Always a team effort

"Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed." Ecclesiastes 4:9 NLT

Harvard runner Kieran Tuntivate is one tough runner. Upon losing his shoe during the 3k race at the Ivy League Indoor Championships on Saturday after only 400 meters, he kept on running, winning the race in 8:12.72. And while running for eight minutes without a shoe might sound easy, consider that the surface of the track was so rough that it rubbed large chunks of skin off his foot and toes as he did it. With that in mind, can you believe Kieran went on to run and win the 5k race the very next day? And while he could most definitely have taken all the glory for these victories for himself, Kieran said, "I couldn't have done it without my teammates. They paced me in the 3k, and in the 5k, they helped me set a pace, because if we were changing paces, that would have hurt my foot." 

Don't you just love that? In a world where an individual's success is highly celebrated, people forget that great things are rarely achieved without the help of others and that it's almost always a team effort. In fact, when talking about the value of a team, John Maxwell said, "Nothing of significance was ever achieved by an individual acting alone. Look below the surface and you will find that all seemingly solo acts are really team efforts."

So let us not forget that "two people are better off than one" my friend. And let us never forget to share the credit for our successes with those who helped to make them happen. But most importantly, let us never fail to give God the glory for all of it. For He is the one that truly makes our successes happen. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that we can accomplish more when we work together as a team. Help us to be those team members that are willing to work behind the scenes with no recognition for the good of the whole team and to glorify your Name. And most of all Lord, let us never keep the glory for ourselves that is rightfully Yours. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Glory to God - Fee

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kA4-ioUmYjo

Be the one God uses

"Jonathan went to find David and encouraged him to stay strong in his faith in God." 1 Samuel 23:16 NLT

After a rough week and an even rougher battle with a mean stomach virus over the weekend, I was feeling drained physically, emotionally and spiritually as I struggled to get through my early morning run Monday. Realizing I just didn't have the strength to do it, much less make it through the busy day ahead of me, I slowed down to a walk and tried to hold back the tears that were welling up inside. At that very moment, as I began praying for strength and comfort, my phone alerted me to a text message, and looking down I saw this... "Thinking of you this morning. Prayers my friend!" Oh Lord! You love me so much and You are so very good to show it!

And you know what? The Lord loves each and every one of us and will go to great lengths to show it, many times using others to tell us so. Consider the story of David who was so loved by the Father that he was considered a man after God's own heart. When David was being relentlessly pursued by Saul and in desperate need of encouragement, the Bible tells us that "Jonathan went to find David and encouraged him to stay strong in his faith in God." I have no doubt those words restored David's spirit and gave Him the strength to press on. 

So today, if you feel the Spirit nudging you to pick up the phone and call someone, do it my friend. If you feel led to send a text or email, send it. And if you feel prompted to personally go and encourage someone to stay strong in the faith, go! You might very well be the person God is using to deliver His message. And you can be sure that your words will bless the one that receives them. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that You love us so very much. So much, in fact, that You will do whatever it takes for us to know it at just the right time. May we be those people who don't hesitate to encourage one another any time You place it on our hearts, knowing the words you prompt us to speak could make all the difference in someone's day. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Prize worth fighting for - Jamie Kimett

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGbQ90kYZrI

True comfort

"All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort." 2 Corinthians 1:3 NLT

"I've been obese since I was 6 years old," Amanda Valentine told POPSUGAR. Now 36, she said, "I knew nothing about nutrition for most of my life, and I'm an emotional binge-eater. I eat to celebrate, I eat when I'm upset, I eat when I'm stressed . . . I basically use food to comfort me in all situations." The situation was it its' worst in 2011, Amanda recalled, when she was looking to food for comfort so often that she would hit several drive-thrus on the way home and then eat everything so there would be no evidence. 

