Do things that truly matter

"'The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'" Matthew 25:40 NIV

“My dad told me one day: ‘When you’re walking and you meet a sick person on the road, help him. Do not leave him,’ so that was the first thing that came to my mind when I saw my friend on the ground.” Those were the words of Simon Cheprot after giving up the win at the Okpekpe International Road Race 10k in Nigeria when he stopped to help fellow Kenyan runner Keneth Kepkemoi after Keneth collapsed just before the finish line. Event promoter Mike Itemuagbor later said this of Simon, "He did not win any medals but he won hearts."

And you know, Simon's dad was indeed correct. You and I should never leave someone that needs our help - which means we must be willing to sacrifice our time, energy, resources, and sometimes even our victories without hesitation. And we gain this state of the heart that says, "Yes Lord, I will do your will above mine," by remembering that "whatever" it is that you and I do for others we actually do for Jesus. And the best part about this? When non-believers see our intense love for Christ reflected in this sacrificial love for our "brothers and sisters," He is glorified and the lost are drawn to Him. 

So strive to be a light in this dark world my friend by doing things that truly matter. Think of it this way, years from now no one will remember the person who won this race but they will always remember the man who willingly gave it up for his brother... just like Jesus gave up everything for us. Those are the only actions that truly matter. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of your Son, Jesus Christ, who showed us what it means to truly love others. He was willing to sacrifice everything He had for us. Help us to show that same love to our brothers and sisters knowing that the only actions that truly matter are the ones that have an eternal impact. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

All For You

Difficult circumstances

"You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people." Genesis 50:20 NLT

As I listened to the participants of the aqua running class I'm blessed to teach talk about how grateful they were to have discovered this amazing exercise that all ages and fitness levels can do last night, I had to fight back tears. These men and women were so happy to be "running" and I couldn't help but thank God for the adversity that brought me here. You see, several years ago while preparing to run the Boston Marathon, I developed tendinitis and was told to take six-weeks off from running. I was devastated knowing that I would be healed in time to run but would be unable to since I would lose all endurance from the time off. Thankfully though, God brought someone into my life that introduced me to aqua running and I was able to train through the injury and finish the race. Most importantly though, God arranged this difficult circumstance to lead me to the place where He could use me today. 

And you know, God is good like that. Whether we realize it at the time or not, God can and will use our difficult circumstances for good... that is if we don't give up. Consider Joseph. He was sold by his brothers into slavery and imprisoned for a crime he didn't commit. But through each trial, Joseph never wavered in his belief that God was still in control and so patiently waited, trusting that God's plan was best. And you know what? God's plan was best. Those difficult circumstances brought Joseph to the "position" where God could use Him to "save the lives of many people" when a seven-year drought ravaged the land. 

And you know what? God wants to use each and every one of us too - maybe never in a position where we can save thousands of people, but in a position where we can do good nonetheless. And truthfully, if we reach just one person, wouldn't it make any difficult circumstance worth going through? I sure think so. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that You are always in control no matter how it appears and that You are working all things for the good of those who believe. Father, I pray that everyone in the midst of a trial or difficult circumstance would truly believe that and find comfort in the midst of their pain. Help us to trust You at all times Lord and to praise You in every circumstance. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Haven't seen it yet

Practice what you preach

"Well then, if you teach others, why don’t you teach yourself? You tell others not to steal, but do you steal?" Romans 2:21 NLT

Knowing my daughter's shins had been hurting for a few days, I asked her to go for a walk with me rather than a run over the weekend. Midway through though, she said, "I think I'll run for a little bit." To which I responded, "You really need to take a few days off honey. Pain is the body's way of telling us that something just isn't right. Trust me, I'm a running coach remember?" And what she said next really stung, "Well you don't listen to your body Mom. You run through pain all the time." Talk about being convicted about practicing what I preach! "You're right honey," I said sadly. "But look what happens when I do. An ache that could have been gone away after a few days of rest turns into an injury that lasts for weeks." 

