit and active a person is, the less likely they are to develop glaucoma, a serious eye disease that can lead to blurry vision and even blindness. Running 10 miles per week at a 10-minute pace, they say, is all it takes to rank in the study's fittest, most-active category. That's another great reason to lace up those shoes isn't it? 

And you know, when it comes to healthy eyes and clear vision, the Bible tells us that when our eyes are good or healthy, our "whole body is filled with light" but when they are bad, our "whole body is filled with darkness." In other words, our eyes are a doorway to our minds. Which means that if you and I are going to be pure, or filled with the light of Jesus, we must be vigilant about guarding that doorway by monitoring the things (movies, books, internet sites) we allow our eyes to see. 

So knowing that we are "filled" with the things we view, may we be choose to look upon only those things that will draw us closer to the Lord my friend and pray as David did... "Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word." 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that the things that we put into our minds have the power to make us more like You or less like You. Help us to truly grasp that thought that we might tenaciously guard the things we allow ourselves to look upon that we might be filled with light. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen, 

Happy Running!!!

Turn your eyes on Jesus - Selah

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nA2VpysAvgk

Extend the invitations

"Now go out to the street corners and invite everyone you see.’ So the servants brought in everyone they could find, good and bad alike, and the banquet hall was filled with guests." Matthew 22:9,10

As my friend, Ashley, and I were marking the course and setting out cones before Saturday's early morning color run that I was blessed to be helping with, I was approached by a young boy and his father who were walking in the park. "What's going on? What are you all doing?" the little boy asked. And after I excitedly told him about the fun race that would be going on in less than an hour, I invited them both to join us saying, "The registration table is right over there and I promise you won't regret it." To my delight, they not only ran the race (and had fun), they joined our running group too. 

And when it comes to invitations, do you realize that the greatest offer that you and I could ever extend to anyone is to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior? You see, whether we believe it or not, there are many lost people in our world, even in our own backyards, that don't know about Jesus and the celebration that God is preparing for all those who believe. Which is why we are told to "go out to the street corners and invite everyone" we see. This is not a mere suggestion either my friend. It is a command. 

So may you and I be bold in inviting everyone we see "good and bad alike" to the great Wedding Banquet that is to come, so that the "hall" might be "filled with guests." It's one event of which you can most assuredly and excitedy proclaim, "Please join me. I promise you won't regret it." 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the promise that everyone who calls upon the name Jesus will spend eternity with You. Please place an urgency inside each of our spirits to boldly invite all we see to the foot of the Cross that no one would perish without having a relationship with You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Come to the table - Sidewalk Prophets

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXXxLwxfo0U

A new life

“And he commanded the chariot to stop, and they both went down into the water, Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him." Acts 8:38 ESV

50-year old runner Lynda Clark said she was baptized as a baby and has believed in God for as long as she can remember. But for most of her life, until she found a new church that inspired her to rededicate herself to the Lord, she says she felt she was just "going through the motions and doing what I was 'supposed' to do." And upon embracing this new life and relationship with Jesus, she felt it was time to publicly profess her new-found faith. So on Sunday, July 15, Lynda traded her running shoes for sandals to wade into the waters of the Niangua River to be baptized amidst the cheers of her friends and family. 

And you know, it's never too late to establish or reestablish a relationship with Jesus Christ. At any age, it will be the best decision anyone could ever make and one that should be followed by baptism. Why? Because baptism is the outward testimony, or public declaration, of the inward change in a believer’s life and an act of obedience to the Lord after salvation. You see, being submerged in the water represents death to sin and emerging from the water represents the cleansed, holy life that follows salvation. It says to the world, "I have a new life!" 