But you know Amanda isn't alone. There are millions of people everyday that look to food for comfort. In fact, Binge Eating Disorder is the most common eating disorder in the United States and is seen among all age groups, genders, races, and income levels. Which makes a person wonder why? The truth is this... apart from God, a person will never find true and lasting comfort in any “thing” no matter how much of it they consume. He is the only unchanging consolation in times of hurt, trouble or worry and the only faithful giver of strength and hope in times of grief, sorrow and despair. He is the only solid rock on which you and I can always stand. 

So if you're in need of comfort today my friend, don't look anywhere but up. Because it's only there that you will find the true and lasting freedom from the pains, burdens and distresses of this world that your heart so long desires. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that true comfort can only come from You. Unlike the world, You never change and You are always by our side. Help us to look to You rather than the things of this world to calm our fears, ease our pain and strengthen us to press on in the midst of tough times. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

I look to You - Selah

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gP2IzErAQPs

If only

"'Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past." Isaiah 43:18 NIV

In perhaps the most anticipated 2019 USATF event of the weekend, Shelby Houlihan narrowly lost the 1-mile race to Colleen Quigley on Saturday. Not one to dwell on the past though, Houlihan came back with a vengeance the next day to win the 2-mile race and claim her ninth national title in a world lead time of 9:31.38. Speaking of her victory on the heels of her disappointing runner-up finish in the mile, Houlihan said, "I don’t like to lose, and that was a rough one to lose. But I woke up this morning and thought, ‘new day, new race.’ My goal was to come into this race with a positive attitude.”

And you know, when it comes to keeping a positive attitude, there are two words that will steal our hopeful way of thinking every time... if only. You see, if you and I choose to dwell on the "if only's" in life - if only I had done this differently, if only I hadn't done that, if only I had gone back to school, if only I hadn't chosen that path - we will be unable to look ahead and move forward to the better things God has in store for us. Think about it. If Shelby had been caught up in the thoughts of "if only" I had moved quicker or "if only" I had kicked a little more at the end, she would not have had the confident attitude that brought her an even greater victory the next day. 

So I don't know what your "if only" is today my friend, but I do know this. There's a reason the Bible commands us to "forget the former things."  It's because God always has something better ahead for us than anything we have left behind - but if you and I "dwell on the past," we will miss it. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that dwelling on things we can't change is of no value to us and only robs us of the time and energy we can place into moving forward. Help us to look up to You when things don't go as planned that we might forego the urge to look back and stay focused on what's ahead. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Turbo Style - Beckah Shae
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QeML00xblUM

Run Rage

"A man's discretion makes him slow to anger, And it is his glory to overlook a transgression." Proverbs 19:11

Chris Coon, a pastor at Urban Village Church in Chicago, admitted to Runners World Magazine that when the collar comes off and the running shorts go on, he turns into a different person. An angry one. Some of the things that bother him the most? Poor race organization and cars who don't yield the right of way. Coon went on to admit, "I've flipped the bird at many a driver over the years." Not very becoming behavior is it? Unfortunately these types of anger outbursts have become so common for runners that the term Run Rage is being used to describe the phenomena.

And while this conduct may be tolerated and practiced by many, the Bible tells us that it's just not acceptable for a Christian. In fact, we are told that a wise person controls their temper and earns respect by overlooking wrongdoings. Can you imagine anyone wanting to follow or emulate a Christian who explodes over receiving the wrong shirt size at packet pickup or yells insults at a volunteer that doesn't direct the runners correctly at turns? Of course not.

And while it would be foolish to think that you and I will never get angry, it would be wise to remember that when we do, controlling our tongue is always the best way to handle it. And by doing so, may we lead others to the Father by the actions we display on and off the racecourse.

