The Godly Stepparent

“‘Isn’t this the carpenter’s son? Isn’t his mother’s name Mary, and aren’t his brothers James, Joseph, Simon and Judas? ” Matthew 13:55 NIV

As I began my run early yesterday morning, my heart was heavy thinking about my stepdad who had been admitted to the hospital the day before with an infection. “Oh Lord,” I silently prayed. “Please heal Papa. We all love him so much. Please bring him home.” Less than three hours after praying that though, I received a call from the hospital chaplain. “Your mom can’t talk right now Melissa. But she asked me to call you….” The tears began to fall as he went on to deliver the news that would forever change my life. Papa had indeed gone home… to his eternal home. And while I was overjoyed that he was now with Jesus, I couldn’t help but feel a deep and intense sadness. “Oh how I’ll miss you, ” I said out loud. Rather than allowing myself to sink into despair at the thought of never seeing this man I loved with all my heart again though, I chose to thank God for all the ways my stepdad Don (aka Papa) had made it clear that I was not a “step” child to him. For 35 years, Don had loved me and my siblings like his own. So much so that I was often referred to as ‘Don’s daughter’, a title that I loved then and will cherish for the rest of my life.

And you know, when it comes to being a loving and godly stepparent—a position that can change the course of a child’s life—the Bible gives us the example of Mary's husband, Joseph. Joseph was not the biological father of Jesus but he willingly took on the responsibility of raising Him as his own--mentoring, teaching, and loving Him the way a good father does. In fact, Jesus was known as “the carpenter’s son” and was referred to as the brother of James, Joseph, Simon and Judas. Do you just love that or what? Joseph stepped up to fill a position in a way that reaped an eternal benefit for his whole family. 

So whether you’re a parent or a step parent, be a godly example for your children to follow my friend. I can never fully express the impact Don had on my life but I will tell you that he will never be forgotten and I am the woman I am today in-part because of his influence. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for men like Don who model the love You have for your children. Thank You that he was able to walk me down the aisle just weeks before he went home to be with you Lord. I will forever cherish that memory and countless others. Help us to love others in the same way that he did, especially those children that You have placed in our lives knowing that doing so will reap eternal fruit. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

Stay in the protection of the flock

“not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Hebrews 10:25 NIV

In an article titled, "Watch: Flock of Sheep Follow Runner on the Trail" posted recently, the following was reported: One trail runner recently had an animal encounter of a different kind. Thankfully, nothing baaa-d happened. The runner found she was being followed by an entire flock of sheep. Artist Eleanor Scholz came across the runner—and about 100 new friends—while hiking in central France, near Puy de Dôme. The two woman chatted for a while about the situation before it was time for the runner to get going. After all, you gotta get your miles in! As she went on her way, entire flock of sheep continued following close behind. “She’s a shepherdess now,” Scholz commented. According to Sheep 101, sheep instinctually gravitate toward flocking behavior. “They will run from what frightens them and band together in large groups for protection. This is the only protection they have from predators. There is safety in numbers.” Do you just love that story or what?

And, you know, while the story doesn't reveal what might have frightened the sheep, it does confirm that sheep have a natural predisposition to band together for protection; something the Lord’s sheep (that’s you and me) need to be doing as we look around at our world and “see the Day approaching.” You see, the Bible is very clear that Jesus is coming back but it’s also very clear that we will face many hardships—like wars, insurrections, famines, plagues, and persecution—before He does. This is the very reason we must make the time to fellowship and “band together” with our brothers and sisters while we wait for His return. We will need one another’s support, encouragement, prayer, and protection like never before. 

So if you’ve gotten out of the habit of “meeting together” with fellow believers, I urge you to do a 180 today and return to the flock. As we see more and more signs that “the Day” is approaching, you’ll be so glad you did. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that there is safety in numbers. And that while You are our Great Defender and our Shepherd, we need to be in the company of the flock You have given us. Stir our hearts to trust You and to meet with our brothers and sisters at every opportunity so that we would have no need to fear what’s coming. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

 
Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - What we can Learn from a Champion

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about what we can learn from Eliud Kipchoge, the world's fastest marathoner who broke his own world record Saturday by crossing the finish line of the Berlin Marathon in 2:01:19. "Limits are there to be broken," Eliud tweeted afterwards. "By you and me together. I can say that I am beyond happy today that the official world record is once again faster. Thank you to all the runners in the world that inspire me every day to push myself." 