So if you are a believer but have never been baptized my friend, today is the best day to follow the example of the eunuch who, upon hearing and believing the good news about Jesus, “commanded the chariot to stop" so he could be baptized. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for allowing us, sinners deserving of death, to have new lives through You. May we be so appreciative of this that we can't help but make a public profession of our faith and desire to be baptized. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

This I believe - Hillsong

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

Listen to the voice

"Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it.'" Isaiah 30:21

Jamaican runner Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, a two-time Olympic 100m champion who missed 2017 due to pregnancy, broke 11 seconds for the first time as a mother Saturday to win the 100m race at the London Olympic Stadium. Of her comeback to racing, she said, "I cannot complain because I haven’t raced for ages and I’m happy that the run today was under 11 seconds. It’s hard work racing after having a child, but it’s not as though it’s anything I’m not used to. I’m used to sacrificing and making sure that my path is right. Being a mother is my first priority and to come back and be flexible with my training is wonderful and I’m so excited about next year now.”

An outspoken Christian, I loved how "making sure that my path is right" is a constant and consistent pursuit in her life-as it should be for all believers. How do we make sure that our paths are right though? By following the words of Isaiah who said, "Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." In other words, before deciding on any path to wander down, you and I should consult the Lord and then carefully listen to and completely obey the Holy Spirit's promptings-not taking even one step that is contrary to His "voice". 

So may we make prayer and Bible study a priority that we might learn to know the Father's voice and discern His perfect will for our lives. It's only then that you and I can be sure to stay on the right path my friend. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for loving us so much that You would choose to personally direct our every step. Through Bible study and prayer, help us to look to You for guidance in every area of our lives that we might walk in step with You at all times. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Spirit of the Living God - Meredith Andrews

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hPks3NQwH28

Serve wholeheartedly

"Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people," Ephesians 6:7 NIV

Finding myself in desperate need of volunteers after a miscommunication Saturday, I scanned the park for people I might know that would be willing to help throw color on the participants of the Color Run taking place that morning. And in answer to prayer, there wasn't just one person that I knew but many! "Oh thank you Lord," I quickly and appreciatively said as I approached them for help. And you know what? Not only was each person more than happy to assist with no notice, they all jumped in to serve "wholeheartedly" with smiles on their faces.

Shouldn't this be the response of every Christian when they see a need though? Paul certainly thought so, urging the the church at Ephesus to, "Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord" and "not people." You see, whether you and I get paid for a job or do it voluntarily, all of our work should be done as if we were working directly for God and to please Him. That means serving others or our employers enthusiastically, with a cheerful heart and to the very best of our ability (no matter who's watching). 

So let us work together as often as the opportunity allows knowing that we can accomplish much more that way. And in all we do remember that, as Steve Welton writes, "Our work is not ultimately done for the people around us, but for the glory of our heavenly Father."

Heavenly Father, thank You for people who unselfishly step up to serve when they see a need. May they realize how important and appreciated their actions are. May each one of us be those people who can be counted on to work as if working for the Lord and serve others wholeheartedly any time an opportunity arises. May You be glorified in our doing so. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

You're worthy of my praise - Jeremy Camp

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V72nsl4YE4E

The imposter

"Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love." ESV

Runner's World magazine recently reported the story of a Wisconsin man who, upon crashing his car, removed some of his clothing to pass himself off as an "uninvolved jogger" as he fled the scene. It seems the unidentified 19-year-old driver had attempted to change lanes at the same time as another vehicle, overcorrected his car, went into the shoulder and then flipped into the oncoming lane before his car came to rest in a group of trees. And although he got away, the running imposter was later apprehended and ticketed for failure to have control, hit and run, and operating after revocation. 

And you know, as this story shows, an imposter, or a person who pretends to be someone else in order to deceive others, will eventually be caught. Just as a person who claims to be a Christian, or someone who loves God, but acts contrary to those claims will be revealed for who they truly are. You see, the Bible tells us that "whoever loves has been born of God and knows God" but "anyone who does not love does not know God." Which means that if we claim to love the Lord but can’t even love our neighbor, there’s something wrong. 

So no matter how much a person may claim to follow the Lord, if they don't love others, they are an imposter. By your actions then, which would people say that you are today?

