Trust with ALL your heart

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding." Proverbs 3:5 NLT

Going into the Prairie Spirit Trail 100-mile race Saturday, I didn't know what to expect. My training had not gone as planned and the hip pain I had begun experiencing left me deeply concerned. And although I knew without a doubt that God was calling me to be there, I threw up my hands in despair just days before and shouted, "Why God? I just don't understand!" and nearly made the decision to stay home. Oh was I glad I didn't though!! You see, not only had God opened the door for me to say the pre-race prayer, He opened many more doors to share His love with others both on and off the course that day - all opportunities I would have missed had I given up. 

And you know, while I am fully aware that God could have healed me in an instant and allowed me to complete the 100 miles, I am also aware that His ways are not my ways - and that His plans are always better than mine. And His plan for me that day was to give me just enough strength to make it 33 miles and declare His praises to all those around me in spite of my inability to understand the reason why. His plan was for me to surrender my will and to trust Him with all my heart. You see, I’ve learned that it's only when you and I totally trust that God's plans are better than ours that we can forego the human need to understand those plans and allow ourselves to be used as He sees fit.  

So if you're feeling discouraged today, don't despair my friend. Forget trying to figure out why God is allowing something to happen. Instead trust in Him with all your heart, knowing that His plans are always good, always perfect and always what's best for us.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me that I am your servant. I was bought at a price and my life is not my own. As such, I pray that I, and everyone reading this, would make the decision to stop trying to understand Your ways and to simply accept them - trusting with all our hearts that your plans are better than our own. And then help us Lord to be joyful in any situation we are in that we might be used to do Your good and perfect will. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Trust in You

Welcome them all

"But the crowds found out where he was going, and they followed him. He welcomed them and taught them about the Kingdom of God, and he healed those who were sick." Luke 9:11 NLT

Walking through the doors of the Hope Anthem Church Sunday, I didn't know what to expect. My friend and I had never been to this house of worship in Ottawa, Kansas before and had only packed running attire since we hadn't expected to be done with the race that brought us here in time for Sunday service. But from the moment we arrived, clad in our athletic tights, running shoes, knotty buns, and race shirts, we were welcomed. "We're glad you could join us," were the words we heard upon arriving and "We hope you'll come back," were the words we heard upon leaving. Wow. Shouldn't all churches be this welcoming? Of course they should. 

Unfortunately though, that's not always the case. You see, whether you and I want to believe it or not, church is not always a welcoming place. Especially for those who don't look or act like the rest of the congregation. Newcomers might feel looked down upon because of the way they dress or shunned for being a visitor and made to feel out of place. But you know what? That's not the way Jesus intended church to be. Jesus expected us to follow His example and to "welcome" all who are looking to follow Him so they can be taught about the "Kingdom of God." 

So I wonder my friend, are you doing everything you can to make people feel welcome in your church? I sure hope so because doing so could very well mean the difference in someone making the decision to follow Jesus or walking away and never looking back. 

Heavenly Father, thank You so much for the example that You set for us to follow by welcoming all those who come to seek You regardless of their appearance or status. Help us to do the same Lord that the lost might be reached and come to know You because of it. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Start right here

But God

"Not one word of all the good promises that the LORD had made to the house of Israel had failed; all came to pass." Joshua 21:45 ESV

Collins Dictionary defines the word “but” as a proposition used to introduce something which contrasts with what a person has just said. That means, in other words (pardon the pun), “but” can be a self-defeating word that causes a person to lose hope. Consider this... as a running coach and a Christian, I can't tell you how many times, I've heard someone say, "I would love to start running, but I just don't have the strength." Or "I really want to overcome this food addiction, but I just don’t have the willpower." And I've even heard "I want to believe that Jesus has forgiven me, but I just can’t." Can you see where I'm going with this?

But guess what? The word “but” loses its power when you and I add God after it. You see, the Bible is full of God's promises, all of which we can fully trust since they "all came to pass" and none have failed. Need strength? God promised He would give it and He did. Need help overcoming an addiction? God promised to save us from all distress and He did. And if you think some sins can't be forgiven, God promised ALL our sins would be remembered no more and they weren’t. You see, the world tells us one thing, but God tells us another. 