And while the limit Eliud set out to break is unattainable for all but the elite, each of us has personal limits--whether it's qualifying for Boston, setting a new PR, shaving a few minutes off a half-marathon time or simply finishing a race without feeling like you've been hit by a truck-- that can be broken by adopting some of the training habits Kipchoge has. So without further adieu, check out these six principles Eliud regularly practices. 

Cultivate Controlled Consistency

For Kipchoge, recovery runs start at a shuffle, typically an 8:30-to-8:45-minute-mile pace, and slowly build up to finish around 6:30 to 7 minutes per mile. That’s starting at four minutes per mile slower than his marathon pace, and still two minutes per mile off his marathon pace at the end. The goal here is to build overall volume—Kipchoge runs 124 to 136 miles each week—and ensure he’s ready to run fast for his next workout.

Though challenging, the workouts are controlled. “I try not to run 100 percent,” he says. “I perform 80 percent on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday and then at 50 percent Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.”

Balance the Body

Twice a week, Kipchoge and his training partners perform a 60-minute session of strength and mobility exercises using yoga mats and resistance bands. The exercise program focuses on the posterior chain, particularly the glutes, hamstrings, and core muscles. It involves a series of glute abduction moves using resistance bands and the athletes’ body weight: bridges, planks, single-leg deadlifts, followed by proprioception and balance exercises and some gentle stretching to finish. He doesn’t lift weights, and the goal behind these exercises is chiefly injury prevention. “The exercises are not something where you suffer,” says Marc Roig, the physiotherapist who oversees the routine. “The idea is that you’re not crushed. The idea is to create a very basic balance in the body. We know the important part is running, so we want to complement [it] a little bit and avoid any negative interference.”

Respect Recovery

For Kipchoge, every day starts at 5:45 A.M., and he’s in bed by 9 P.M. each night. During the day he’ll nap for an hour, while his spare time is spent reading or chatting with his teammates at the camp. Despite the many demands on his time, he’s very, very good at doing nothing. Kipchoge drinks three liters of water each day and has worked with a nutritionist in recent years to improve his diet, mainly to include more protein. His meals are simple: homemade bread, local fruits and vegetables, lots of Kenyan tea, some meat, and a generous daily helping of favorite food—ugali, a dense maize-flour porridge. When it comes to supplements, Kipchoge told me he takes none. He gets a massage twice a week with his physiotherapist, Peter Nduhiu, who has worked with him since 2003. “He’s been one very lucky guy,” Nduhiu says. “He hasn’t had injuries, but he makes it easy for me, because he follows what the coach says. If you’re managing an issue and tell him to slow down, he does exactly that.”

Document Every Detail

For most runners these days, recording workouts happens automatically via their watch, but Kipchoge still follows an old-school approach, logging every detail in a notebook. He began the practice in 2003 and now has 18 logs stored at his home to reflect on at the end of each season. “I document the time, the kilometers, the massage, the exercises, the shoes I’m using, the feeling about those shoes,” he says. “Everything.” He is known to review these details and learn from them for future training cycles. And they make a remarkable record of marathoning excellence. “I trust one day I will go through them and see what has been happening in the whole system,” Kipchoge says. “When I call off the sport, I will combine them and write about them one day.”

Let Your Pace Progress Naturally

“What’s the biggest mistake marathoners make?” I ask Patrick Sang, who has guided Kipchoge’s career for more than 20 years. “Not listening to their bodies very well,” he says. “And not understanding what they are supposed to do.” Sang likes his athletes to monitor effort—not with GPS watches or heart-rate monitors but by feel. When it comes to long runs, he doesn’t ask for a specific pace but an effort that’s controlled yet challenging, the pace naturally increasing each week as fitness builds. Sometimes runners who join the group will head off at a crazy pace and mess up the other athletes, Sang says. On each run, the pace should get progressively faster, or at worst stay the same. Forcing the pace beyond your fitness does no good. If you hammer the first half of a long run but can’t maintain it to the end, Sang says, “You’re on my list.”

A Champion’s Routine

After each marathon, Kipchoge takes three to four weeks completely off before beginning a three-to-four-week preparatory phase, during which he alternates an hour of strength exercises and step aerobics one day with an hour of easy running the next. When he shows up at camp, ready to begin his specific marathon training, Sang often has him do a set of 3K repetitions on the track to gauge his fitness. Then it begins: the hard-easy approach that sees Kipchoge run fast three days a week and coast through the rest of his runs, sometimes at a comically slow pace. His marathon-training blocks have been as long as seven months and as short as three months, but typically they last around 16 weeks.