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that if we truly know You that we will love others, even those who have caused us pain or heartache. If we find ourselves unable to love those people Lord, help us to discern the reason and draw closer to You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Greatest of these - Hillsong United

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lsR2JgsciTQ

It takes hard work

"All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty." Proverbs 14:23

Just recently, my friend Darrell updated his Facebook status by saying, "This time last year, I was thinking how I should get in better health and fitness." Having only met him in October and knowing that his current fitness level allowed him to easily run 7-8 miles at a time, I was curious what had motivated his new-found fitness. To my question, he said, "I was 50 pounds overweight and started having health issues. In mid-July I started walking. In mid August, I could run one mile. On September first, I started a running log and in October ran a 5k" where he, by a divine appointment, met a runner who got him involved in a running group that encouraged him and held him accountable. He recently turned 66, is training for a half marathon in October, and has a lifetime dream of running a half marathon in Jerusalem.

And you know, throughout my years of running and coaching, I have learned that people who simply talk about how they would like to be fit but aren't willing to put forth the effort to do so never get fit. Solomon certainly understood this saying, "All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty." You see, he knew that to see benefits or reap rewards in anything, whether it be for spiritual, physical or monetary gains, required effort. And that a person who settled for merely talking about it would never experience success or see "a profit."

Perhaps you're where Darrell was a year ago and contemplating making a change for the better in your life? Maybe it's beginning a fitness plan? Or maybe it's advancing in your career or serving more in your church? Whatever it is, don't just talk about it my friend. Make today the day you do something about it.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the reminder that words don't produce results and that life, no matter how many years we live, is really short. Help us to act upon the things we know we should do today and "work hard" to do them, giving all the glory to You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Live life loud - Hawk Nelson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hn0xEai4vQw

Invest in eternal treasures

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal." Matthew 6:19, 20 BSB

Perhaps you're like thousands of other runners who took full advantage of Amazon Prime Day? After all, the self-described "Christmas in July" event offered savings on everything from running shoes and apparel to running watches and wireless earphones. They even included treadmills, granola bars and crockpots to make protein rich post-run food. And while all these items were made for runners, they had something else in common. Can you guess what that is? Every single item sold will one day rot, rust away or be stolen-and even the most expensive and treasured item you and I purchase will one day be worth nothing

But you know, the treadmills, watches and shoes aren't aren't the only items that will rot or rust away, everything in this world will. Which is exactly why Jesus urged us not to store up our "treasures on earth" but "in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy and where thieves do not break in and steal." Just how do we do that though? Rick Warren sums it up like this, "The way you store up treasure in heaven is by investing in getting people there.”

So I wonder today? Are you and I investing more of our time and money in acquiring 'things' or in bringing people to the foot of the Cross? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that, although there are certain things in this life that we need to get by, we would do well to invest the majority of our time and money in people and things that have an eternal impact instead. Help us to have a discerning heart that we might see the difference. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Give it all away - Sidewalk Prophets

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aacp4UgCkuc

The happiest place

"He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever." Revelation 21:4

Joseph Hostetly recently blogged that, by using 6,000 Delta miles and 4,000 Southwest points, he was able to fly from Cincinnati to Chicago and back to run what he calls the happiest 5k on the planet. This happy run, better known as The Color Run 5k, he said, is "designed to distract you from the fact that you’re doing something healthy for your body. You’re having too much fun to realize that running actually blows." He went on to say that, "The Color Run in Chicago was super fun. It was a reminder to me that miles & points are useful."

And while most everyone has a different idea of where the happiest place or event on the planet is, there is no disputing where the happiest place we could ever go is... Heaven. The Bible tells us that Heaven is a place where there will be no more tears, death, sorrow, crying or pain. Oh won’t that be a happy place? And the best part? We won't need any miles or points to get there. It is open for all those who have placed their trust in and called upon Jesus Christ to be their Lord and Savior. 