Heavenly Father, thank you for promising to help us overcome the urge to sin by lashing out at other people. Help us to, by your strength, overlook things that were not done out of spite but to forgive and be a good example to others that they might look to the source of our peace. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Anger Management - Lecrae
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jSHfxMYTqzc

He is our Rescuer

"'You came to my rescue, Lord, and saved my life." Lamentations 3:58 GNTA

Seven miles into the Chombueng marathon in Thailand on January 20, Khemjoir Klongsanun said she saw runners dodging a puppy. Noticing there were no houses or people in the area, she stopped to check on the little bundle of fur. Sensing the dog was either lost or abandoned, Khemjoir made the decision to rescue the pup and ran the next 19 miles with the puppy in her arms. “Running almost 20 miles carrying a dog was truly a challenge,"she said. "It was two times more tiring than a normal marathon but I did it anyway just because he is adorable.” And not only did Klongsanun rescue the puppy, she brought him home and made him part of her family. How's that for a happy ending?

And you know, there was a time in most of our lives when we were lost and maybe even feeling abandoned too. The prophet Jeremiah certainly felt that way. In fact, at one point in his ministry he was even thrown into an empty cistern and left to die. And as anguished and alone as the prophet may have felt, God never abandoned him. He came to his rescue and saved his life just as He wants to do for each and every believer that calls out to Him.

But guess what? God not only wants to rescue us from our sinful lives but wants to make us part of His family by adopting us as His very own sons and daughters. We need only repent and accept Him as Lord of our lives. How's that for a happy ending?

Heavenly Father, thank You for loving us despite the many ways we disobey, rebel and turn our backs on You. Lord if there is anyone reading this that is feeling beyond redemption, I pray that today is the day they finally understand that no one has sinned so bad that You won't welcome them back. May they then choose to accept you as Lord of their life, be forgiven and allow You to rescue them. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Rescuer - Rend Collective

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6jAtmkjLYF4

Be an encourager

“Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the presence of all Israel, "Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the LORD swore to their ancestors to give them, and you must divide it among them as their inheritance.” Deuteronomy 31:7 NIV

With one mile left to go in the marathon, I saw him... the person I knew I was there to speak to. “Hey there! You’re almost done! Just keep stepping. You can do this!” The struggling young man smiled at the words of encouragement and readily welcomed my offer to run the last bit of the 26.2 mile race with him. And as we slowly made our way toward the finish line, I learned that Sergio was only nineteen-years-old, running his first marathon, and had a fierce determination to complete what he had started. Feeling led by the Spirit, I further encouraged the young man to apply the same grit he was now showing to accomplishing his life goals. Immediately after crossing the finish line, Sergio hugged me and said that he would never forget the words I later added, “Commit everything you do to the Lord young man and He will use you to do even greater things than finishing this race.”

And truly, sometimes all it takes for a person to succeed in the midst of pain, doubt or obstacles is an encouraging word from someone else. Moses undoubtedly understood this, and encouraged young Joshua to “be strong and courageous” so that he could assume the role of leading the people into the promised land as God had chosen him to do. Surely the task of shepherding such a large crowd of tired and discouraged Israelites must have seemed huge to Joshua, but the words of affirmation coming from this man of God gave Joshua the strength and courage he needed to get the job done.

So be looking for ways and opportunities to lift someone up my friend. Especially if you feel the Spirit’s prompting to do so. Your words could very well make all the difference in someone’s life today and in the future.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that there are many struggling and hurting people in our world. People that may not feel as if they can take another step. Help us to be encouragers to these people and to remind them that they are warriors and able to do all things through Your mighty strength. It’s in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Warrior - Steven Curtis Chapman

http://youtu.be/GYEgOh_b-Co

Love the law

“Seven times a day I praise you for your righteous laws. Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.” Psalm 119:164,165 NIV 

Sure. I get it. In a world full of seemingly ordinary people, many of us want to be different and stand out. Which is why it didn’t surprise me to see several runners with their bibs pinned to the back of their shirts recently, rather than on the front as the race rules clearly state they should be placed. And while they will no doubt be issued an official finishing time as the timing chip located on the bib will still register, they will not be easily located in the photos nor be able to easily dispute a timing error or any cheating claim that might come against them, proving that it certainly pays to follow the rules. 

