He remains faithful

"if we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself." 2 Timothy 2:13 BSB

Day after day my neighbors' dog Whiskers (a cute little brown mutt) shows up on my porch well before dawn to see if I'll come out for a run. And while most mornings I do take off from home and run with him before heading into work, there are many days I either cross train or drive into town to run leaving poor Whiskers all alone, staring as I drive away. But you know what? My unfaithfulness to this sweet canine never affects his faithfulness to me. I can always count on him to be there waiting for me. 

And you know, as faithful as this sweet puppy is, there is some One who is much more faithful and that some One is Jesus Christ. You see, as much as I hate to admit it, there have been times in my life where I have felt utterly faithless. Times when I struggled to understand the reasons 'why' certain things were allowed to happen and times when I even questioned the Lord's existence. But you know what? Even in those times when I felt faithless, God remained faithful. That's just who God is. And, thankfully for you and me, He will never change being that way “for He cannot deny Himself.”

So in those difficult times when you seem to have no faith left, take heart my friend. God not only knows what you need but is by your side and ever faithful to provide it. He will never leave you alone and is always waiting to take you back--something you can always count on.  

Heavenly Father, thank You for sticking by our side in those times when we turn away. Forgive us for our times of unbelief Lord and remind us once again of your faithfulness. Help us to stay faithful at all times Lord. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

He is Faithful

Make God your guide

"Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long." Psalm 25:4,5 NIV

On September 28, The 41st Day, a new documentary following American distance-runner Ryan Hall’s journey from teenage prodigy to record-setting marathoner, debuted in New York City. The film follows Hall through his early days as a cross country runner to his career as a professional runner and chronicles a decision that changed the course of Hall's life... In 2010, two years after Hall placed 10th at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the runner—who is a devout Christian—announced he was parting ways with his coach, Terrence Mahon, and letting God direct his training moving forward. According to the film, he made the decision after feeling like he didn’t have the same motivation or external support in training like he used to. The change seemed to pay off: in 2011, he set the American course record at Boston (2:04:58). Wow! Talk about how getting the proper guidance can lead to success.

And you know, you and I can look to books, people, and even to the web for advice on everything from running to relationships to what to make for dinner but we will never get any better guidance than the counsel we seek from the Lord. King David, a man of many advisors and consultants, clearly understood this and so said, "Show me your ways, Lord... Guide me in your truth and teach me..." You see, David understood that God was the ultimate authority over his life and knew what was best for him--giving him guidance both by the Word and by His divine direction. 

And you know, things haven't changed since David's day. God still gives us the best advice we could ever ask for and always speaks Truth. So seek His will and guidance above anyone else's my friend and allow Him to direct your steps each and every day. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that you are the ultimate Counselor with a track record of providing the perfect guidance one-hundred-percent of the time. Knowing that Lord, help us to seek You and your will for our lives both in the small things and in the big. Help us Father to be in constant communion with You so that even taking a right turn or left turn is a decision we allow the Spirit to determine. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Show me Your ways - Hillsong Worship

The sweetest smell

"Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing." 2 Corinthians 2:15 NLT

Oh the smells of fall! I don't know about you but the fragrances of this season conjure up so many memories, like warming myself by the fire before the Dogwood Canyon trail run, the crisp air around me as I ran through the night of a hundred-mile race in Carthage and standing at the starting line of countless early morning races. And it seems I'm not the only one who loves the "smell of running" and the feelings and memories those aromas evoke. Katie Arnold, an ultrarunner and author of the new memoir Running Home said, "These scents, acrid and sweet, create an amalgamated “smell of running” that, while unique for every athlete, is surprisingly universal from the gear, events, and trails we share. We recognize the smell of running like a second nature... But I wonder if we could describe it to an outsider." 

And you know, it's true. Runners indeed associate smells with races or running experiences they have had, something that an outsider, or non-runner, might indeed not understand nor find pleasing to their nostrils. Incidentally, there's another fragrance that "is perceived differently” by different people as well. And that's the aroma of a Christian's life. You see, when believers like you and me share the Good News, it is a life-saving fragrance and the sweet smell of victory to those who accept Christ but for those who reject Him it is the repulsive odor of death and defeat. 