So I wonder my friend, will you be there one day? Will you be joining me in a place filled with more happiness than we could ever dream of? You will if you have accepted Jesus into your heart. Have you? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that no matter how much sorrow this world holds, every believer can look forward to being reunited with you in a place where there will be no more tears. For those who have not yet made the decision to follow You, I pray that today would be the day they would pray, "I admit that I am a sinner and I need you Jesus. I believe that You are the Son of God and that You died and rose again to save me from my sins. I ask that You come into my heart right now and dwell in me forever that I might one day join You in heaven." It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

There will be a day - Jeremy Camp 

https://g.co/kgs/fB3h9Z

A shared goal

"If then there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by thinking the same way, having the same love, sharing the same feelings, focusing on one goal." Philippians 2:1,2 HCSB

Last Saturday the Frog Fitness Group, a family of believers that I am blessed to be a part of, celebrated their one year anniversary. And as I watched and worked alongside the many volunteers that started early that day to get set up for the morning's festivities that included a 5k run, games, giveaways and free food, I couldn't help but smile at the thought that so many other people shared the goal of being the hands and feet of Jesus in our community-the very reason FFG was formed and the reason it had grown exponentially over the course of 12 months. 

And you know, there's really no limit to what can be accomplished for the Kingdom when Christians in "fellowship with the Spirit", think the same way, have the same love, share the same feelings, and focus on one goal. Paul certainly understood this which is why he stressed the importance of spiritual unity. He knew that when believers were bonded together by their shared adoration of Christ, shared the same vision and worked together to achieve it, that His purpose of reaching the lost and hurting could be better fulfilled.

So may we always remember, in the words of Pastor Rick Warren, "Success is never a one-man job; it takes teamwork. God wired it this way because the most important lesson he wants you to learn here on Earth is to love people. The stronger your team is, the more you can fulfill your dream."

Heavenly Father, thank You for your blessings this past year. Thank you for allowing FFG to grow and have a greater impact in our community. I pray that more and more people would share the vision and come alongside to serve so that more and more lives would be changed and lost people reached. Help us to be your hands and feet Jesus. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Send me out - Steve Fee
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8ZGQPW7OXg

Heal the hurts

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9 ESV

At one point or another, nearly every runner will experience an injury bad enough for their doctor to recommend cutting back on mileage for a while or even taking a complete break from running to allow the body to mend. And while downtime will most certainly give the injured body part time to heal, it may not always fix the underlying problem to prevent it from happening again. Which is why most running coaches and specialists will recommend "active recovery", or using the break to do exercises that will address muscle weaknesses and faulty mechanics to avoid re-injury, as a much better option. 

Sadly though, it's not just our physical bodies that can be injured, damaged, wounded or hurt. We can be wounded spiritually by the sin we bring into our lives or by the actions of others. No matter the cause of the pain though, unforgiveness is at the root. And just as a physical wound must be cleansed in order to heal, our spiritual healing can only begin when "we confess our sins" and allow God "to forgive us... and to cleanse us" and then we, in turn, forgive those who have hurt us. You see it's only then that we can let go of the bitterness, strife, resentfulness, hurt, anger, guilt, and self-pity that continues to cause us pain.

So won't you make the choice to be healed today my friend? Won't you forgive just as you have been forgiven and then let it go? 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the reminder that unconfessed and unforgiven sin as well as our unforgiveness of others is harmful to us in so many ways. Help us to freely let go of both that we might be thoroughly cleansed and healed and completely healed. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Even when it hurts - Hillsong United

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XSvFEaFDn00

Learn from the ant

"Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones. Learn from their ways and become wise!" Proverbs 6:6 NLT

In an article titled, "A lazy person's guide to start running," Craig Risi offered some advice to those gamers and entertainment junkies that need to get off the couch saying, "It might sound cliched, but physical exercise is incredibly good for you." And his advice? Start slow, stretch, do core exercises and build up distance gradually. And most importantly, he said, "You need to do it regularly. At least three times a week... I know this means more time away from your TV and games but just imagine how much better you will feel when your gaming actually improves because your mind is suddenly a lot more alert." 

Did you know that 80 percent of Americans don't get the recommended amount of exercise they need? And that a study last year linked physical inactivity to more than 5 million deaths worldwide per year, more than those caused by smoking? And while laziness has become a destructive lifestyle for many people, the Bible is clear that God designed us to refrain from living this way and to work hard saying, "Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones. Learn from their ways and become wise." 