And you know, when it comes to following rules and laws, many people believe God gave us the Ten Commandments to keep us from having fun and enjoying life. But quite the opposite is true as David came to understand. You see, after David broke the rules by committing adultery with Bathsheba and then having her husband killed to hide the affair, he soon suffered the dire and long-lasting consequences for his actions - and quickly learned that breaking God’s laws only leads to heartbreak, guilt and separation from the Father. This realization prompted David to repent and write, “I praise you for your righteous laws. Great peace have those who love your law...” David came to love the law because he discovered it wasn’t a burden but his safeguard!

Perhaps, like David, you have broken the rules and are experiencing the consequences of your decisions today as well? If that’s you my friend, I have good news! It’s never too late to repent and experience the “great peace” that comes from a restored relationship with the Lord. Simply ask for forgiveness and then commit yourself to His “righteous ways.”

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that your laws are for our safety and not to hold us back from enjoying life. Help us to understand that obeying Your commands keeps us from experiencing the dreadful consequences that sin always creates. It’s in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Change this heart - Sidewalk Prophets
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9YTZq37OpMw

A lifetime student

“But be always growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To Him be all glory, both now and to the day of Eternity!” 2 Peter 3:18 WNT

Meb Keflezighi, who has run 26 marathons in 15 years, winning New York, Boston and an Olympic silver medal, said he decided to “be a student of the sport” very early on in his career. Meb said that by studying what he learned from one race to the next, he acquired the physical preparation and mental fortitude necessary to become one of the world’s best marathoners and a four-time Olympian. Of his desire to never stop learning, Meb, a refugee from Eritrea, who moved to the United States with his parents and siblings in 1987, said, “My parents taught me that the key to life is education.”

And this desire to never stop learning is the same aspiration that Peter believed all followers should share. You see Peter clearly understood that remaining a student of the Gospel and “always growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord” was the key to the success of our Christian walk. He knew that the better you and I knew the Lord, the better our chances were of not being led astray. And of course Peter also knew that there was always room for growth, no matter how mature a Christian might be. 

So may you and I make the decision to “be a student” of the Word that we might continue to grow in the “grace and knowledge of our Lord,” declaring to all those around us,”To Him be all glory both now and to the day of eternity!”

Heavenly Father, thank You the reminder that a successful and faithful Christian walk requires ongoing training, study and meditation. Help us to make time for this each and every day that we would reap the benefits of being lifetime students of the living and breathing Word of God. It’s in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Living Word - Jeremy Camp

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p6-KKBxaFJk&list=PLh_zYS6MYQNnMbVSTiEgdYFoMwhVs2yz4

Let your joy overflow

“We were filled with laughter, and we sang for joy. And the other nations said, "What amazing things the LORD has done for them.’” Psalm 126:2 NLT

As my family and I were driving to Texas yesterday for the 2019 El Paso Marathon, I asked my son, Luke, who was registered to run the half-marathon, “Are you sure you don’t want to run the full with me again?” “Oh no,” he replied laughing. “I’m good.” I smiled as I thought back to 2017. He and I were approaching mile 17 of the marathon when he stopped to walk and said, “You make this look so easy Mom because you’re always smiling and laughing. It’s not that easy!” To which I replied, “I know son. But if I went around with a frown on my face and complaining, no one would want what I have.” 

And just what do I have you might wonder? The joy of the Lord my friend. The inexpressible, uncontainable, unshakeable joy of the Lord. A joy that has the power to fill me with laughter no matter where I am or what I might be going through. A joy that gives me the strength to push through when times are hard. And it’s this unexplainable source of delight that compels me to proclaim the “amazing things the Lord has done” for me. You see, not only did Jesus forgive me of my sins, but He gave me a new life, a new purpose and has promised to be with me, even to the end of the age. 