And you know, when it comes to practicing what we preach, the Bible is very clear that you and I should strive to avoid any hint of hypocrisy - which means we should strive to avoid any behavior that contradicts with what we claim to believe. In other words, the things you and I "teach others" to do or not to do are the very things we ourselves should do or not do. So if you and I “tell others not to steal," we shouldn't steal. And if we teach our children that they should be honest and kind, we, ourselves, should be honest and kind. 

So knowing that our actions determine the credibility of our words and what we teach then, may you and I vow to practice what we preach at all times. After all, if people, especially our children, don't see us living by our convictions, they will never listen to what we say. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for my daughter who constantly serves to remind me of the importance of being true to the things I say. Lord, help us to remember that people are always watching us and that living contrary to what we profess to believe might lead them away from You - something we just can't allow. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

I want to be like You

Stay committed

"Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk, not as unwise but as wise," Ephesians 5:15 BSB

“If you would have told me seven years ago I’d be running marathons today, I wouldn’t have believed you,” Stephanie Andre, a 36-year-old mom who recently qualified for the 2020 Olympic Marathon Trials, told Runner’s World. You see, seven years ago Andre was a smoker living a sedentary lifestyle. But when her sister, Sara, decided to train for a marathon, Stephanie watched. “I was skeptical that she’d follow through with it,” said Andre. But Sara stayed committed and followed through with her training, inspiring Stephanie to sign up as well - a decision that changed the course of Stephanie's life.

And you know, when it comes to inspiring others to make the decision to follow Jesus, a choice that would totally change the course of their lives, we would do well to remember that people, especially non-believers, are always watching the way we live, looking to see if we are truly committed to the faith we profess to have. Which is why Paul urged us to "pay careful attention" to how we walk and to act wisely in word and deed - taking every precaution to follow Jesus without wavering, compromising, or backing down that others would be persuaded and influenced to follow our lead. 

So today may you and I, knowing the influence living a godly life has on the world around us, renew our commitment to following the Lord and wholeheartedly serving Him so that others might make the decision to do the same.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that the way we live has a profound impact on how we influence unbelievers. Help us to be so steadfast in our desire to walk righteously that we would commit ourselves to reading our Bibles daily that we would learn your precepts and follow them. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Take my life

The happiest loss

"But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ." Philippians 3:7 NASB

At the start of 2019, Michael Mackiewicz, a senior at Livonia Franklin High School in Minnesota, was one of the best runners on his track team, poised to run at the collegiate level. But that all changed when he was diagnosed with Lupus, a systemic autoimmune disease that occurs when your body’s immune system attacks your own tissues and organs. Upon learning that Mackiewicz would not be able to compete the season, the coaching staff and his team devised a way to honor him. The 800m was his best race, but that was out of the question now. Instead, [they] came up with the idea to have Mackiewicz run the final leg of the 4×4 400, relay with three other seniors. And although the relay team lost the race, they said it was the happiest loss anyone involved had ever experienced. 

And you know, when it comes to being happy about losing, Paul clearly understood the irony saying, "whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ." You see, Paul knew that anything he had ever won or accomplished was worthless in comparison to the greatness of knowing, following and serving Jesus  - and that true and lasting happiness was gained not in anything we could ever do or obtain but by our relationship with the Savior. 

So I wonder today, what makes you truly happy my friend? The things of this world? Or simply knowing Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that nothing gained apart from a relationship with You will ever last or bring us true happiness. Help us to seek You above all else Lord and to be willing to sacrifice any win or gain to show our brother or sister the love of Jesus knowing it's the happiest loss we will ever experience. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

All I once held dear

Run to Remember

"Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed." Romans 13:7 ESV

Like thousands of other runners across the nation, I will begin this Memorial Day by participating in a wear blue event organized to honor and remember the men and women who have boldly raised their right hand to defend our freedoms and safety. And on this morning run, I will specifically remember and honor one young man I’ve never had the privilege of meeting...  United States 1st Lieutenant Ryan Jones, who was killed on 5/2/2007 while serving with 4th Brigade Special Troops BN, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division. But you know, I don't need to have known this brave soldier personally to highly esteem and respect him. Simply knowing Ryan willingly died for me, a complete stranger, warrants my sincerest admiration. 