So may you and I indeed learn from the ant today my friend. They are diligent and never lazy. They are never poor and they are never hungry. They work together as a team and their hard work sustains them. May the same be said about us. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that being lazy spiritually is as bad for us as being lazy physically. Help us to take seriously the command to learn from the ways of the ant that we might become wise and actively and daily work to serve You and further your Kingdom. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Establish the works of our hands - Aaron Keys

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5V2_cs8gTIw

Made to be different

"So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them." Genesis 1:27

In an interesting article published last week by Business Insider, Lindsay Crouse reported that 5% of men dropped out of the 2018 Boston Marathon due to the unprecedented cold, windy and rainy weather conditions, compared to just 3.8% of women. That means the dropout rates had increased almost 80% since the 2017 race for men and just 12% for women. Cruse spoke to elite distance coach Steve Magness who offered this explanation, "Women generally seem better able to adjust to their goals in the moment, whereas men will see their race as black or white, succeed or fail, and if it's fail, why keep going?" That is to say, for women, simply finishing the race may be important; for men, winning (or beating their personal best time) may be key. And the implications of this gender difference go beyond marathons, or athletic prowess.

And you know what? In a world that tries to minimize the differences between men and women, there is no denying the fact that we are different. We think differently. We process emotions differently. We make decisions differently. We show love differently. We learn differently and we approach running differently. In fact the Bible is clear that, although "God created mankind in his own image...he created them; male and female." And men and women were not made the same for a reason - we were made to perform different roles and yet complement one another beautifully. 

So let us celebrate those differences today my friend. And then let us praise our Creator for all the ways that we are different but fit so perfectly together. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for making us so uniquely. Help us to remember that while we were made differently, we were all made for the same purpose of bringing you glory in our families, lives and relationships. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Perfect - PhillipaHannah

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SaVw-B30X8Y

Pray for all people

"I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them." 1 Timothy 2:1

As I usually do when I'm not out of town for a race, I joined a group of friends for a run early Saturday morning a few weeks ago. And while many of my running buddies left immediately after the run, two of my dear girlfriends joined me for some stretching. Throughout the course of this cool-down exercise, we discussed the things that were going on in our lives including a concern that was potentially life-changing for one of them. As I listened intently, the urge to pray over this situation right then and right there was overwhelming. "Hey girls," I said, "can I pray with you?" And in the middle of the park, that's exactly what we did.

You know, when it comes to praying for those in need, Paul urges us to "pray for all people" asking "God to help them." He stressed the importance of interceding, or pleading to the Lord on behalf of another person, and giving "thanks for them." And you can bet that he meant anytime and everytime the Holy Spirit prompts us to do so. You see, prayer is our direct and constant lifeline to the Lord and it's the way you and I can and should, at any time, lift our brothers and sisters up when they need it most.

So don't be embarrassed or afraid to pray for someone who is hurting, anxious or afraid my friend. Because as Richard J. Foster wrote, "If we truly love people, we will desire for them far more than it is within our power to give them, and this will lead us to prayer: Intercession is a way of loving others."

Heavenly Father, thank You for the Holy Spirit living inside of us that prompts us to pray for others when they are in need. Thank You for the promise that You will turn your ear to us and hear those prayers. Help us to be those people who lift up our friends, family, communities and leaders in prayer that the whole world would come to know You because of it. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

What if His people prayed - Casting Crowns

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PdUogt0H2fk

Nothing goes unseen

"Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account." Hebrews 4:13 NIV

Several weeks ago, I had the pleasure of running an 80k race that required completing three 15.5 mile loops and then a 5k loop to complete the 49.6 miles. But after having already run the 46.5 miles and feeling the effects of the rising heat index, I began the last 3.1 mile segment that had no timing mat or official standing by when I heard, "There's no one out here. Who will know that you didn't really run the loop? Just turn around as if you did it already and be done with this race," said the voices in my head. "Oh no!" I shouted out loud, putting the devil in his place. "There's no way I'm doing that!" 

Have you ever heard those things too? The voices of the enemy tempting you to compromise and promising you that no one will ever know? Of course. We all have. And it's at those times that you and I need to call the devil out for the liar he is and declare, "It is written 'Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes to whom we must give account.'" And then, knowing full well how true that statement is, base our actions on the knowledge that nothing, and I mean nothing, that we do goes unnoticed by God. 