So the next time you're tempted to give up and say, "but I can’t," remember that God can. He do anything my friend. And the sooner you believe that, the sooner you will begin living a life of victory. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that, through You, we can live lives free from guilt, depression, addiction, shame, hopelessness, weakness and self-doubt. Help us to study your Word daily Lord that we might discover Your promises, hold tight to them and live in victory. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Same Power - Jeremy Camp

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QD1QMSYKL6Q

Without a doubt

"Not to us, LORD, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness." Psalm 115:1 NIV

Perhaps at no other time in the many years I've been running have I ever encountered as many obstacles and setbacks in training for a race as I have for the Prairie Spirit 100. With a work schedule that only allowed for early morning runs, I not only had to train through the winter's frigid temperatures, unpredictable wind chills and the months of overwhelming predawn darkness (by far the hardest part), but the numerous winter storms we received, ever-increased family obligations and an injury that limited the miles I would normally have logged for a race this long. But you know what? Despite all this, I'm going to smile and trust Him as I step up to the start line tomorrow, continually calling to mind the stories of people in the Bible, like Joshua, Moses, David and Paul, who just wouldn’t give up. 

You see, these brave men of the faith serve as inspiration because they all faced circumstances, like mine, that were so dire and hopeless they appeared destined to be defeated by them. In other words, in the eyes of those watching, they were all going to fail and fail miserably. But guess what? They didn't fail and they didn’t lose their faith. Joshua, Moses, David, and Paul were all victorious and there was no doubt as to the reason why... God. And guess what else? Because of the overwhelming odds each one of these men was confronted with beforehand, it was impossible to give anyone but the Lord the glory for the victory! The people came to know, without a doubt, that the Lord was responsible!

Perhaps, barring a miracle, you're like me and facing serious defeat today too? Maybe it's in your health, family, faith or finances? Well then keep believing, look up and celebrate my friend. These are the very circumstances God allows us to face so we, and those watching, can, without a doubt, ascribe to Him the glory only He is due for his "love and faithfulness." 

Heavenly Father, thank You for being a God that we can trust. Amidst our circumstances today Lord, help us to understand that we were made to bring You glory and that the way we are called to do that may not always make sense to us. Help us to press on in the midst of trials that the lost would come to see our faith that never gives up and come to know You because of it. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!! 

Resurrecting - Elevation Worship

Keep those good deeds private

"'Watch out! Don't do your good deeds publicly, to be admired by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven." Matthew 6:1 NLT

As if working a full-time job, a part-time job, training for an ultra-marathon, and being a mother and wife whose husband is working out of town wasn't enough of a workload, my washer decided to go out recently. Thankfully though, while my daughter and I are waiting for the special order to arrive, I am able to do our laundry at work. Which is awesome unless I forget to take the laundry home. And that's exactly what happened last Friday. Realizing I had left the load in the dryer, I stopped by the next day to retrieve it only to find that someone in the office had not only taken the clothes out of the dryer but had neatly folded them and placed them in my basket. Oh how this made me smile! It’s just amazing how acts of kindness, both big and small, can refresh the heart of the receiver. 

And you know, when it comes to doing "good deeds" such as this, the Bible tells us that we should do them as often as we can. But we should perform these acts of kindness for the Lord and out of our great love for Him rather than "to be admired by others." You see, the Lord knows our motives. And when you and I do "good deeds publicly" to receive the praises of men rather than God, we trade the eternal "reward" the Father has for us in heaven for the temporary and hollow praises of man on earth. 

So be on guard my friend! "Watch out" that your motives for helping others are pure, honorable and done out of compassion. And then forego making your acts public, knowing an amazing reward awaits those believers who do. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that the kind and good things we do for others should be done out of our love for You. Help us to value your praise above that of man that our motive might be pure and gain us an eternal reward unlike anything the world could offer. Help us to do it all for You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

All for You - MIKESCHAIR

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJFm4rBQrZE

Make yourself ready

"Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready." Revelation 19:7

With less than a week to go until the Prairie Spirit Trail 100 mile race, I am keenly aware that no amount of training put in between today and Saturday could prepare me for for the long-distance run that awaits me. By the work already done, I have either made myself ready or I have not and there is absolutely no more time to make fitness or endurance gains, no matter how hard I might try. The thought doesn’t worry me though because, as I look back on the many months of preparation (and ever- confident that God will be by my side providing the strength needed to finish), I can smile knowing I am as ready as I will ever be. 