And you know, when it comes to honoring people who warrant, or deserve our admiration, the Bible is very clear that you and I are to "pay to all what is owed to them... respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed." And you can be sure that the generations of American soldiers who selflessly laid down their lives on battlefields all around the world, whether we know them or not, are most definitely deserving and worthy of our utmost appreciation, esteem, reverence, and recognition.

So today and every day, may you and I remember that freedom isn't free - that the utmost honor is due first to Jesus Christ who willingly died to free us from our sins, and then to every fallen serviceman and woman who died for the freedoms we enjoy today. After all, as Lane Allen Evans wrote, "Without the brave efforts of all the soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines and their families, this nation, along with our allies around the world, would not stand so boldly, shine so brightly and live so freely."

Heavenly Father, thank You for Jesus Christ who was the ultimate example of love. He willingly laid down His life so we could be free from sin's tyranny once and for all. And thank you for every fallen American soldier Lord who showed the same love for us, laying down their lives so we could live in a country where we are free to worship You. Please give peace to those families that have lost loved ones today Lord, and remind them that their deaths were not in vain. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Til the last shot's fired

Season it just right

"Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." Colossians 4:5,6

Feeling the urge to reach out to a friend (and patient at the clinic where I work part-time) I hadn't heard from in a while, I sent a text, "Is everything okay? I was worried about you." Five minutes later I received a call from his daughter whom I had never met, "I'm so very sorry," she said. "I meant to call you. Dad died a few weeks ago. He told me all about you though and about how you had been sharing the Lord with him every month when he came in to see you, and how you always urged him to make the decision to follow Jesus before it was too late." With tears flowing down my face, I prayed and then said, "Do you know if he had made that decision before he died?" "Yes," she said. "Mom said he did just days before." Oh how I smiled at the thought of that.

And you know, when it comes to leading the lost to Christ, the Bible is clear that you and I should be gracious in our "conversation" with "outsiders," practicing wisdom in the way we salt our words. What does that mean exactly? Consider this. Our words have the power to lead people to Jesus or to turn them away. If we come on too strong or salty, the Message may not be flavorful. However, when we sprinkle the Message lightly, as I did with my friend over the eight-year period of our friendship, our words will be perfectly palatable for them to swallow, yet salty enough to make them thirst to hear more. 

So "make the most of every opportunity" you have to lead others to Christ my friend. But be wise and discerning of each individuals' readiness and capability to hear the Good News - and salt your words accordingly. But most importantly, don't give up no matter how long it takes. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that the same approach of witnessing does not work for everyone. Help us to be so sensitive to your Spirit that we would only speak the words that You have called us to speak ensuring that our conversation is seasoned "just right." It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!

Tell the world

Remember the benefits

"Praise the LORD, my soul, and forget not all his benefits--" Psalm 103:2 NIV

In a recent article published by Men's Health Magazine, Mark Cucuzzella, M.D., professor at West Virginia University School of Medicine and author of Run for Your Life said there were both immediate and long term benefits to be gained from running. And the six primary benefits, or advantages, he listed were a sharper brain, a stronger cardiovascular system, a lower risk of diabetes, fewer jacked-up joints, a decreased chance of developing-or dying-of cancer, and a slowdown of the aging process. Wow. Those are pretty good reasons to become a runner, don't you think?

And you know, when it comes to benefits, or good things gained, King David beseeched us to never forget to praise the Lord for the many benefits He bestows upon us when we choose to follow and draw close to Him - benefits such as the forgiveness of sins, redemption from death, being crowned with love and compassion, satisfied desires, righteousness and justice, restored strength and the Father’s compassion and grace. You and I received all of these benefits without deserving any of them my friend. And yet how often do we remember to thank Him? 

In all reality, the benefits of being a child of the King are so great, I'm not sure you and I could ever thank Him enough... nor praise Him enough. But we should most definitely try!