So may you and I make every attempt to live a life of integrity my friend-no matter who is watching. Doing anything less than that will not only leave us accountable to the Lord for our shortcomings but could very well compromise our witness and our walk with Christ. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that none of our actions, words or thoughts are hidden from You. Help us to live lives of integrity, determined to be honest, moral and upright in private as well as in public knowing that we are ultimately accountable to You for everything we do and say. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

No compromise - Peter Furler

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqZNfWc-8aw

Trust and let it go

"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done." Philippians 4:6 NLT

In an article published by the Washingtonian recently, Chuck Todd, moderator for "Meet the Press", said that he took up running in 2013 after stress pushed him to nearly 200 pounds. Five years later, 30 pounds lighter and still going strong, he said, "I feel like more and more in my job, Washington is stuck in a cul-de-sac—we’re going in circles. In the never-ending dreariness of what Washington feels like, it’s become an escape."

And speaking of wanting to escape, or break free from the worries of this world, did you know that a recent gallup poll showed that 79% of Americans feel stress sometimes or frequently throughout their day? And if stress can be defined as worry caused by a difficult situation, or something that causes this condition, it's easy to see why, in this fast paced world, so many people are experiencing its' effects. But you know what? You and I weren’t created to live that way - which is why the Bible tells us not to "worry about anything" but to "pray about everything." And to then tell God what we need “and thank him for all he has done." In other words...  you and I need to trust God, pray, and let it go.

Need another reason not to worry? Consider the words of John McArthur my friend, "For some reason, we think of doubt and worry as "small" sins. But when a Christian displays unbelief...or an inability to cope with life, he is saying to the world, "My God cannot be trusted," and that kind of disrespect makes one guilty of a fundamental error, the heinous sin of dishonoring God. That is no small sin."

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that we have no need to worry about anything when we pray about everything. Knowing that worry is a sign that we don't trust You, help us to dig into your Word every time we feel anxious to remind ourselves that You are the same God yesterday, today and forever that that Your promises are always true. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Right on time - Aaron Cole
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHNPWDZJjhc

Pass it on

"We will not hide these truths from our children; we will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the LORD, about his power and his mighty wonders." Psalm 78:4 NLT

Early yesterday morning I had the pleasure of joining some friends for a 24.2 mile relay to celebrate Independence Day and the 242nd birthday of the United States. While proudly holding high and carrying the American flag, the first runner began their journey at 6 am and traveled a mile until they passed it on to the next runner, with the process continuing until the race was over and the flag reached its' final destination in downtown Waynesville, MO at the Pulaski County Courthouse, where it will proudly be displayed on the flagpole out front. 

And you know, when it became my turn and I accepted the flag, carried it for a while and then passed it on, I couldn't help but think how our faith works the same way. You see, in a sense, every believer is in a relay race, carrying the baton of faith and the knowledge of the Lord and of his Word until it's time to pass it on the next generation-and they in turn to the next, and the next and so on until we all reach our final destination. The psalmist clearly understood this and so wrote, "we will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the Lord, about his power and mighty wonders." 

So I wonder, are you in the race today? Are you actively pursing a close relationship with the Lord, living a life worthy of being called a follower, so that one day you can pass the baton of faith on to your children and/or the next generation? I certainly hope so my friend. Because it is the job of each and every Christian to do so.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that the things we do today affect future generations and that as Christians we have an obligation to do everything in our power to ensure those people we leave behind know of Your goodness, grace and mercy. Help us to be faithful in passing on our faith Lord that the cycle might never end. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

For future generation - 4Him
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_T9d9vqbZY

True Independence

"Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." 2 Corinthians 3:17

While driving home from work yesterday evening, I was doing what many other runners around our great nation were doing, I was thinking about the run I had planned in the morning with friends to celebrate Independence Day. And while lost in thought, I glanced to the side just in time to read a Church billboard that said, "TRUE INDEPENDENCE IS DEPENDENCE ON JESUS." Hmmm, I thought. What does that really mean?