So knowing that many people we witness to will find the aroma of the Message disgusting and maybe even revolting, let us be prepared to share it anyway, anytime we have a chance. After all, if even one person finds the Good News to be the sweetest smell they have ever inhaled, it will have been well worth the time and effort. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the timely reminder that those who find the Gospel nauseating aren't rejecting us but rejecting You. Make us bold witnesses to the Truth Lord and willing to experience that rejection so that even one person might share in the aroma that every believer knows is the sweetest smell in the world. It truly is so sweet to trust in You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Tis so Sweet - Casting Crowns

God can change anyone

"Brothers and sisters, my heart's desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved." Romans 10:1 NIV

"So this just happened," my friend, Rob, messaged me earlier this week. "I was praying with my bro Scott via phone via Bluetooth out in front of Walmart. Passionate travailing. Soon I was surrounded by three Walmart security employees." After laughing, I asked him what happened next to which he said, "Apparently some customers didn't recognize what I was doing. With my headphones on and my phone in my pocket, and my passionate loudness and robust beard, I looked like a possible threat." And after explaining to security that he was not crazy or a threat but merely a man who was passionate about the Lord and praying, he said they let him go. Hearing this story though, would you believe that Rob only recently began a life of prayer and says that from 2008-2018 he was running away from God, ever spiraling down a road of addiction? But as Rob’s story shows, when he surrendered to the Lord, his life completely changed and Rob has never been the same.

And you know, Rob would totally agree with me in saying that if God can change him, He can change anyone—something the Bible gives examples of time and again. Consider Paul (formerly Saul). He was a man who was also running away from Jesus, persecuting followers of the Way to their death, arresting and throwing both men and women into prison. But from the moment Paul surrendered his life to the Lord, he was never the same. In fact, Paul was so changed that his new "heart's desire" became seeing the Israelites saved —spending the rest of his life not only in passionate prayer for the people he once sought to kill to but praying for the Gentiles to receive Jesus’ gift of eternal life as well. 

So if you're still thinking that God couldn't possibly use you or redeem your life, think again my friend. God can and will use anyone that stops running and surrenders their life to Him, regardless of their past. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for being a God of forgiveness and a God who can take even the worst of sinners and clean them up to be used in ways that demonstrate your grace, mercy and divine plan. Lord, if there's anyone reading this that has not surrendered their life to You, I pray today would be the day they say, "Lord, I give you my life... all of it. Take it and use it for Your glory." It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!! 

I Surrender All - Casting Crowns

Lord prepare me

"Then the LORD told Moses, “Go down and prepare the people for my arrival. Consecrate them today and tomorrow, and have them wash their clothing. Be sure they are ready on the third day, for on that day the LORD will come down on Mount Sinai as all the people watch." Exodus 19:10,11

Waking up before sunrise Sunday, I poured myself a cup of coffee and then settled in for my normal morning Bible study before heading out the door for a much-needed run. And I say much-needed because my Sunday runs are a much-needed time to make my heart ready for worship later at church... something that is extremely important to me. You see, these runs when I’m all alone on the trail with the Lord, praise music softly playing through my earbuds, are the times I relish in His presence and prepare my heart to meet Him later in worship service by first thanking Him for all that He has done, for all that He is to me, and acknowledging that it is only by His grace that I will soon have the undeserved privilege of entering the house of the Creator of the universe. 

And you know, church is not just a building with four walls but a place where God's Spirit resides. And while many people enter into its' doors flippantly and without reverence for the One who dwells there, I don't want to be one of them. You see, the Bible is very clear that our hearts should be ready to experience God's presence before we enter into worship, something the Lord clearly stated to Moses when He said, "Go down and prepare the people for my arrival. Consecrate them.. have them wash their clothing.. Be sure they are ready..." And we make ourselves ready by setting apart much-needed time beforehand to remind ourselves that God is a holy God, a God deserving of our utmost respect and worship, and that we, no matter how many times "wash" our clothing, are still dirty sinners and only allowed to enter into God's sanctuary because of His amazing grace. 

So the next time you're getting ready to enter God's house, won't you take the extra time to really prepare? To spend some time alone with the Father and say, "Lord, I know I'm a sinner and that it's only by your grace that I can enter through the doors of my church today. Would you please open my heart to experience the fullness of your love and to worship with a heart fully aware of the sacrifice that allows me to do so?"

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of grace and mercy. Thank You for Jesus' sacrifice on the cross that gives us eternal life rather than the death sentence we are due. Oh Lord, prepare our hearts each and every day to worship you as we should and especially before we enter into church to worship alongside our fellow believers. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Sanctuary - Lord Prepare Me

No judgement zones

"You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge another, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things." Romans 2:1 NIV

"Oh I like your shoes!" I said to Julie, our new intern at work. Looking down at her open-toed sandals and then at mine, she chuckled and said, "Oh thank you. It's so good to know that I'm in a judgement free toe-zone." At that statement, we both started laughing. And you know why it was so funny? Because both Julie and I are runners and we both have missing toenails. So for us to judge one another would be crazy, don't you think? 