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that becoming a Christian comes with so many benefits. And while it's easy to take these benefits for granted, help us to never do so. Please prompt us daily to bring to mind all the good things You have given us that we would be unable to keep from singing your praises. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

How Can I Keep From Singing?

It takes a family

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:11 NIV

On April 28, 48-Year-Old Virginia Mom, Perry Shoemaker, became the second-oldest woman to qualify for the Olympic Trials when she crossed the finish line of the Eugene Marathon in 2:43:33. And although Perry worked very hard and made a lot of sacrifices to accomplish this feat, she attributes the majority of her success to the support of her family saying, “I think he [her husband] almost had a stronger belief in my ability to do this than I did at times. I couldn’t do any of this without my husband’s support and my daughters’ support through the whole thing. Their belief in me? It’s been great.”

And you know, when it comes to obtaining any goal, it's no secret that a person who has a family supporting them has a much better chance of succeeding than someone who doesn't. Paul certainly understood this which is why he urged the people at the church at Thessalonica to "encourage one another and build each other up..." You see, although these followers of Christ might have shared biological "family" units within the church, the members of the church were also a "family" - connected by a shared love for the Lord and a desire to follow Him and spread the Gospel. And the support of their church "family" is the very thing each follower needed to stay focused, committed and unwavering in their mission to grow in the faith and preach the Good News. 

And you know what? You and I are just like those people at Thessalonica my friend. In order to be all that we are called to be and to go out and make disciples of all nations as we are commanded, we need the encouragement and edification that only our church family can provide. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that no Christian can succeed in their mission without the support of other believers. Help us to work together Lord in the way you have designed the church to work that we might achieve great things for the Kingdom and lead the lost to the foot of the Cross in record numbers. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

We Are Your Church

Childlike faith

"Then Jesus called for the children and said to the disciples, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. " Luke 18:16 NLT

With only 10 minutes to go until the start of the kids one-mile fun run I was helping to organize at our local park Saturday, I was concerned that no children were lined up at the pavilion where the race was set to begin. Realizing the start line was quite a ways from the main festivities of the National Kids to Park Day Celebration up the hill, I asked my friend, Julie, who was also helping, "Do you think they realize we're down here?" "Probably not," she replied. "I'll go call them to come down." And sure enough, upon hearing about the race, a group of smiling children eagerly rushed down with time to spare. 

And you know, as I later watched these kids enthusiastically running along the course talking and laughing without a care in the world, I understood why Jesus would call the children to him and say, "For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children." He was reminding us that those who wanted to come to Him would need to do it with the same childlike humility, faith, and simplicity that children have. You see, children don't need to know all the answers. They don't need to know how their parents will provide for them or how they will keep them safe - they simply trust they will, and that's good enough for them... and it should be good enough for us too. 

I wonder, do you have child-like faith today? The faith that says, "I don't know what my tomorrow holds, but I do know Who is holding my tomorrow?" I sure hope so my friend, because that will allow you to also say, "I don't need to know anything else. I completely and whole-heartedly trust you Father." 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the much needed reminder that as a child of the King, I don't need to worry about what the future holds only that You will be with me each and every day. You will be there to protect me, comfort me, guide me and provide for all my needs. And for that I say thank You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Faith Like a Child - Jars of Clay

Be the best employee

"Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people." Colossians 3:23 NLT

Want your boss to think you're smarter? Well a new study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine says a morning bout of exercise like a quick run or bike ride could actually improve cognitive performance like decision making throughout the day, most definitely making you appear smarter to your employer. The brain benefits, the study went on to show, are likely due to an increase in brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF), which was higher in people who did morning exercise than those who didn’t. The study also showed that taking brief walking breaks to break up sitting time throughout the day led to an even bigger brain boost which would make you an even better employee. 

And while appearing smarter might definitely win us accolades and appreciation from our bosses, do you know what would make us the best employees we could be? Working, as the Bible commands us, “willingly" at "whatever" it is we do. And we do this by regarding our work as an act of service to God and not to men - being faithful servants in "whatever" position we are in knowing God has personally and intentionally placed us there for a reason. And that reason is to show His love to those around us and bring Him glory. 