Well, if independence can be defined as the state of showing a desire for freedom, and freedom defined as liberation from slavery, I'd say it means that true independence can only result from being released from the chains of bondage. And that release can only come from our dependence, or our putting our complete reliance, confidence and trust in Jesus. You see, it's only when you and I truly believe that God loves, accepts and forgives us, that we are free from the burden of sin and free to live for Him knowing that, "the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." 

So let us, you and I, celebrate our true independence today by singing praises to the Lord my friend. Praises arising from grateful hearts that can't help but declare, "Free at last, He has ransomed me. His grace runs deep. While I was a slave to sin, Jesus died for me. Yes He died for me. Who the Son sets free, oh is free indeed. I’m a child of God, yes I am."

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that true independence and freedom comes from knowing who we are in You and knowing that You have released us from the chains of sin and condemnation to live as sons and daughters of the King. May this knowledge refresh our hearts today as we celebrate what it truly means to be free. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Who You Say I am - Hillsong

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6HBSIaEZ5o

Follow Me

"“Come, follow Me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” And at once they left their nets and followed Him." Matthew 4:19,20 BSB

Have you ever wanted to be in a major movie? Well now's your chance. The producers of the upcoming Wonder Woman 2 film are looking for runners, men and women of all ethnicities, in the Arlington, Virginia, area to play joggers. No previous acting experience is required, they say, but to qualify you must be able to "jog over and over multiple times" and be available for costume fitting and filming on Saturday, July 7. 

You know, when it comes to finding people to serve, did you know that Jesus doesn't always call those who are qualified, or those who are fitted (as by training or experience) for a given purpose? Consider Peter and Andrew. They were two fishermen simply going about their work, casting a net into the lake, when they heard the words, "Come follow Me and I will make you fishers of men." They weren't qualified for ministry in the eyes of the world. They had no formal training and were laborers by trade. But Jesus could use them! Why? Because they were obedient and, "at once" and without hesitation, "left their nets and followed Him."

So if you think you can't be used my friend, consider the words of Max Lucado, "God doesn’t call the qualified, he qualifies the called. God stampeded the first-century society with swaybacks, not thoroughbreds! Their collars were blue, their hands were calloused, and there is no evidence that Jesus chose them because they were smarter or nicer than the guy next door. The one thing they had going for them was a willingness to take a step when Jesus said, “Follow me.”

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that You don't call the qualified but the obedient and that you then equip them with every tool needed to fulfill that calling. Help us to be so confident of that, that we dare to step out to do great things and be the fishers of men You have called each and every one of us to be. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Confidence - Sanctus Real

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuZPOVFcFJ4

Volunteers needed

Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.  Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field." Matthew 9:37,38

On Saturday, John Dell of the Winston-Salem Journal wrote, "The beauty of the Ultimate Runner is the wide range of ages competing at Hanes Park. It’s not every day that in the same heat an 8-year-old and a 71-year-old can battle back and forth in the various events." And with 114 runners participating in the 32nd year of this competition, it appeared that fun was had by all. But you know what? This event, and many more like it, could never have taken place without the help of volunteers. Warren Allen, one of the longtime Twin City Track and Field Club volunteers who helped to make the event a success said, "It’s great to see the number of volunteers out here helping."

And you know, just as a sporting event cannot operate without volunteers, or people who voluntarily offer themselves for a service or undertaking, the Church cannot reach the lost without people who are willing to offer themselves to do the work. Jesus clearly explained that to the disciples when He said, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few." You see, many people are in need of Christ and ready to give their lives to Him right now if only someone would show them how. Which is why Jesus gave us the command to "ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field."

And while you and I should most definitely be praying that Christians everywhere would heed the call to step up to evangelize, we should also be asking ourselves these questions. “Where does God want me to go and what does God want me to do?"

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that the fields are ripe with people that are searching for You. Help us to be those followers that would freely go out into the "harvest field" to share the Good News with others. Help us to feel a sense of urgency to reach the lost Lord. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Send me - Planetshakers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XN-tdsHejB0