And you know what? Each and every believer has this same cause for overwhelming joy. We have all been forgiven and given a new life. Do you realize how “amazing” that is?? So smile today my friend. Laugh for no reason that others might see your joy and come to know “the amazing things the Lord” has done for you and can do for them too. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the joy Your presence has placed within every believer. May this joy overflow in us that others might feel Your love, want this same joy for themselves, and accept you as Lord and Savior of their lives. It’s in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Joy - Planetshakers

https://youtu.be/MoyHjjHTO14

In His time

"Beloved, do not let this one thing escape your notice: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day." 2 Peter 3:8 BSB

Training for a 100-mile race takes a lot of time and energy. Add in all of life's other obligations and a person can soon feel overwhelmed and in need of some rest. Such was the case with me recently. I was tired to the point of complete exhaustion and overly anxious about getting everything ready in time to head out of town for a race. Oh Lord," I prayed silently. "I really need an extra day off." And you know what? Not even five minutes later, a coworker came by my office and said, "Now remember we get Tuesday off for Lincoln's birthday." To say I was all smiles was an understatement. 

And while I love when God answers my prayers immediately, many times He doesn't. My prayer for the perfect job at the perfect time took nearly two years until it was answered and I can't even recall how many years I prayed to be part of a running ministry that would reach others before the Frog Fitness Group came to be. The point is this... "with the Lord a day is like a thousand years and a thousand years are like a day." God knows exactly when our prayers need to be answered and He works in His time, not ours. 

So if you've been praying for something or someone for what seems like an eternity, take heart and don't give up my friend! Praise the Lord while you wait on His perfect timing and find peace knowing God most definitely hears the cries of His "beloved." 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that You know exactly when our prayers need to be answered. And while we may not understand the hesitation sometimes. help us to not give up on the people or situations we are praying over. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

While I'm waiting - Travis Greene

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_6pQj3UOT0

Let your words be true

"And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching." Titus 2:7 NLT

"Alright you guys, it's time to get running!" These were the words I spoke to the group of elementary children I had the blessing of coaching as part of an after-school program through the local health department where I work. Previous to that though, we had discussed the benefits of running and how anyone with enough determination and discipline could complete a marathon or even an ultra marathon. And to drive that point home, I shared with them some of the long races I, myself, had been blessed to complete. It's no wonder then that midway through the run, one of these little ones came up to me and said, "Hey coach. Why don't you run a few laps with us?" Knowing she was testing me to see if what I said was true, I smiled and took off running with her.

And you know, while the words of our testimony can be powerful, they will have very little impact on the world if the way we live our lives doesn't reflect them. Paul certainly understood this and so advised young Timothy to follow Jesus so closely that his life would be "an example" to others - letting everything he did "reflect the integrity and seriousness of" his teaching. In other words, if Timothy wanted "them" to listen to and believe what he said, he would have to earn the right to be heard by his actions. 

So in a world where many people claim to know Jesus with their lips but deny Him by their lifestyle, may we be "an example" of what it truly means to love, honor and follow Jesus. May our actions and speech "reflect" Jesus' love to others that they might be drawn to the Cross because of it. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that people are always watching to see if we live out the things we say. Knowing that our lifestyle has the power to lead people to or away from you then, help us to be people of integrity and honor. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Life song - Casting Crowns

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gnf1xczuOrA

A full life

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7 NIV

Competitor RUNNING recently published an article titled, "8 secrets of lifetime runners" in which they revealed the results of a survey that gathered information from more than 50 runners over the age of 60 who have been running for at least 30 years. And the results? Lifetime runners persist through adaptation, acceptance, continuing to race, setting reasonable goals, building friendships and simply refusing to give up. In describing that refusal to give up, Sid Howard, 79, who has held masters records on the track, says he ain’t getting any quicker, but he’s staying strong, particularly in spirit. He hopes to still be racing at 100 and beyond. “My last race will finish at the casket. I’m going to jump in, close the top, and know I have lived a full life.”