And when it comes to being prepared, would you be ready for Jesus' return if he came back at this very moment? Does the thought of meeting Him fill you with joy and anticipation or dread and apprehension? The answer to that question is very important my friend because the Bible is very clear that it will happen without warning and at a time when you and I least expect it. But there is good news! You can make yourself ready now by accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior, committing your life to Him, and living each day hereafter in preparation "for the wedding of the Lamb." 

 

So I guess the question is... are you trained up and ready? If you are, then smile and "rejoice and be glad and give him glory!" But if you're not, what will you do to make yourself ready? And what are you waiting for? There’s no time to waste!

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that Jesus is coming back one day. It could be today or a thousand years from now. Let us not concern ourselves with when it might happen though, only that we are ready for when it does. And knowing your return could be imminent, help us to be prepared. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

People Get Ready

http://youtu.be/ZN0cl4RtFhg

Be a good citizen

"Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone--especially to those in the family of faith." Galatians 6:20 NLT

To say I have been blessed the last several years would be an absolute understatement. I love what I do! I love being a running coach and race director and I absolutely love helping to plan events that give people opportunities to do things they once thought impossible. Through all this, I love even more that these organized runs and free training sessions provide "the opportunity" to share the love of Jesus with others. So when I received a "Good Citizen Award" last week for "enhancing the physical and spiritual well-being" of the community in which I live, I was utterly humbled. This is definitely not the reason I work to "do good" in my little part of the world. I do it because I love the Lord with all my heart and want to inspire others to love Him as well. 

And you know, when it comes down to it, you and I as believers are not really citizens of this world anyway. The Bible clearly tells us that we are citizens of heaven. But while we are here and passing through, you and I have a very important job to do. And that job is to be "good citizens” of this present world, residents who look for opportunities to "do good to everyone," that the lost might come to know Jesus by our actions. Furthermore, since our time here is short and there are multitudes of people to be reached, this is a job we must take seriously each and every day. 

So continually look for opportunities to do good to others my friend. And if you can't find an opportunity, create one! You'll only pass through this world once, so don't waste even one moment of it. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that our time on earth is very short and that we have a lot of work to do while we are here. Give us a sense of urgency Lord that we wouldn't miss even one opportunity to do good to someone that they might experience Your love through us. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Let it Start with Me

We are ambassadors

"Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, certain that God is appealing through us. We plead on Christ's behalf, "Be reconciled to God.'" 2 Corinthians 5:20 HCSB

In the running and racing world, it has become quite common for race promoters, shoe companies, sports drink makers, and other companies that make products for runners to employ ambassadors, or people who act as representatives or promoters of their event or product, to help them draw in participants or make sales. Currently blessed, myself, to be an ambassador for a major shoe company and a large race series, I have learned that people are much more likely to try a brand or register for a run if they believe the ambassador would do the same if given the chance without any incentives for doing so. 

In other words, the true like or dislike an ambassador displays for what they are promoting strongly influences whether a person will choose to buy their product or participate in their event. The same is true of our witness for the Lord. As believers, we are all "ambassadors for Christ" with the important job of pleading for others to "be reconciled to God." But guess what? If they don't see the love that you and I have for Jesus, they likely won't be swayed to follow Him. And that would surely be a tragedy of infinite measure.  

So remember that people are watching you everywhere you go my friend. And as a representative for Christ, they will either come to know Him or to turn away from Him because of your actions or your speech. Does your life show that you truly love others? Because if it doesn't, how can anyone believe you love the Lord?

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that the things we do or don't affect whether we reach the lost. Help us to live our lives loving and serving You and others so well that people will know, without a doubt, that we represent the one true God and will want to know You more. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

The proof of Your love _ for KING & COUNTRY

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

thejoyfilledrunner: The danger of pride

thejoyfilledrunner: The danger of pride: "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall." Proverbs 16:18 NIV With less than two weeks until the Pr...

thejoyfilledrunner: Come home running

thejoyfilledrunner: Come home running: "So he got up and went to his father. "But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion f...