And you know, when it comes to judging others who do the same things you and I do, the Bible tells us that we have no excuse for doing it, "for at whatever point" you and I "judge another," we are sentencing our own selves to punishment. You see, the sins we notice most often in other people are usually the same sins we ourselves commit, just in more socially acceptable forms. For instance, you and I might judge someone for lying about a ‘big’ thing when we continually lie about ‘little’ things. They're both sins and so condemn us to death. 

So be careful not to "pass judgement on someone else" my friend. We are all sinners in need of God's saving grace and should leave the judgement to Him. After all, how can we be witnesses to others when we are busy judging them?

Heavenly Father, thank You for daily reminders of the Truth. Help us to love others rather than judge them Lord knowing that we are sinners as well. Help us to love like You Lord so that we might lead the lost to the foot of the Cross. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Love One Another - Newsboys

Take me back

"You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you, declares the LORD, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you, declares the LORD, and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile." Jeremiah 29:13,14 ESV

in an article recently posted by Runner's World Magazine, Jordan Smith wrote, "Let’s face it: logging mile after mile can get to be a lot. Maybe you’re training for a fall race or chasing a PR and it’s not clicking, then a day turns into one month where you’re zapped of your energy—suddenly, you’re in a slump. So, what do you do when something you once loved suddenly turns into a chore?" You change the scenery of course was one answer followed by set a goal, run for fun, rely on friends, take a break, find joy in cross-training, treat yourself to new gear, and my favorite... remember why you run. 

And you know, running isn't the only place you and I might experience a slump or downturn in our performance or attitude. Sometimes we can experience slumps, or times we feel distant from the Lord, in our prayer life as well - making prayer feel more like a chore or an item on our to-do list rather than the awesome privilege or special right we have to come before the Father. Thankfully though, getting through those slumps is as simple as urgently seeking the Lord. You see, when you and I seek to find the Lord and restore our relationship with Him, He will always bring us back. 

So if you've found yourself in a spiritual slump today, take time to pray, "Father God, please take me back to the place I first met You and rekindle the love I once had for You." After all, as Harry Emerson Fosdick wrote, "The man who misses the deep meaning of prayer has not so much refused an obligation; he has robbed himself of life’s supreme privilege – friendship with God.”

Heavenly Father, thank You for being such a patient God and a God that will always take us back. Help us to truly understand that so we might know that You are the best friend we could ever have. Oh Lord, rekindle our love for You and set it ablaze so that others would see the way we shine and be drawn to You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!! 

Take Me Back - Meredith Andrews

The Happy Ending

"The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my sheep." John 21:17 NIV

After signing up for the Worcester City Half Marathon, Sheila Pereira, 42, of Worcester, Massachusetts started training for the race that took place this past Sunday in Worchester, England. But despite the fact that Sheila unintentionally signed up for a race that was 3,200 miles away, she didn't let the mistake keep her down. Pereira, who admitted her error upon learning of the snafu, ran the 13.1 miles in her hometown on the same day as the English event and won the praise of the U.K. organisers who were happy to send her a race finishers pack complete with a participation medal and T-shirt. Now how's that for a happy ending?

And you know, just as the story shows, you and I don't have to let one mistake keep us from running the race - something Peter thankfully came to find out. You see, soon after vowing that he would never disown Jesus, Peter made the biggest mistake of his life. He denied Jesus three times leading him to weep bitterly over his blunder, no doubt thinking he could never be forgiven for such a grievous error. Thankfully though, Peter quickly repented and was soon restored after vowing his complete love and devotion to Jesus, going on to be one of the greatest and most faithful disciples of all time. 

So if you've made a few mistakes recently and think you'll never be allowed to see the finish line, think again. God can and will restore you completely if you will simply confess and repent of your sin. That means every person's story can have a happy ending... even yours’ my friend. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for being a God of second, third, and even one thousandth chances. Help us to remember that our mistakes don't have to define us or derail us. When we fall and fail Lord, even when we do it repeatedly, give us the strength to get back up again and again reminding us that You can and will forgive us if we would only ask. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Up Again - Dan Bremnes

Avoid Comparisons

"For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10 NIV

In the world of running, it's hard not to compare ourselves to others isn't it? I mean, the moment you and I cross the finish line of any race, our names are forever linked to the place and time in which we finished. Knowing that, I love how Jane McGuire responded to the question, "What is a ‘good’ half marathon time?" by writing, "Of course, there's no such thing as a 'good' time - every race is a personal achievement and every runner should have different goals on the start line..." In other words, we need to stop comparing ourselves to others - a 'good' race is one in which you and I achieve the goal we personally set for ourselves. 