Wow! Don't you love his attitude? Coincidentally, this is the same settled way of thinking the apostle Paul had. He was determined to serve the Lord through hardships and trials, refusing to ever give up. Even as he grew older in years, his passion and determination never wavered and he knew what it meant to live a full life. It was living for Christ each and every day - giving his whole being to the pursuit of proclaiming the Gospel. And it was this way of living that led Paul, as he was approaching that final finish line, to say "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 

And you know, one day each and every one of us will run that last race and our days will be over. There will be no second chances. We will have either lived a full life serving Jesus and leading others to the Cross or we will have merely existed. I don't know about you my friend but I want that full life. When my time has come, I want to be able to say, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith," 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that our days on earth are short. Help us to develop that settled way of thinking that serving You with our whole heart and life is the only way to live. And then let us live with purpose so that we too can say "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 

Happy Running!!!

Til the day I die - Toby Mac

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

Spiritual leadership is serious

"My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I will reject you from serving as my priest. Since you have forgotten the law of your God, I will also forget your sons." Hosea 4:6 CSB

With all of the information out there on the web, on television, on radio ads, and in magazines linking good nutrition and a healthy weight to heart health, would you believe that one in five adults (that survey included runners too) still thinks their diet has nothing to do with protecting their ticker? "That's a problem because that knowledge gap makes it more difficult for people to grasp how much their own habits are increasing their health risks," said Steven Nissen, M.D. and chair of cardiovascular medicine at Cleveland Clinic. 

And while a person's lack of knowledge about what they should and shouldn't eat might certainly shorten their lifespan, the Bible tells us that God's "people are destroyed for lack of knowledge." You see, in Hosea's time, Israel's priests were participating in idolatry and immorality - and in doing so, were keeping the people from knowing God. These so-called spiritual leaders, who the people looked to for guidance and instruction, not only failed to teach God's laws but failed to follow the laws themselves, leading the people down a path of destruction with them. 

And you know, as the story clearly shows, spiritual leadership is not something to be taken lightly. Those called to teach and guide others can easily lead them closer to Christ or lead them away by their words or actions. So if you are in a position to lead people today, take the job seriously my friend. Let no one you know perish "for lack of knowledge." 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that those in leadership roles, whether it be teaching a Sunday school class, leading a Bible study or mentoring younger Christians, are held to a higher standard. Help us to be people that seek to know and follow Your commands first that we might lead others to do the same. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Seek First - Housefires

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

Our Church

"All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord's Supper), and to prayer." Acts 2:42 NLT

Anxiously looking forward to my morning run to prepare myself for worship yesterday, I rose early to read my Bible before heading out the door. "Oh no," I thought to myself before even stepping off the porch. "There's ice everywhere! Not only will I have to witness the sunrise from inside on the treadmill but I might not be able to make it to church." And just the thought of not being able to spend time with my church family nearly brought me to tears! Thankfully though, the temperatures rose quickly enough for the roads to clear in time for my daughter and me to make it to the second service. 

And while many people might have welcomed the chance to stay home, I always welcome (and crave) the chance to be with fellow believers. You see, I know these meetings with like-minded individuals are absolutely essential in my walk with Christ. In fact, it's crucial for every believer to "devote themselves" to, or steadfastly and consistently continue, meeting for instruction in the Word "and to fellowship." It's the very thing that allows you and I to form bonds with other Christians who will help us to stay devout, passionate, purposeful and committed to following the Lord. We absolutely need these relationships!