So may you and I strive to be the best employees we can be my friend - performing our duties with a smile on our face, joy in our hearts, a song on our lips, and with a work ethic committed to excellence - not only to please our employer but to please the Father and lead those around us to do the same. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that how we do "whatever" job you have placed us in is about much more than making our employers happy. It's about using our position to be a light in a dark world and lead others to You. Help us to see our positions as a way to serve and worship You by the way in which we work Lord. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Do Everything

Communicate properly

"But now you must put aside all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your mouth." Colossians 3:18 BSB

After winning the Great Stirling Marathon in Scotland on April 29, Jennifer Wetton was excited about collecting the £1000 the race's website promised the winner. But upon learning that the prize money had been cut down to £200 after the event, Jennifer said, "It would have been nice if they had communicated things properly from the start, so we had all the information before we made the decision to take part." In response to Jennifer's complaint, A Great Run Company spokeswoman said, "We apologise that this information was not publicly available sooner and it was an oversight on our part that it was not posted on the website before the event." Sounds like bad communication was to blame.

And you know when it comes to communication, or the imparting of information, the Bible is clear that we are to put aside, "anger, rage, malice, slander and filthy language." That means you and I should never speak rash, mean, untrue, or ungodly words that are intended to hurt someone else or ruin their reputation. And while most Christians try to watch what they say out loud, many, emboldened by the safety of a computer screen or smartphone, feel free to vent and rant via social media - something that is not only detrimental to their witness but to the church as a whole.

So in our communication with others, whether it be spoken or written, may our words be kind and uplifting. After all, our words have the power to lead people closer to Jesus or drive them away.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that our words have great power and that as believers we have to be extremely careful in the way we deal with others. Help us to gain an unquenchable desire to read the Word every day that we would grow so close to You that our words would be a reflection of our love for You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

May the words of my mouth - Ellie Holcomb

Back onto the right path

"Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself. " Galatians 6:1 NLT

"I'm still not smoking," one of the patients at the medical office where I work part-time said when he came in the door yesterday evening. With a big smile on his face, he then added, "Do you know that today marks four months that I haven't smoked? And I have you to thank. You're the only one who cared enough to keep pointing out the reasons I needed to quit. You never said it mean though. That's the reason I listened." Smiling back at him, I simply said, "Aww... I just love you." And you know what? I truly do love every one of the patients we treat, so much so that I will do whatever it takes to get them "back onto the right path." 

And when it comes to a fellow believer who has been "overcome by some sin,” the Bible is clear that you and I are to help them get “back onto the right path.” How? By "gently and humbly" pointing out the transgression to “that person,” using the Word to confirm our conviction, and then helping them come to repentance and restoration. But guess what? Most of us, for fear of offending “that person,” aren't doing what we are commanded to do. And that is just not acceptable. 

My friend, you and I have to love our "brothers and sisters" so much that we would willfully risk losing their friendship at the sake of leading them back "onto the right path” - thus keeping them from experiencing the consequences that come from straying. After all, isn't that what friends are for? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that we are to love our brothers and sisters so much that, if they have fallen into sin, we would do whatever it takes to lead them back to You. Help us to fear disobeying this command more than upsetting a fellow believer who has strayed. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Back to God - Reba McEntire

Turn around

"One who wanders from the way of good sense will rest in the assembly of the dead." Proverbs 21:16 ESV

One of the things I love most about going out of town is being able to run in new places. Rather than planning my routes, I simply decide how long my run is going to be and then wander aimlessly through the streets the first half - turning to go wherever my eyes and heart lead me - and then use my GPS the last half to find my way back home. And while I'd like to say this way of doing things is always a success, it isn't. I've many times found myself turning onto streets that left me questioning my own safety. 