And you know, runners aren't the only people who compare themselves to others. Christians can also be caught up in measuring their worth by comparing the gifts God has given them to serve with someone else's. For instance, one person might consider their ability to serve in the nursery small compared to another person's ability to teach a large Bible study group. But you know what? You and I were uniquely and individually created "in advance" to do "good works" as unique as the way we were created. That means, we are each designed to do different things for the Kingdom... and every job matters. 

So knowing we are "God's handiwork," perfectly and uniquely crafted by our Creator to fulfill a specific purpose, may you and I serve joyfully wherever God has placed us without comparing our 'good' works or gifts with those of others. After all, God looks at how well we have used the things He has given us rather than how big our accomplishments are in the eyes of the world. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that each one of us has been "prepared in advance" to serve you in our own unique way. Help us to set our goals based on that knowledge Lord and to serve you to the absolute best of our ability exactly as You have called us to serve. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!

Heaven on Earth - Stars Go Dim

Love is Action

"All of you together are Christ’s body, and each of you is a part of it." 1 Corinthians 12:27 NLT

I nearly cried Sunday afternoon when I received a text from my dear friend, Sara, regarding her daughter, Karmi, a sweet little girl I've watched grow up in pictures. "Today Karmi learned what it looks like to be the hands and feet of Jesus," she wrote. "She helped hand out lunches downtown to the homeless. She is so happy today!" Sara went on to explain that her church in Florida hands out these lunches once a month. And while she and her daughter had been preparing the meals for the past nine months, seven-year-old Karmi decided that today was the day she wanted to personally deliver them. At this revelation, Sara looked at her daughter and said, "This is what it means to be the hands and feet of Jesus. This makes His heart smile.

But what does it mean exactly to be the hands and feet of Jesus you might wonder? It simply means communicating the love of Christ to the people He created through both words and actions - something we must leave the comfort of our homes and church walls to do. You see, as individual followers of Jesus Christ and united members of "Christ's body" of believers, you and I have a responsibility and a calling to go out into the world to love, serve and minister to the "least of these" and all those in need. 

So if you're waiting for the right time or the perfect opportunity to step out to show the love of Jesus to the lost, look around my friend. Today is the day and the opportunities are everywhere. This is a call to action. Will you answer it? 

Heavenly Father, open up our eyes to the needs of those around us. Draw us to places and people who need to see your love in action and feel your compassion. Help us to love like You loved Lord and to selflessly serve in the same way You served so that You would be glorified and others would be drawn to You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Love is Action - Tauren Wells

Christ has no body now but yours. No hands, no feet on earth but yours. Yours are the eyes through which he looks compassion on this world. Yours are the feet with which he walks to do good. Yours are the hands through which he blesses all the world. Yours are the hands, yours are the feet, yours are the eyes, you are his body. Christ has no body now on earth but yours. - Teresa of Avila

* Go to https://www.theumbrellawomen.com/ to find out more ways you can volunteer and serve. This ministry hands out lunches once a month but does so much more.  

When God moves us

"And Saul approved of their killing him. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria." Acts 8:1 NIV

Forced to walk the running interval portions  of the Couch to 5k program I was teaching last week, my friend, Jacquie, expressed her frustration, "I just hate being injured," she said. "I'd so like to be running right now. But this did make me sign up at the YMCA so I can cross-train." "Well," I replied. "I most definitely feel your pain when it comes to enduring forced time off. But I know God has used interruptions like these in my life to place me in specific places to encounter someone who needed to hear the Good News. Perhaps that's why you're at the YMCA? Maybe there's a person there that needs to hear about Jesus?" Smiling, she looked at me and said, "Yes, I believe that person is my sister. I guess not being able to run isn't so bad after all." 

And you know what? Jacquie is right. Being 'forced' to go somewhere we don't want to go due to an injury or other painful set of circumstances isn't always so bad. Consider the early church. The Bible tells us that it was growing rapidly. But it was only when "a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria" that the Gospel began its' spread to the ends of the earth. 