Come home running

"So he got up and went to his father. "But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him." Luke 15:20

From the day my son, Luke, was born, I was in love. This beautiful child God blessed me with filled my heart with joy from day one. Now that he's 20 and in college though, I rarely see him. And oh how I miss him! I didn't know just how much though until he came home last weekend. As he walked in the door and I saw his smiling face again, I couldn't help but cry tears of happiness. Running over to him, I lifted my arms to hug his neck and said, "I'm so glad you're home." 

Truly, could there be any greater love in the world than what a parent feels for their child? But as great as that love is, can you imagine that God loves His children even more? In fact the Bible tells us that He loves them (that means you and me) so much that when they stray, He welcomes them back home. And if you're thinking that God couldn't possibly forgive you for the things you have done, consider this. The prodigal son left home and wasted all his money in wild living but, in spite of that, when "his father saw him... he ran to his son" and "threw his arms around him and kissed him." 

Perhaps you, like the prodigal son, have wandered away and long to come home? Then call out to the Lord my friend. I can promise you there's nothing You have done that will keep Him from running to meet You right where you're at. He truly loves you that much. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for being a patient and loving Father. Thank You for loving the lost so much that You would forgive them of their sins if they would only ask and then welcome them back home with loving arms. I pray that if there's someone reading this today that has run away from you, that today would be the day they would turn around and come home running. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Come home running - Chris Tomlin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tK8fS81Mnko

The danger of pride

"Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall." Proverbs 16:18 NIV

With less than two weeks until the Prairie Spirit 100-mile race, I've begun doing my last runs simulating the run/walk (90 seconds running/30 seconds walking) method I will need to use in order to finish a race of this distance. But in order for this technique that's designed to reduce stress on the body and mind therefore allowing a runner to run long distances to work as it should, it has to be done from start to finish. I know this full well and yet what I found myself doing yesterday morning was so stupid! Several times when people would pass, I would ignore the intervals and pick up the pace. Couldn't have anyone thinking I was walking now could I? "Oh Melissa," I scolded myself. "You better get over yourself. That kind of pride will lead to your failure." 

And you know what? That wouldn't be the first time pride, or the feeling or belief that a person is more important than they really are, caused someone to stumble. The Bible is full of stories of people who allowed pride to lead to their destruction. You see, proud people fail to see their own weaknesses, believing they are better than the average person - smarter, more talented, and certainly above making mistakes. And it's this distorted view of themselves that ultimately leads to their fall as Solomon clearly knew when he wrote, "Pride goes before destruction..." 

So be careful not to harbor a "haughty spirit" my friend. That kind of attitude, defined as blatantly and disdainfully proud or having or showing an attitude of superiority and contempt for people or things perceived to be inferior, will most certainly lead to your fall.

Heavenly Father, forgive us for being prideful. Help us to see ourselves as we really are, capable of nothing on our own and dependent on You for everything we are and everything we have. Help us to always stay humble and kind, following the example of Jesus, that we might lead others to the foot of the Cross by our speech and our behavior. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Humble and kind - Tim McGraw

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

Toss the excuses

"... because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, and we have a priceless inheritance—an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay." 1 Peter 1:3,4 NLT

With the help of Westley, Waffle and Gus, Thomas Panek, president and CEO of Guiding Eyes for the Blind, made history on Sunday when he became the first blind runner to complete the New York City Half Marathon with the help of guide dogs. An avid runner, Panek enlisted the help of volunteer human guides to help him complete 20 marathons when he lost his eyesight in his early 20's. Still, Panek missed the feeling of independence, which ultimately inspired him to start a formal training program for running guide dogs."It never made sense to me to walk out the door and leave my guide dog behind when I love to run and they love to run." But you know, had Panek used blindness as an excuse to deter him from running, he never would have crossed that finish line or started an organization to help others do the same. That certainly would have been a shame. Don't you agree?

But do you know what's really a shame? People choosing not to follow Jesus and missing out on all the benefits. Sure, it will be hard. The Bible clearly tells us that. But the Bible also tells us that those who choose to follow Christ, without excuse and in spite of the hardships, will "have a priceless inheritance," an endowment so valuable that its value cannot be determined, waiting for them in heaven. And you can be sure this inheritance of an eternal life spent with the Savior will be worth staying faithful amidst the trials and tribulations of this life. 