And you know, when it comes to wandering aimlessly, the Bible is clear that the "one who wanders from the way of good sense will rest in the assembly of the dead." And while most of us don't wander away on purpose, many of us will find ourselves, or already have found ourselves, in a place where we are in danger of being separated from God because of our bad judgment and wrong choices. But guess what? You don't have to stay in that place! No one does. The Bible tells us that if we repent and turn back from our sinful ways, we will be forgiven and welcomed back home. 

And you know what that means my friend? It means that rather than spending eternity in hell, you will spend eternity with Jesus! Isn't that the best news you've ever heard? But only you can make the decision to turn around and come home. What will you decide?

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that no matter how far a person has wandered away from You, You will always welcome them back. Help us to be Your hands and feet Jesus and to boldly go and proclaim this message wherever and whenever You call us that those who have lost their way can turn around and run back home. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!  

Turn around - Matt Maher

The proper footwear

"For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared." Ephesians 6:15 NLT

With summer quickly approaching, many runners will soon be donning their flip-flops. And while this type of flimsy footwear might help us keep cool, Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, a podiatrist and spokeswoman for the American Podiatric Medical Association, tells us why we should opt for a better shoe. “Flip-flops don’t provide any support. There’s no structure. Your feet have to work much harder to grip the flip-flop.That means you’re overusing your muscles, especially in the posterior compartment of the leg, where a lot of your running muscles are located. If your feet are working so hard during the day, then you go for a run, it’s extra stress on all your muscles and ligaments.” Thankfully though, that doesn't mean runners can't wear sandals at all, she went on to say, they just need to opt for ones that have structure like Birkenstocks or Chacos.

And speaking of footwear that’s good for us, did you know the Bible is very specific about the shoes you and I should be wearing? Saying, "for shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared." Prepared for what though? Prepared to dig deep and stand firm in the spiritual battles we will face in life. This means you and I have to spend time in the Word and in prayer each and every day that we might grow in the knowledge of the gospel. You see, it’s only through this deep and intimate awareness of the Truth that you and I learn to truly trust God - a trust that grants us perfect “peace” and strength to endure and persevere when we are hard-pressed and attacked from every side. 

So be intentional about your footwear my friend and be sure to properly shod yourself daily. After all, if you and I aren't standing firm in the knowledge that the Word is true, we might lose our footing and fall victim to the lies and assaults of the enemy. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the timely reminder that having the proper footwear is crucial in our mission to stand firm that we might be able to tell others about the Good News of the gospel. Help us to have an urgency to grow in the knowledge of the Truth so that we would have the peace to boldly go wherever we are called, not content to rest until the whole world hears the Message. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Until the Whole World Hears - Casting Crowns

We may never understand

"'As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him." John 9:1-3 NIV

Runner's World Magazine recently published an article titled, Today's Runners Will Never Understand These Old-School Struggles, in which they listed 11 things runners today might not ever comprehend - things like running with ankle weights (a fad that was totally dangerous), using landmarks and time to mentally calculate your exact pace because there were no GPS watches, not fueling or hydrating during races because experts said you shouldn't, having nothing to drink but water and Gatorade, and running in a 100% cotton outfit (can you say chafing?). 

And when it comes to listing things we, as believers, might never understand, the reason Christians are allowed to suffer is probably number one. I mean, what follower hasn’t asked the question, "Why would a God who loves us let us experience pain, affliction or sadness?" The truth is, you and I might never know all the reasons this side of heaven. But we do know this... as was in the case with the blind man, when a Christian undergoes suffering, God will use it to be glorified and lead others to Him. 

I don't know about you my friend but the thought that our suffering is never in vain brings me great hope and comfort. So much comfort, in fact, that I will choose to sing in the middle of the storm. How about you? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that suffering is a part of our Christian walk. But a part that we can rejoice in knowing that our temporary pain and trials will serve to bring us closer to You, prepare us for service and bring You glory. Thank You for being with us during these times Lord. Help us to know we are not abandoned.  It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Raise A Hallelujah

Just one

"He himself is the sacrifice that atones for our sins—and not only our sins but the sins of all the world." 1 John 2:2 NLT

With the busyness of preparing for upcoming graduations and end-of-school functions, I wasn't surprised when the usual participants of the Thursday night run group I'm blessed to teach at our local health department hadn't shown up. "Oh well," I thought to myself as I grabbed my keys. "I'll see them all next week." But just as I began to turn off the lights to leave, I heard a knock at the door. "Francis!" I said. "I'm so glad you're here! Come on in." Quickly realizing that none of the other runners were there, Francis said, "Oh you don't have to teach the class tonight, not for one person." "Of course I do!" I responded. "If there were 100 people or just one, I would most definitely do it." 