So you see, sometimes it takes persecution or suffering to get us to move out of our comfort zones and into places we would not have ventured otherwise. And while you and I may not enjoy undergoing this pain, distress or hardship, we can keep a joyful heart during the process knowing that God might very well be placing us in the exact place we need to be to share the Good News with someone. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that nothing that You do is ever in vain. Help us to patiently endure suffering as we look past our pain and to the way You can be glorified through it. Lord, please cause us to remember that we are not put on this earth to simply enjoy our days but to be your servants and messengers of the Gospel. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Reason - Unspoken

God never disappoints us

"And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love." Romans 5:5 NLT

On September 6, the organizers of the English Half Marathon in Cheshire, England canceled their 13.1 mile race just six days before the event was to take place saying, "This decision is a difficult one for us to take, as we know that you have dedicated yourself to your training and possibly fundraising over a number of months and to hear this message at the beginning of race week will be a blow to many.” To say it was an epic disappointment would be an understatement with one runner tweeting, "6 days before a race. I think those who entered deserve a clear and thorough explanation of why. "safety reasons" doesn't really explain anything. A real shame as this is a very good race."

And you know, in an imperfect world, there will always be imperfect people and unforeseen and unfair circumstances that will dash our hopes or expectations. It's just a fact. But thankfully, there is One in whom we can place our hope and trust who will never let us down. And this One who is the Creator of the Universe and the Sustainer of our souls is the eternal, immutable and forever faithful God whose promises never change, whose character never wavers and whose perfect love never fails. 

And you know, "because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with love," you and I never have to fear that our salvation might be cancelled. And we never, ever have to worry that our hope will “lead to disappointment.” So go ahead and put your trust in Him my friend.... He can be trusted. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that You are faithful and can always be trusted. Help us to truly grasp that truth Lord that we might serve You with abandon and live free from fear. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Trusted - Meredith Andrews

His Name is worthy

"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." Colossians 3:17 NIV

Upon crossing the finish line of the Katy 50/50 50-mile race Saturday, the race director came over and congratulated me. "Great job," she said looking down at my bib with a handwritten 5th medal designation in the corner. "I'm so sorry, you registered late and you're fifth on the waiting list to get a medal."Oh no," I said smiling. "I don't need a medal. It's okay." Looking truly upset, she said, "No really, if there is one left after the race is over, I'll gladly mail it to you." "It's really okay," I insisted. "That's not why I did this race. You can keep it or give it to the next person in line." 

And you know what? I truly didn't participate in this race for any award or special object of commemoration - I did it because I truly love the Lord and felt called to run it in his Name. You see, the Bible tells us that whatever we do, "whether in word or deed," to "do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." That means our every utterance and our every pursuit should be done as an act of worship motivated by our relationship with Jesus and a deep desire to lead others to the foot of the Cross.

So whatever God has called you to today my friend, whether it's taking care of a family, waiting tables, teaching in a classroom, running a race, or serving in the military, do it with thanksgiving on your lips and with the intention of bringing fame, prestige and honor to his Name. After all, his Name is the only Name worthy of our total commitment and praise.

Heavenly Father, thank You for being a God worthy of nothing short of our complete and total commitment. As your representatives in this world, help us to be a light that leads others to You as we glorify You in all we say and do. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Worthy of Your Name

Embrace the ugly

"Obviously, I’m not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ’s servant." Galatians 1:10 NLT

"Eeeeewwwww!" the young girl at the elementary school I was teaching a running program at said as she looked down at my toes, ravaged from the previous weekend's 50 mile race. "I know," I said. "Pretty gross huh?" Shaking her head as she looked back down, eyes seemingly fixed on the ugliest toe that had a fresh gap where a toenail had been just 24 hours earlier. "This is what happens when you run a lot of miles," I said. "But it's okay," I reassured her. "They won't be ugly forever. They will eventually grow back." "Well that’s good," she said smiling in a way that conveyed what I can only imagine she was thinking, "why would anyone want to run enough to make their feet look like that?" 

And you know, the truth is my feet are ugly, very ugly, at least right now anyway. And while I could have possibly worn close-toed shoes rather than sandals to avoid being judged or lose the approval of a few people, it would have been painful. And besides, "pleasing people" is not my goal in life. Being "Christ's servant" is - which should be every believers' goal. But guess what? If you and I are "trying to win the approval of people," we will never live and serve with abandon and in complete surrender to Christ, fully devoted to complete the purpose for which we are called to no matter the cost.  