So there you have it friends. Pick your goal. Train hard. Always keep a positive attitude. And above all, don't forget to smile like Kipchoge. Science not only backs up his belief that a smile lessens a person's perception of pain and fatigue thereby increasing performance, but you'll have much better finish line photos. And who doesn't want that right? Happy Running!

Don't boast about tomorrow

“‘Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.’” James 4:14,15 NIV

In a story that made headlines over the weekend, it was reported that Eliud Kipchoge broke his own marathon world record at the Berlin Marathon on Sunday. The 37-year-old Kenyan crossed the line in 2:01:09 – 30 seconds faster than his previous record (2:01:39), which he set at the Berlin Marathon in 2018. When asked if he could improve his time even further, he said: 'There’s still more in my legs and I hope the future's still great. My mind is still thinking wise. The body is actually still absorbing the training and racing.' Does this mean we'll see Kipchoge running even faster in Berlin next year – and even clocking sub-two at a World Marathon Major? When asked if he would attempt a sub-two hour run in Berlin next year, Kipchoge replied: 'Let us plan for another day. I will celebrate this record and have to realise what happens. Just roll and see what happens.' Don’t you just love that response?

And you know, when it comes to answering questions about our future, what we will do or where we will go, you and I would do well to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” You see, as James clearly knew, you and I “do not even know what will happen tomorrow.” We “are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” Which means, you and I have no reason or right to boast about what the future holds when, ultimately, we have no control over it.

So make the most of the day that you have, knowing that you aren’t guaranteed tomorrow my friend. Live to glorify God through your pursuits, words, and deeds at every opportunity and celebrate His goodness while you can. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that to assume that we will have tomorrow is very arrogant of us. Give us a spirit of humility Lord so that we would recognize that we are nothing without You and can do nothing apart from You. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!
 

We are the aroma of Christ

“To those who are perishing, we are a dreadful smell of death and doom. But to those who are being saved, we are a life-giving perfume. And who is adequate for such a task as this?” 2 Corinthians 2:16 NLT

As I do nearly every weekend, I woke up well before church Sunday with a smile on my face, intent on taking some extra time to complete my normal run so I could do some 'nature bathing' (aka forest bathing) to prepare my heart for worship. For me, this is the time I slow down a bit and even take a few walk breaks to consciously meditate on the words I read in my morning Bible study--all the while basking in the sights, smells and feels of everything the Lord created. And let me tell you, as someone who has the blessing of being surrounded by thousands of acres of farm land and countless dirt roads that interconnect, there’s never any shortage of things to see or smell. I was especially happy as I came off the trail yesterday and made my way down the side of the quarter-mile of rural Highway that would lead me back home. That was until a farm truck passed by and emitted an awful odor and a cloud of black dust. "That is putrid!" I thought to myself as I plugged my nose, waved my hand in the air, and waited several seconds for the offensive aroma to dissipate and move on so I could breathe in the fresh air again. "What a profound difference between those two smells," I thought to myself.

And you know, when it comes to a difference in smells, the Bible tells us that "to those who are perishing, we are a dreadful smell of death and doom. But to those who are being saved, we are a life-giving perfume." That "we" is you and me, and every believer who preaches the gospel. Our message is good news to those who choose to accept Christ but repulsive to those who don't. It's so foul, in fact, to those people who revel in their sin and refuse to turn from it that they will reject, hate, persecute, and even harm those who preach it. But "we" must never let that stop us from evangelism as we remember that, through the power of God, we are "adequate for such a task as this."

So be prepared to preach the gospel in season and out of season my friend. Remember that "we" are equipped through the Holy Spirit and more than capable to speak the life-giving words that the world needs to hear.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that there will always be those who will reject the message of salvation and even be downright hostile to it. Prepare our hearts and minds for that now Lord so that we would not cower down when we face rejection. Fill our hearts so full of love for the lost that we would be bold in preaching the good news regardless of the consequences. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

The Lord comes to the rescue

"The righteous person faces many troubles, but the LORD comes to the rescue each time." Psalm 34:19 NLT