And can I let you in on a little secret? Jesus, who died on the cross to free "all the world" from the guilt and punishment of their sins, would have voluntarily and willingly suffered and died for the sins of just one person. It's true. He loves each and every one of us that much - and not just those who love Him back my friend. He loves the drug addict, the prostitute, the murderer, the thief, the adulterer and all those who have pushed Him away and cursed Him. Honestly, can you imagine a love so great? 

But guess what? It's no secret that as believers you and I are called to love others the same way Jesus loves us. And that means we are to love the lost, those who persecute us and those who might never love us back - with a love so great they would come to know Jesus because of it. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that You love us with a love so great that it might appear reckless to those who don't understand who You are. Help us to love others in the same way Lord that we might change our world for the better and lead the lost to the foot of the Cross. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Reckless Love-Cory Asbury

Embrace discomfort

"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness." James 1:2,3 ESV

For years runners have known that taking an ice bath immediately following a hard workout was one of the most effective ways of reducing delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS) and shortening recovery time. But now, researchers say there are benefits to taking cold showers too. Not only will cold showers help remove lactic acid more efficiently than a warm shower, they say, but taking them often could make you tougher mentally. Any time you can force yourself to withstand a physically uncomfortable situation (one that doesn’t threaten your safety, obviously), it forces you to toughen up. “If you can suck it up and stand in a cold shower, it makes you think, what other uncomfortable situations can you push through? Those last reps in your strength workout? The final kick of a marathon?” Developing your mental strength is just as important as building physical strength, and this could be one of the easiest ways to do it.

And you know, having mental strength could also be defined as having a steadfast, resolute or dutifully firm and unwavering way of thinking - the kind of thinking that says, "I will remain loyal, faithful, committed, and devoted to following Christ no matter what." Ironically this mental "steadfastness" is only formed when you and I go through “trials of various kinds." You see, the more you and I encounter and overcome uncomfortable situations, the more we toughen up - which causes us to develop the grit and conviction to say, "No matter what happens, I will never back down." 

Perhaps you're in an uncomfortable situation today? One that might be so uncomfortable that it has you on the verge of giving up? Don't do it my friend! “Count it all joy” instead and embrace each trial knowing they are working to make your faith stronger. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that we can be joyful in trials because your Word tells us that we are purified, refined and made more like You by them. Help us to remain firm and unwavering in our faith when we are faced with these uncomfortable situations - that others might see this unwavering faith and come to know You because of it. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Hard Love - Needtobreathe

The former days

“Don't say, "Why were the former days better than these?" since it is not wise of you to ask this.” Ecclesiastes 7:10 CSB

Isn't that just like the devil? Here I was happy to finally be out on the trail again, after nursing a hamstring strain for four weeks, and the voice in my head says “So what if you’re running? Look how slow you are. Do you even call that running? You could've done double that mileage in the same time a month ago.” Recognizing the enemy’s attempt to steal my joy, I shouted out loud, “You know what? Who cares!” I then thought to myself, “I will celebrate what I can do today and not be sad for what I can’t.” And then, once again realizing how truly good God is, how much I had missed being outside breathing in the crisp spring air as I listened to the birds sing His praises, and what a gift the day and my ability to run again was I began to cry...  saying over and over, "Thank you Jesus, thank you Jesus, thank you Jesus."

You know, life changes. It’s just a fact. Each one of us is aging. And as this process we have no control over takes place, you and I will find that many of the things we used to do with ease now require more effort and more recovery time. But you know, we have two options when these inevitable changes take place - we can choose to thank God for the things we can do or lament over the things we can’t and ask, “Why were the former days better than these?” A question the Bible clearly tells us is unwise because it robs us of today’s joy and our ability to see each day for what it is... an undeserved gift.