So may you and I seek only the approval "of God" my friend, enthusiastically and unashamedly doing anything He has called us to do whether the world approves or not. After all, in the end His approval will be the only thing that matters. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that your approval of us matters more than the approval of the world. Help us to rejoice when our behavior sets us apart as strange Lord knowing that our strangeness leads others to seek out the reason we are joyfully set apart. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

I surrender all - Casting Crowns

Be the example

“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 11:1 NIV 

Having seen my friend, Amanda, struggling out on the course of the ultra she and I were both running Saturday, I was happy to later learn she had gritted it out and finished her 100k race. Knowing how difficult this was, I messaged her and asked "What made you keep going?" To which she replied, "There were times throughout the race, especially between miles 35-40 that I had seriously entertained quitting. The pain was tremendous and just thinking of the number of miles still to complete seemed overwhelming. And then I thought about my 3 children. They were waiting for me to come back and tell them I had completed the race. At that moment I knew I couldn't quit... my kids look to me every day as a witness for Christ. I didn't want them to see me quit. Even when life gets tough I have to keep the faith and show them Who will get them through life's struggles if they stay focused on Him.” Wow!

And while we all know our children are watching us, do we ever, like Amanda, stop to truly think about the long lasting consequences of our actions? You see, no matter what you and I tell our children to do, our children will usually do as we do instead. Which is why you and I, as parents, must live our lives following "the example of Christ" so that when our children follow us, they will be following Him. Does that mean we will always make the right choices or be ideal role models? Of course not. But it does mean we must never give up in our pursuit to be like Christ - consistently and committedly striving for perfection each and every day.

So if you’re a parent, don’t lose hope if you're not perfect. None of us are my friend. But may we never let that stop us from trying to be so that our kids will do the same. After all, if we want our children to know the Lord and continually strive to grow in faith and righteousness, we must be their examples to follow. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the reminder that our children are always watching us and will most likely follow in our footsteps. With that knowledge, may each of us strive to be more like You, the perfect Parent, with every step we take. It’s in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Be like Jesus - Deitrick Haddon

Dispelling the greatest myth

“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.” 2 Timothy 3:17 NLT

In an article published by Good Health yesterday, the question was raised whether bananas, in regard to the myths we’ve heard about them recently, were actually healthy. And it turns out the widely held but false beliefs or ideas that bananas are a bad choice for snacking because they're high in carbs, sugar and calories are wrong. Not only are bananas low in calories, they are portion controlled and sustainable. And while it is true that bananas contain carbs like most fruits and vegetables, they have a low glycemic index which means bananas keep you fuller longer than processed carbs like white bread and pasta - making them the perfect snack anytime, especially before a workout or during and after a long run. And to think so many people believed the hype and forewent this tasty fruit.

And you know, when it comes to widely held but false beliefs or ideas, there’s a commonly held myth that the Bible was haphazardly thrown together by a group of people over a span of centuries and so has absolutely no validity. But the truth couldn’t be any different. You see, while it is true that mere men penned the words of the Bible, these men were literally inspired by God to jot down “all scripture,” exactly as God wanted it to be written. That means every single word in the Bible is written and recorded precisely as God intended it to be.

So if you’re still thinking that the Bible is not the inspired word of God, consider this my friend... Mathematically speaking, the odds of anyone fulfilling the amount of prophecy in the Bible are staggering. Mathematicians put it this way:

1 person fulfilling 8 prophecies: 1 in 100,000,000,000,000,000, 1 person fulfilling 48 prophecies: 1 chance in 10 to the 157th power, 1 person fulfilling 300+ prophecies: Only Jesus!

So you see, it is because of the magnificent detail and complete accuracy of these prophecies that have come to pass that we can dispel any and all myths that the Bible is not the inspired Word of God. Now doesn’t that make you smile?

Heavenly Father, thank You breathing your words into the many people who wrote the Bible. Because of its accuracy in predicting all the things to come, we can believe all the words written in its pages. Help us to open the Word daily that we might grow and profit from the Message contained in it. It’s in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!

The Word is alive - Casting Crowns

Give me the faith to believe

"I am the LORD your God, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt. Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it." Psalm 81:10 ESV

"Melissa Martinez, 50 mile" I said as I stepped up to the packet pickup table. "Okay," the gentleman working for the Katy 50/50 run said as he searched through the participants box to pull out the bag with my name and distance on it. Handing it to me, he smiled and said, "Good luck on your run tomorrow." "I'm going to need it," I thought as I headed back to my van while recalling my insufficient training. But within steps of turning around, the man’s wife who was working alongside him called out, "Hey, before you leave write down how long you think it will take for you to finish the race. The person who predicts the closest wins a prize!” Having only prayed up until that point that God would allow me to just finish the race, I quickly turned around and wrote 10 hours, 12 minutes... the time my heart desired to finish the race." And then I prayed, "You are an awesome God and I know this was not my original prayer. But I also know that nothing is impossible with your strength, so...  I boldly ask that you allow me to run strong and finish close to that time." And guess what? I not only finished within two minutes of "that time" but realized, once again, that the Lord can do mighty things when we are bold enough to ask and believe. 