In an article titled “Runners Can Exhale! No Cutoff for 2023 Boston Marathon” published by Runner’s World yesterday, the writer said, “ For the second year in a row, all runners who applied to run the Boston Marathon will be accepted into the race, as long as they have a valid qualifying time.” And while this might be good news to those athletes who have qualified, it’s indicative of a trend that’s being felt by the majority of people all around the world. The rising cost of every day essentials like food, fuel, and electricity is forcing people to make some tough choices. Do I pay for a race that I don't have to participate in or save the money for the things I need to live? In fact, the writer had this to say about it: Athletes cite the expense of race entry fees and the high cost of travel required to get to events, wariness about COVID-19, and shifting motivations as reasons why they’re not racing as frequently as they did in 2019 and the early days of 2020. It appears even the Boston Marathon is not immune from these trends. You know the recession is getting serious when the iconic Boston Marathon is affected. 

And you know, as our world continues to spiral into moral decline and the price of basic necessities continue to rise as the result, you and I would do well to remember that we, as believers, are not immune from experiencing the problems, difficulties, distresses, and trials that come with the consequences of sin (whether it be our personal sin or the sins of a nation). Thankfully though, the Bible tells us that when (because it's not a matter of if but when), "the righteous person faces many troubles... the Lord comes to the rescue each time." Do you just love that or what? That means no matter how bleak a situation might appear, those who have put their trust in Jesus Christ have nothing to fear.

So resist the urge to be fearful or anxious each time you turn on the news or hear reports of impending disaster my friend. Look up instead and trust the One who has promised to deliver us from the evil one and to work all things for our good. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that being a Christian doesn't make us immune from the troubles of the world but gives us hope in the midst of them, knowing that You will not allow any harm to come to us that doesn't serve a purpose. Help us to trust You more than ever in the coming days so that we would remain joyful and hopeful no matter what. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Don't look back

“Then Jesus told him, “Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.” Luke 9:62 NLT

On Tuesday, Ultra Running History reported that Yen Nguyen had become the newest member of the 100x100 club; a small group of people who have completed at least 100 one-hundred mile races. Their Facebook post read: Congratulations to Yen Nguyen, age 60, from Houston, Texas, who finished her 100th 100-mile at the recent GOMU 48-hour World Championships held at Hainesport, New Jersey where she won her 60-64 age-group. She is the 22nd member of the 100x100 club. Yen started running in 1996 and accomplished her first 100-miler in 1998. She has run marathons and ultras in all 50 states and in 142 countries with a goal to reach 150. She currently has run 785 marathons or ultras, with a goal to reach 800 this year. As a self-described slow “back-of-the-pack” ultrarunner, she has demonstrated that speed is not necessary to reach the 100x100 milestone, but perseverance and determination is required. 

And you know, the number of members of the elite 100x100 club are so few because very few people have the “perseverance and determination” required to achieve something so difficult. Likewise, the cost of following Jesus is so great that few people will “keep their hand to the plow” and continue pressing on when things get hard. The majority of people will make excuses for why they can’t follow Him at all. But a great number of people will follow for a while and then simply give up when the race gets too difficult and go back to their easier life. Which is the very reason that Jesus said, “anyone who puts their hand to the plow and looks back is not fit for the Kingom of God.” 

So run the race with endurance my friend. Show up to put in the work when it’s hard, when you’re not seeing any results, and when you feel like giving up. But don’t give up! EVER! And remember… you don’t need speed to keep pressing on, you simply need a resolute determination to persevere no matter how difficult it might be. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us why so few people will enter into the narrow gate to become a part of the exclusive club of believers who press on until the end. Help us to be those people who never let go of the plow no matter how hard it might be to see the work completed and to inspire those around us to do the same. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - The Benefits of Spending Time in Nature

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about the benefits of spending time in nature--and why running is the perfect sport to obtain those benefits. But first, meet Rudy Martinez, your 3:45 Bass Pro marathon pacer. He's not only fast but smart. So smart that he not only refers to himself as a 'nature nerd' but manages the Bass Pro Nature Center so he can spend lots of time outdoors. Talk about lining up your passion with your vocation. Rudy has the best of both worlds. He works in nature and also runs it in. So before we talk about the benefits of being outside, check out Rudy's bio:

My name is Rudy Martinez but you can call me a nature nerd. I love spending as much time as possible outdoors and running is another way to experience nature. Anytime outside is time well spent. I love all the seasons and each brings conditions conducive to specific hobbies of mine, including running. My family and I love to fish and go on adventures. I’m also an avid archer. I run roads during the week and hit the trails on weekends. I recently ran Boston in April and that opened my eyes to what group support can do. As one runner described it, it’s like Christmas for runners.” I’ve run all my life but only took to running distance over 12 miles about eight years ago. I’ve run six marathons and just as many ultra marathons over the last seven years with the longest being a 100K at Black Canyon, AZ. Growing up I was very active in sports and only dreamed of running hills as I grew up in near zero elevation. I later went on to serve eight years in the US Navy and continued my running as conditioning for intramural sports. Today, I run for the joy of it and to experience adventures with others along the way. Life is busy and my day job is managing the nature center where I get to meet new people and share my interest in nature and outdoor pursuits to include running. Life is an adventure, go get it! See you at the finish line!