So if you haven't made the decision to follow Jesus, don't make excuses as to why you shouldn't do it right now my friend. After all, there are no guarantees any of us will see tomorrow and it would truly be a shame if you missed the opportunity. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the promise that all who have put their trust in You will one day spend eternity with You. Help us to truly grasp just how long eternity is that those who have not made the decision to follow You would toss the excuses and do it today. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

No turning back - Brandon Heath

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_TGh9-iabM

Give glory where it is due

"he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities." Psalm 103:10 NIV

On March 14, I received an email saying, "Congratulations Wonder Women! You all are amazing individuals and have been chosen to be a DC Wonder Woman Run Ambassador." "Wow," I thought to myself. "What a blessing to be one of those chosen! Thank you Lord." Not one to keep such great news to myself, I posted the news on Facebook hoping that people would see this blessing the same way I did... as an undeserved gift from God and yet another reason to glorify his Name. And while many people did see God's hand in it, many others applauded the news and said, "You deserve it." 

But you know what? I don't deserve it. I don't deserve anything good. I know that full well. But I also know that every good thing I have ever accomplished, every good thing I have ever possessed and every good thing I have ever experienced was given to me by God's grace and God's grace alone. I, stained by sin like everyone else, really deserve nothing but the penalty of death for my transgressions. Thankfully though, as the psalmist knew, God "does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities" but continues to love us in spite of our shortcomings. Isn't that a wonderful thought? 

So how can I not give glory where glory is due? How can any of us not? And how can we not sing the praises of a God who, in His infinite mercy and love for us, decides to bless us rather than repay us for the wrongs we have done? 

Heavenly Father, you are so worthy of all honor. Thank You for loving us so much that You would choose to give us good things when we are so undeserving of them. May we forever give you all the glory and sing Your praises that the world might come to know You and believe in You through our words and actions. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

How can I keep from singing - Chris Tomlin

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

Some standards change

"God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it." Ephesians 2:8,9 NLT

On Sunday, the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), track and field's world governing body, announced new qualifying standards for track and field athletes and marathoners. Before, athletes simply needed to run a qualifying standard time and secure selection from their national governing body—USA Track & Field (USATF) in the case of the U.S.—to earn their place at the Olympic Games. But, for the first time, world rankings will now be part of the criteria for running, with the bar set much higher for those wishing to qualify via time alone. Needless to say, many athletes were not happy about it and used social media to criticize the changes.

And you know, in a world where what it takes to qualify, or be entitled to a particular benefit or privilege by fulfilling a necessary condition, for something is always changing, isn't it nice to know that God's standards never change? The moment you and I believed in Him, God saved us by his grace and we became qualified and entitled to enter heaven. And this salvation was granted only because we believed and not as "a reward for the good things we have done” or could ever do. 

So if you have already placed your trust in Jesus, count your blessings my friend. You are qualified to enter into the greatest event of all time... eternal life with Christ. But if you haven't, won't you consider doing it right now? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for making the standard to qualify for entry into heaven so clear and never-changing. We simply need to believe in and place our trust in Jesus Christ as our Savior to gain salvation and eternal life. I pray that anyone reading this right now that hasn't made you Lord of their life would do so at this very moment by saying, "Lord I accept You into my heart. I believe that You died on the cross to save me and I confess my sins and ask for forgiveness." It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

You never change - Austin Stone

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=19n8hJu1ppI

The work of an evangelist

"But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry." 2 Timothy 4:5 NIV

On Sunday, May 19, Dan Harris will attempt to complete the Cellcom Green Bay Marathon for the 20th time. He's among 18 people who comprise "The Legends Club" who have run the race each year since it started. Affectionately nicknamed "Durable Dan," Harris is an inspiration to many because of the numerous injuries and hardships he has had to overcome to keep his streak going - including a ruptured Achilles tendon, a dislocated shoulder, Atrial Fibrillation, and most recently a hip replacement. "Everybody was on board until my hip replacement," Harris said. But added that his doctors know that "no" isn't a word in his vocabulary. 

And you know, when it comes to pressing on in spite of injuries and hardships, Paul warned Timothy that the young pastor would face opposition in his pursuit to follow Christ - but when opposition arose, counseled Timothy to seek God's word for the Truth "in all situations" and to refuse to buckle under the weight of adverse circumstances, reminding him that God had called him to "endure hardship." All this he was to do, Paul said, while continuing to wholeheartedly and steadfastly preach the Word to others, thus fulfilling "all the duties" of his ministry. 