So resist the urge to forego these times of teaching, fellowship, sharing in meals, and prayer with fellow believers my friend. You will soon find that the more you associate with people who share your love for Christ, the more you will devote yourself to these meetings and so reap the benefits of gained knowledge, stronger faith, and a deeper love for the Lord and one another. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for my Church family. Throughout the years, they have served to teach, encourage and motivate me to grow closer to You and to fulfill the calling you have placed in my heart. Help us to truly realize the power that comes from being a body of believers and to make every attempt to meet together as often as possible. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Our Church - Time Neufeld

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7n3MbbLmeA

He hears our every word

"But I tell you that men will give an account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.'" Matthew 12:36,37 BSB

While speaking to the Couch to 5k class I have the blessing of teaching every week, I educated the runners about the type of clothing necessary to be able to run in the cold and specifically named a brand of traction cleats that could be slipped over their running shoes to navigate slippery winter surfaces. I then had a private conversation with one of the ladies about energy gels and the purpose they serve. But it seems someone else may have been listening as later that night she sent me a message saying that the very two things I had talked about by name appeared on her Facebook feed as advertisements. Coincidence?

And while you and I might be alarmed at the idea that someone could be listening to our conversations through our cell phones, shouldn’t we be more alarmed knowing that God is listening to everything we say? And He is not only listening by coincidence my friend, He hears everything and will hold us accountable "for every careless word" we speak. That means you and I will be judged for every syllable ever uttered or written, in private or in public, that was hostile towards Christ or was hurtful or harmful to someone else. 

So knowing that, may you and I vow to say and write only things that will glorify our Savior and edify our neighbor. May we then be slow to speak, quick to listen and ever conscious that our words have the power to acquit or condemn us. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that no word we ever express goes unheard by You. Help us to be people that speak only kind and uplifting words that we might bring glory to your Name and lead others to the foot of the Cross by our speech. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Speak life - Toby Mac

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqlEyoWu8c8

No matter what happens

"I will praise the Lord no matter what happens. I will constantly speak of his glories and grace. I will boast of all his kindness to me." Psalm 34:1 TLB

“Lord, I love you beyond words! I hope someone was saved tonight through all circumstances. May you shine bright through it all. For your honor, your glory and your praise.” Believe it or not, these were the words tweeted by Rams' Wide Receiver Brandin Cooks after losing the Superbowl to the Patriots. And I have no doubt that, by these words of praise in a time when most people would be upset or angry, Cook, a devout Christian who has used Twitter all season to proclaim his faith in Jesus, someone was inspired to look at this "Jesus" who has the power to so radically change hearts, perspectives and attitudes. 

Lord, I love you beyond words and "I will praise the Lord no matter what happens..." Can you just imagine if that were the response of every believer in the good times and in the bad? In the wins and in the losses? It would most certainly make people wonder where our constant source of happiness comes from, wouldn’t it? It would also give us an opportunity to tell the lost how our joy doesn't come from what happens around us but from the One who is in us - the One who never changes. 

So be bold my friend. In a world that desperately needs Jesus, publicly "praise the Lord no matter what happens... speak of his glories and grace" to everyone you know and boast of God's kindness whenever and wherever you can so that others might choose to seek Him because of it. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for loving us the way You do and for the joy You provide in the midst of loss, heartache and pain. May we be fearless and undaunted in sharing our love for You with others that they might be inspired to seek this same joy and peace in all circumstances that we have. May our lives be lived for your glory. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Build my life - Pat Barrett

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZW4_8_zCBE

Continue the work

"So we continued the work with half the men holding spears, from the first light of dawn till the stars came out. At that time I also said to the people, “Have every man and his helper stay inside Jerusalem at night, so they can serve us as guards by night and as workers by day.'" Nehemiah 4:21,22 NIV

While most outdoor enthusiasts were praying for warmer temperatures last week, the runners and bikers participating in the Arrowhead 135 ultramarathon, which is purposely held at the coldest time of the year, embraced the -30 degree temperatures as they traversed the roughly 135 miles along the Arrowhead State Trail. “I was out there for 21 hours,” Don Gabrielson, who fat biked this year’s event, told Runner’s World. “I did get on the edge of hypothermia at the end, but it always amazes me how much heat your body produces. Unless you stop. You can’t stop, or at least not stop for long.”