And you know, when it comes to asking large things of God, we would all do well to remember that nothing is too large for the God who parted the sea, rained down manna from heaven and brought water out of a rock - just a few of the miracles the Israelites were allowed to witness. And since the Lord had proved his power time and again to them, the psalmist was confident there was no prayer that God could not answer and so encouraged God’s people, "Open your mouth wide." In other words, be bold and enlarge your prayers and expectations to the widest degree because nothing can exceed the bounty of “the Lord your God, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.” 

So if you're praying a prayer that you don't think God can answer, think again. God can do infinitely more than you and I could ever dream to ask. We only need to have the faith to believe it. So go ahead my friend... dream big and pray even bigger. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that You are capable of doing great things through us if we would only believe. Oh Lord, help us to overcome our fears to step out to do the impossible so that others would see your power working in us. Give us the faith to dream big believing that everything is possible with You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Faith to Believe - Shane & Shane

Faithful to the end

“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us walk in step with the Spirit.” Galatians 5:24,25 NIV

If you were blessed to be out running yesterday morning, you'd probably agree with me that it was near perfect running weather. So perfect, in fact, that I had to suppress the urge to run longer and faster than my taper for this Saturday's ultra I’ve been training for allowed. "It sure would be a shame," I thought to myself, thankful as I kept to the specified pace and distance, "to throw away all that work and training for an hour or so of pleasure." You see, when an athlete is training for a race, especially a long one, there comes a time when that athlete must rest so that he or she can recover strength to be ready on race day. Which means running too fast or too far so close to the event could potentially undo all the work an athlete has done in preparation to complete it. 

And you know, giving in to an urge for immediate but short-lived pleasure can not only undo months of work for an athlete, it can also undo a lifetime of work for a Christian. You see, a Christian can serve faithfully in their church and family their whole lives only to give in to their "passions and desires" right before the finish line and throw it all away - which is why Paul reminded the church at Galatia that "those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh." And you can be sure this is not a one time thing my friend. If you and I are going to stay faithful to the end, we must put our fleshly desires to death every single day and strive to follow God's perfect will. 

So may you and I make every effort to "walk in step with the Spirit," being ever so vigilant to guard our hearts and minds from any temptation that might cause us to go astray. After all, this is the only way you and I will successfully complete the race set before us. 

Heavenly Father, thank You so much for the reminder of how easy it is for even the most disciplined of Christians to give in to temptation. Help us to walk with You so closely Lord that we would immediately feel any separation from You and get right back on course. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

The Struggle - Tenth Avenue North

Forgiveness of fines owed

"In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace" Ephesians 1:7 NIV

Runner's World Magazine recently published a story describing how one organization in Montana was able to restore the library privileges to almost 300 patrons who had lost their rights to check out books after being unable to pay the fines they had accumulated. The Great Falls Library, who wanted everyone to have access to their treasure of goods, held the very first Fine Free Fun Run on August 3 where participants earned money for each loop they completed either walking or running. This money went towards the forgiveness of a patron’s personal fine or was donated to forgive someone else’s. In the end, they said, the fun run attracted 130 participants who worked to clear the fines of nearly 300 library cards, including those of all the children under 10 years old. Now how's that for running with a purpose? 

And you know, when it comes to having a purpose for doing something, did you realize that the sole purpose for which Jesus came to this earth was to die a sinner's death so that you and I could be cleared of our fines too? You see, the fine or penalty for our sins was death. But Jesus freely "offered the forgiveness of sins... through his blood" that was shed on the cross. That means He literally paid the fees demanded for the restoration of our rights because He wanted every person, Jew and Gentile, to have access to Him. 

So if you think you've acquired more fines than Jesus could possibly ever forgive today, think again. You and I were fully redeemed and our slate wiped clean the day He died for us on Calvary. And for that my friend, may our life's purpose from this day forward be to share that Good News with others so that that they too can experience this complete and eternal restoration.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder of just how truly blessed we are. Help us to not forget that forgiveness did not come without an enormous sacrifice and that our sole purpose in life is to share this story of redemption. Help us to love others as much as You love us Lord that we would not stop sharing the Good News until the whole world has heard it. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus, Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Loving My Jesus - Casting Crowns

Just pray

"I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13 NLT

"Listen," I said to a couple of friends upon hearing about their recent struggles while we were out on a run recently. "You’re not alone in this! I don't need to know any details to pray for you. I simply need to know that you need prayer. So text me the word 'pray' the next time you're feeling worried or anxious and then have peace knowing someone is interceding to the Father on your behalf." "You know," one of them said as she smiled. "Every woman needs a girlfriend they can text that to and know that it’s being done. Don't you think?" "Most definitely," I replied smiling back. 