And it's no different today my friend. Each one of us has been called to "do the work of an evangelist," or a person who seeks to convert others to the Christian faith, especially by public preaching. And to do so, you and I must also seek the Truth daily and patiently endure the tests, trials, and sufferings that go along with being a servant of Jesus Christ. Plain and simple, we need to refuse to give up no matter how hard it gets. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for allowing us the privilege of serving You. Help us to react to all situations and hardships in the same way that Jesus would that we might not back down in the face of pain or adversity. Help us also to be bold in sharing the Good News at every opportunity and unwilling to compromise the Message that we might lead the lost to the foot of the Cross. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

I will go - Starfield

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oo-hkHf_qeY

Declare the greatness of our God

"'Return home and tell how much God has done for you." So the man went away and told all over town how much Jesus had done for him." Luke 8:39 NIV

Knowing my close friend was attempting to complete his first ultra-marathon Saturday night at the 12-Hour Racing for Daylight Ultra event, I followed his Facebook page the next day to see if he had been successful. Not seeing anything posted, I contacted him Monday. "Well how did you do?" I asked. To which he replied, "I'm sorry. I did complete the 50k. But it took me ten hours, which is embarrassing for me when I've done a marathon in half that time." Messaging him back I said, "Don't be embarrassed!!! Ultra running is a whole different ballgame. Praise God that you could do it!"  

Can you imagine being able to run 31 miles and then being too embarrassed to tell someone about it? That's a long way and few people will ever to do it, and yet my friend was able to! But he kept silent - feeling only shame at what he perceived to be failure. But isn't that just like the devil? To fill our minds with lies to keep us from telling about the good things God has done for us? Things that have the power to inspire others to see for themselves this "Jesus" who can give us the strength to do the impossible?

So don't fall into the trap of embarrassment my friend. Recognize it for what it is... undue shame used to keep us from proclaiming the greatness of our God. And then thank Him for the things (big and small) He has done through you and for you and tell everyone you know!

Heavenly Father, You are so very good to us. Thank You for giving us the strength to do amazing things in your Name. Things that are worthy of proclaiming to others that they might be inspired to see for themselves this "Jesus" who can perform miracles and grant salvation. Help us to see through the lies the devil whispers and to tell everyone about the greatness of our God. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!! 

Greatness of our God - Newsboys

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gf8qQLGZ3o8

Do it well

"Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace:" 1 Peter 4:9,10

On March 9, the Frog Fitness Group, a running ministry I'm blessed to be a part of, hosted a 12-hour ultra marathon event to benefit CASA of S. Central Mo. Staffed solely by volunteers, each person was assigned duties they seemed to be exceptionally gifted at performing. Mandy Reed was one of those people. Blessed with the gift of feeding people and making them feel welcome, she laid out a spread at the aid station that resembled that of an upscale restaurant (totally different from any aid station I had ever seen). With nutella roll-ups displayed on a glass platter topped with a fancy lid, homemade chocolate chip cookies, donuts on sticks, gourmet tasting grilled cheese sandwiches, and an array of other snacks strategically and aesthetically placed, many runners spent longer in the aid station than they would have otherwise. It was just a comfortable place to be. 

And you know, when it comes to hospitality or any other special talent you and I may have been given, the Bible is very clear that we are to use our unique gifts "to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace." In other words, in light of being able to do something exceptionally well, you and I shouldn't do it to benefit only ourselves but to joyfully bless those around us as best we can, with no complaining or grumbling that they might truly feel the love of Christ displayed through us. 

So find out what you're good at my friend - and then, acknowledging your special talent was given only by God's grace, use what you’re good at to extend love and kindness to others that they might be refreshed and even come to know the Lord through your efforts. Using our talents for anything less would be wasting the gift. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for people who use their gifts to the best of their abilities to bless others and to lead the lost to You. May we remember that all of our talents and skills were given to us by You specifically to be used in service to You. And may we do that to the best of our ability. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

All that I am - Rend Collective

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1BC12jgaeEY

Want to know more about CASA or how you can help? Please check out https://www.casascmo.org/. 