And you know, Gabrielson is right. If you and I want to complete any hard task, we can't stop and we can't give up. Nehemiah certainly understood this as he embarked on the arduous task of rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem. Everywhere he turned he was faced with obstacles and significant enemy opposition. And through it all, Nehemiah prayed and kept working - even saying to the people, "Have every man and his helper stay inside Jerusalem at night, so they can serve as guards by night and as workers by day." And guess what? Because of his resolute resolve to not give up and his God given ability to inspire others to adopt the same attitude, the wall was completed in 52 days! How's that for staying power? 

So if you're feeling weary, worn-out and unable to complete the task God has called you to today, don't give up my friend. Keep praying and keep working, knowing your labor will be rewarded. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the faithful followers who have gone before us to serve as examples that anything is possible if we would only keep the faith and refuse to give up. Help us to be people like them and cultivate resolute resolve and staying power. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Move keep walking - Toby Mac
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQpvzX4chmA

Remember to say thank You

"I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service." 1 Timothy 1:12 NIV

On January 28, Camille Herron, one of the most accomplished ultrarunners in history, was on her way to work in Oklahoma City when she was involved in an accident that left her trapped inside her car hanging upside down, afraid she might suffocate to death. Thankfully though, she was quickly rescued and suffered no major injuries. After this brush with death though, Herron claimed to be even more appreciative for her health and said, "I feel like I dodged a bullet. I’ve had accidents on trail races, but to have a non-running type of accident, I feel very blessed with the way things went and the way that I’m able to come away with it..."

And while near-death experiences certainly have a way of making us more appreciative of the things we have, shouldn't you and I be thanking God every day for our blessings? Shouldn't we, like Paul in his letter to Timothy, be taking the time to say, "I thank Jesus Christ our Lord..." and then name those things one by one that we are grateful for? Of course we should! And I’ll start... I thank you Jesus for my health. I thank You for my home, my job, my friends, and my family. I thank You for allowing me to serve You. I thank You for my salvation and I thank You for the many other ways You bless me each day. 

So let us not wait for a brush with death to say thank You to our Lord and Savior and the Giver of all the good things we have in this life. Let us thank Him today and let us start right now. 

Heavenly Father, I am thankful that You allowed me to see another sunrise. Not only does that mean that I have another day to serve You but I have another day to sing your praises and plant seeds of love and encouragement in this world. Until my dying day Lord, let me live with thankfulness in my heart and words of praise on my lips. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Thank You - 33 Miles

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tD1H29Ps8l8

Do not put out the fire

"Do not put out the Spirit's fire." 1 Thessalonians 5:19 ISV

The standard running rule of increasing distance by no more than ten percent each week is a guideline I strongly encourage all of the runners I coach to follow. And it's not because I want to hold them back from their dream to be able to run farther but to keep them from getting injured. So when one of the ladies in the Thursday night running group I'm blessed to teach at our local health department went from doing her longest run ever of three miles to four miles within a matter of days, I had to remind her to slow down. "You're right about doing too much," she later said. "I'm feeling it. But I was having a Rocky moment."

And you know, while many times you and I might have to sprinkle a little water on someone's fire, or enthusiasm, to keep them from getting hurt, we should never extinguish someone's passion to serve the Lord. You see, when a person has been given a dream or a divine assignment by the Holy Spirit and is on fire to complete it, you and I can sometimes smother that flame by casting doubt, fear or any other negative emotion as to why that person might not be worthy of the task or capable of accomplishing it. 

So today, let us be people on fire for Jesus - people that "do not put out the Spirit's fire" either in our own lives or in the lives of others. But let us be people that heed the Spirit's prompting, encouraging others to do the same. Let us be people who fan the flames rather than put them out!

Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us your Spirit so that your will would be made known. Help us to be people that listen for that instruction and then act upon it, encouraging others to do the same. And no matter how impossible the calling You have placed on our lives or the lives of others might seem, help us to remember that Your power in us can accomplish anything. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus, Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Impossible - Building 429

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zegqjuz4Cro