So let me ask you a question. Regardless of your situation, have you taken the time to thank God for the air in your lungs today? For another day that is not deserved? If you haven’t, right now is a great time to do it - because, truly, today is a blessing my friend.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that life is short at best and we should make the best use of the time we have. Help us to never give up in our pursuit to bring You glory Lord, no matter how age or injury might change the way we do it. And may we always choose to count our blessings no matter what our situation might be. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Counting Every Blessing - Rend Collective

Always plan to finish

"Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Let those of us who are mature think this way..." Philippians 3:13-15 ESV

Two days before famed ultra runner Jim Walmsley was set to compete in the HOKA One One 100k Challenge, a special event created for the launch of HOKA’s new Carbon X shoe, he offered ten tips from training, to fueling, to in-race strategy, "to up your ultra game." And while I would agree that all of his tips were useful, one piece of advice was especially so, "Do be resilient. Control what you can. Brush off what you can't. Stay positive and always plan to finish." And guess what? By following his own advice, Walmsley set a new 50-mile world best mark and finished fourth overall in the 100k.

And you know, if resilience can be defined as toughness and the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties, resilience is the very trait that not only makes for a successful ultra runner, but is crucial to the success of our Christian walk. Paul certainly understood this. After all, he had been beaten, imprisoned and shipwrecked. He had endured hunger, sleepless nights and many other struggles as well on numerous occasions. But get this... Paul was resilient! He never entertained the thought of giving up. Through every difficulty, Paul continued to say, "forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on...." No matter what, Paul would continue to run the race.

So may you and I, like Paul, always plan to finish the race. Let us make the decision to be resilient in every situation, brushing off those things we can't control and pressing on in the midst of difficulties, completely positive, or ever-confident, that "the prize" for doing so will most certainly be worth the toil and pain we encounter along the way.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that the Christian race will not be an easy one. There will be difficulties and obstacles in our way, some that may even be nearly unbearable. Through it all Lord, let us stay positive knowing that our efforts will one day be rewarded. And for that, let us keep pressing on with our eyes on the finish line, completely determined to do whatever it takes to reach it. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Victory - Third Day

Words can wound

"Thoughtless words can wound as deeply as any sword, but wisely spoken words can heal. " Proverbs 12:18 GNT

In what I can only describe as sad, Fox News reported recently that many runners competing in the London Marathon on April 28 endured taunts about their weight and speed. Liz Ayres, who paced runners to finish in 7.5 hours, claims contractors and volunteer marshals were the worst offenders as she led her group to the finish line.“I had runners that were crying - ones saying they were going to go home and quit,” Ayres told the BBC. Ayres even claimed that as early as three miles into the race, the water stations along the course had been packed away, and that one runner was injured by a cleaning solution used by crews who allegedly told the group to “hurry up” so that they could clear the streets quicker. She told the news outlet that the pacer leading runners to finish in 6.5 hours experienced similar taunts.

And while I would like to say that the cruelness of the people who voiced these "thoughtless words" surprises me, it doesn't. We live in a world where empathy, or the ability to understand and share the feelings of another, seems to be lost. Why? Because we live in a world that desperately needs Jesus - a world where people, without the Holy Spirit to spur them to love others so that they would speak only healing words, feel free to say whatever they please no matter how deeply it hurts someone else. 

Sadly though, you and I don’t have the ability to silence the gossipers and bullies that seem to find great pleasure in wounding us with their words. But we do have the ability to tell these people, who are most likely victims of careless words themselves, about their need for Jesus, the One who has the ability to heal their hearts and change their speech. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that thoughtless words really do wound as deeply as any sword. Knowing that, may we always look for opportunities to speak words that can heal. And Lord, knowing that people who taunt others are almost always victims of taunting themselves, I pray they would have an encounter with You and be healed. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

History Maker-Delirious