Be the light

"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works," Hebrews 10:24 ESV

"I just pray that you would stir up affections in our hearts and our minds as we're running along. God would you turn our conversations towards You? Towards how we can be a better witness, how we can reach out and love our neighbor? How we can reach out and be the light in this community or whatever community we're from?" Those were the words spoken by Mike Wells, an avid runner and Pastor, before the beginning of the Racing for Daylight Ultra marathon event to benefit CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) on Saturday. Knowing the runners lined up to start the race were already joined in support of one amazing cause, he invited them (and us) to look for other ways that we, as individuals and as a team, could further show the love of Christ to others.

And truthfully, can there be any better way to "be the light" that leads the lost to Christ than by stirring "up one another" to reach out to our communities? Considering that "stir up" means to kindle afresh or keep in full flame, you can see why it's absolutely essential then for believers to daily discuss and ponder God's will for reaching those in need and ways that we can fill those needs. And most importantly, ways to fan the flames that cause us to burn with love for one another and for those around us. This "love," my friend, is the very thing that will lead you and me to do the "good works" that lead to change in our backyards, neighborhoods, towns and cities. 

So whether we're running together, meeting for Bible study or simply sharing a cup of coffee, may our conversations be turned towards God and ways that we can be a better witness, ways we can better love our neighbor, and ways we can "be the light" to a dark world.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that we live in a sinful world. A dark world in need of the light that every Christian carries but few are willing to share. Help us to look for ways to make that light burn within us and those around us that we might lead people to the foot of the Cross. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Ready, Set, Go - Royal Tailor
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=toCKscre-qE

Well done

"His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’" Matthew 25:23 ESV

Knowing how busy my schedule was before taking on the full time job I am blessed to have now, a coworker sat down in my office recently and said, "So, how are you doing it? How are you getting everything done that you did before with adding in work and training for a 100 mile ultra?" Laughing, I replied, "Preparation. Lots and lots of preparation. I prep my meals and clothes at night. I prep for morning Bible study in advance by having everything I need already laid out, and I use my time more wisely, eliminating any habits or activities that don't draw me closer to God or my goal of completing the race." 

And you know, when it comes down to it, what I'm really preparing for is the day when I will finally see my Savior face to face and, because of the way I have lived, will hear the words, "Well done good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your master. " You see, life is not about biding our time while enjoying the spoils of our efforts until the day we are called home. Life is about living for Christ each moment. It's about using the specific gifts He has given us for reaching out to the lost, showing love to others and working to bring people to the foot of the Cross. Living life any other way is simply wasting the time and talents we have been given. 

So don't waste another moment of your life doing anything other than what God has called you to do my friend. There are many people to be reached and many things to be done. Get busy making the most of your days so that you too will one day hear the words, "Well done good and faithful servant." 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that everything we have comes from You and is to be used in service to You. That means our time, our talents, and our possessions are Your's. Guide us in the best way to use them Lord so that we will win souls and be deserving of the title "good and faithful servant." It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Well done - Erica Campbell

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bP2X1rO1Ft4

Declare His works

"One generation will declare your works to the next and will proclaim your mighty acts." Psalm 145:4 CEB

In celebration of his centennial birthday, Ernie Lacroix of Fort Worth, TX completed his first race as a 100-year-old February 23 when he crossed the finish line of the Cowtown 5k for the 20th-straight time. He says he chose this way to celebrate both milestones "because it was a great way for a lot of the family to participate together, young and old." Registered under the team name Smoky's Posse (the name Lacroix gave his airplane during WWII), Ernie said, "We had four generations walking. It was just great walking with the family.”

And while it's always inspiring to see a person's passion for fitness passed down to the next generation, and the next and the next, it's an even greater thing to see a person's love for the Lord passed down. The psalmist clearly understood to do that, though, would require each generation to declare God's works and proclaim his mighty acts to the next. This, he knew, was the only way to ensure that our children and their children, and every generation thereafter would clearly understood the greatness of our God and the importance of following Him. 