And you know what? Each and every one of us most definitely needs at least one person in our lives that we can count on to pray for us upon being texted one single word. Which means you and I need to be that person for others as well. In other words, we need to be like Paul. You see, Paul was always praying for his brother and sisters in Christ - praying they would be strengthened, encouraged and growing in unity among other things. And you can bet that he fervently prayed that they would never lose hope saying, "I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit." 

Wow! That sure is a powerful prayer isn't it? But guess what? Paul didn't need to know specifics to pray for his fellow believers and we don’t either. So if you need prayer today my friend, won't you reach out to someone you know who will provide it? And if you are asked to pray for someone today, won't you do it without asking questions? After all, God knows what we need - you and I just need to pray. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that praying for one another is very, very important. Help us to be open to the Spirit's prompting to intercede for a brother or sister and to be obedient in praying when asked. And Lord, help us to swallow our fear and pride when we are in need of prayer so that we would reach out to someone who will intercede to You on our behalf. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Take My Life - Chris Tomlin

Attempt the impossible

"The LORD said to Gideon, “You have too many warriors with you. If I let all of you fight the Midianites, the Israelites will boast to me that they saved themselves by their own strength." Judges 7:2 NLT

As I was wandering through the grocery store three weeks ago, I received a message from a friend that read, "There's only one slot left for the 50 mile at the Katy 50/50." "Hmmm....why would I sign up for that?" I said to myself as I continued pushing my cart. "I'm just coming off an injury and not ready for that distance right now." And then I felt it... a nudge from the Holy Spirit prompting me to register for the race right then and there. "Oh Lord," I said silently. "I'm not ready for that yet (as if He didn't already know)." "You can be," I felt the Spirit say. "Will you trust me?" "Yes Lord I will," I said as I took out my phone and signed up while standing smack dab in the middle of the produce department. "Wow," I then thought shaking my head as I picked out some avocados. "I can't wait to see how God gets me through this one." 

And if you think that sounds crazy, consider this. Many times, as I've experienced in my own life, God will stack the odds against us only to enable us to do the impossible so others will see it and give Him the glory - something Gideon came to find out. You see, Gideon was called to defeat the Midianites, a feat that was totally possible with the 30,000 soldiers Gideon had under his command. So the Lord said, "You have too many warriors..." and then, through a series of events, decreased the fighting force to just 300. But guess what? Gideon and his small army defeated the mighty and numerous Midianites and everyone knew it was by God's strength and His strength alone. 

So if you're facing impossible odds today my friend, hold on, have faith and keep pressing on. It could just be that God is calling you to be that warrior who isn't afraid to attempt the impossible so that others will know it was by His strength that it was done.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that nothing is impossible with You and that you can use broken people to accomplish great things. Help us all to be willing to step up to the start line of impossible things that Your glory might be made known through us. Oh Lord, remind us that with Your strength, we can do anything you call us to. To You be all the glory, praise and honor. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.  

Happy Running!!!

Confidence - Sanctus Real

Great is thy faithfulness

"It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22,23 KJV

After a much needed run early Sunday morning that left me counting my blessings, I walked in the doors of Westside Baptist Church bursting with anticipation to "get my praise on." Anticipation that only intensified as I witnessed the baby dedication for my dear friend, Laura's, third child. As I fought back tears while standing there, all I could think was, "God is so faithful, He is so faithful. He's been faithful to me and ever so faithful to Laura and Frankie." You see, my dear friend and her husband had suffered multiple miscarriages so heartbreaking that they gave up their dreams of ever having a child. But guess what? Shortly after rededicating themselves to the Lord, Laura got pregnant and had a child... and then another... and then another. Is God faithful or what? 

And you know, God truly is loyal, constant, committed and ever true to his Word - something Jeremiah the prophet could attest to after experiencing the Lords' faithfulness first hand. You see, God had promised the Israelites that punishment would follow their disobedience and it did. But God also promised that restoration would soon follow which led the prophet to proclaim, "It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness." 

And while many things have changed since the day Jeremiah wrote those words, one thing has never changed... God's faithfulness. So if life seems tough right now and has left you wondering if your prayers will ever be answered, trust the Lord my friend. He knows what you need and exactly when to provide it. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for being a God with a track record of keeping your promises one hundred percent of the time. When we are tempted to doubt this Lord or doubt Your plan for our lives, help us to remember that You purpose all things so that we would grow closer to You - even those things we don't understand. Help us to trust You. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Faithful One - Selah