So I wonder, are you telling the next generation about the Lord? About his goodness, grace and mercy? And about the marvelous things He has done? And are your children and grandchildren seeing your love for Him displayed in the way you live your life? I sure hope so my friend. Because this is the only way to ensure the next generation will do the same. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that it is our duty to tell the next generation about your majesty and loving-kindness. May we remember that, while passing on a passion for fitness is a good thing, it pales in comparison to passing on the knowledge of your Word and commands. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Greatness of our God - Newsboys

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gf8qQLGZ3o8

Rock bottom

"But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!'" Matthew 14:30 NIV

Yesterday, as I begrudgingly chose cross-training over running for the umpteenth day in a row to help eliminate the piriformis discomfort I’ve been experiencing, I thought back to the many times over the years I had run through all types of discomfort until the pain became so intense I just couldn't take it any longer. It was only then, when I had hit absolute rock-bottom in my efforts to keep going and couldn't take another step, that I would acknowledge my "problem" and seek help. 

But truthfully, isn't hitting rock-bottom, or sinking down to the lowest possible level you and I can, the only thing that causes us to acknowledge our need for the Lord sometimes? Of course it is. And while Peter was chastised for his lack of faith when he began to sink and "cried out, "Lord, save me!'" at least he was smart enough to do it at the first sign of trouble - when he began to go down, instead of when he had reached the bottom of the sea. 

So if you're in over-your-head and feel like you're drowning today because of a “problem,” don't wait until you’re at rock-bottom to ask for help my friend. Cry out to Jesus now and allow Him to pull you up. After all, when you and I trust Him, we can not only withstand the wind but can walk on the water. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that we need you at all times, not just when we feel we're drowning. Help us to constantly keep our eyes on You and walk in Your ways that we might avoid the problems that cause us pain and bring us down in the first place. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Walk on water - Audio Adrenaline

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ya-r674mxbw

Seek wise advice

"But Rehoboam rejected the advice of the older men and instead asked the opinion of the young men who had grown up with him and were now his advisers." 1 Kings 12:8 NLT

In a recent article published by mapmyrun, five long-time runners shared some of the best and worst advice they had ever received. Some of the best? Trust your training, never wear anything new on race day, and enjoy your time spent training because that's where the real magic happens. And the worst? You need to log huge hours to run a marathon and you need to look like a runner to be a runner. Yikes! That bad advice certainly proves how important it is to seek guidance from good sources. That's the kind of instruction that can ruin running dreams and dash peoples’ hopes. 

And when it comes to getting advice, the Bible is very clear that listening to anything other than wise counsel can have dire consequences. Consider Rehoboam who was made king at Shechem. When the people came to ask him to lighten their workload in exchange for their loyalty, Rehoboam consulted the elders who had served his father Solomon. Upon getting fair and wise advice from these elders, Rehoboam rejected it and "instead asked the opinion of the young men who had grown up with him.." And the results were disastrous. Their bad advice led to a rebellion and the people rejected Rehoboam as their king. 

So as you can see, it is very important to seek advice only from those people you know you can trust my friend. Godly men and women with the knowledge and experience to lead you in the right direction. Seeking guidance from anyone else could leave you, and those around you, with many regrets. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that we can be led astray when we don't seek wise advice. Help us to build relationships with other believers that we might have a circle of friends from which to pursue godly answers to our questions. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Show me Your ways - Hillsong United

https://youtu.be/ZGp3VCKkjaU

Donate it

"A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed." Proverbs 11:25 NIV

In anticipation of spring cleaning (and yes, spring will be here soon regardless of the forecast), Runner's World Magazine  published some tips about the things runners should toss and what they should keep. And while many items like broken devices and expired food should be thrown away, worn-down running shoes, cotton socks, race shirts you and I don't wear and other extra clothing that never gets worn should all be donated to charity. Purging the things and gadgets that aren't making you fitter, they say, will lead to less clutter around your home and better running health. 

And while donating to charity will definitely free up space for more race shirts and might make us feel good, it shouldn't be our motivation for giving. Giving to others is something you and I should just do - whether that be of our time, talent, energy or possessions. You see, everything you and I have is from God and meant to be shared. And there's absolutely nothing you and I could ever part with with that God can't resupply. He is just that generous! And the reason you and I should be so as well. 

So go ahead and get that spring cleaning done my friend. Be that "generous person" who "refreshes others" by giving unselfishly and unsparingly. I can promise that by doing so, you, yourself, will be equally "refreshed" and blessed. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that everything we have comes from You and You are a generous God who supplies all our needs. Help us to then generously use those things You've given us to bless others knowing that it pleases You when we do. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen, 

Happy Running!!! 

All that I am - Rend Collective

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1BC12jgaeEY