Do you just love that or what? I know that being outdoors most definitely puts a smile on my face and joy in my heart. Which is the very reason I absolutely love living in the Ozarks and more specifically on a farm. I get out at least five days a week (I cross train on other days) and run the gravel roads and rolling hills around my house, surrounded by the sights and sounds of God's creation. I'm not even going to lie though... I can get so caught up in admiring a sunrise, checking out baby calves, or just stopping to breathe in the fresh air while I count my blessings that I've been late to work more than once. Thankfully I have a flexible schedule and boss that shares my love of the great outdoors so completely understands.

But don't just take mine and Rudy's word for it. Check out what McMaster University says are the "7 Benefits of Spending Time in Nature." And then, if you haven't already, get registered for the Dogwood Canyon trail run and experience the beauty, serenity, and solitude of the Nature Center for yourself. You won't regret it. 

On a side note, check out what the writer had to say about "Forest Bathing." I do this often but never knew the practice had a name. 

Benefits of spending time in nature 

1.    Increased feelings of calmness

2.    Increased endorphin levels and dopamine production (promotes happiness)

3.    Restored capacity for concentration and attention

4.    Reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression

5.    Reduced irritability

6.    Lowered blood pressure and reduced cortisol (stress hormone)

7.    Reduced feelings of isolation

Getting the most out of your time in nature

• Studies show that a minimum of 2 hours a week spent in nature, either at one time or over several visits, is needed to significantly increase your health and well being. Two hours may sound like a lot when you’re balancing school, personal time, and potentially work – but your health is worth the investment!
• Ensure the place you choose to go feels safe. Time in nature is only a stress antidote if you are able to properly relax and embrace the experience.
• To maximize the health benefits of being in nature, try your best to be present. Take deep breaths and pause to listen to the sounds around you.
• While a walk in the woods will help combat stress, try moving your workout outdoors. When performed regularly, exercising in nature can reduce the risk of mental health problems by up to 50%.

The Practice of Forest Bathing

The term ‘Forest Bathing’ references a physiological and psychological practice that first emerged in Japan in the 1980s. The exercise, also known as ‘Shinrin-yoku’, was developed to achieve two goals; antidote tech burnout and inspire residents to connect with and protect the country’s green spaces.

Forest Bathing is open ended in practice in the sense that there is no prescription of what an individual should experience. While guided experiences exist, forest bathing can be as simple as standing in nature and engaging with the smells, sounds, and sights the area provides you. Depending on where you are the experience will differ! For example, forest bathing in Hawaii often focuses on the location’s abundance of aromatic flowers and the salty breeze of the ocean, while in Kenya the practice would focus on its endemic plants, wild orchids, and unique population of elephants and deBrazza monkeys. If you try Forest Bathing, be sure to acknowledge and embrace the uniqueness of the space you are in!

On another side note, taking a tour of the Dogwood Canyon Nature Center (either by trolley, walking, running, biking, or hiking) is a great way to experience the smells, sounds, and sights of the majestic Ozark hills and mountains, especially as we enter into Fall. But if you can't get away, get out wherever you are and take the time to stand in nature, to breathe in deep, and to count your blessings. Done daily, this practice will make you more appreciative of all that you have.

And there you have it friends. There are so many great reasons to get outdoors and to create your own adventures. So do it as often as you can and I assure you that you will find it so beneficial that you'll carve out the time to do it more. Happy Running!

Show a pattern of consistency

"Likewise, exhort the young men to be sober-minded, in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility," Titus 2:6,7 NKJV

In an article published by Runners World yesterday titled, “Aleksandr Sorokin Shatters the 24-Hour World Record,” the following was reported: Lithuanian ultrarunner Aleksandr Sorokin shattered his own 24-hour world record over the weekend, logging 198.599 miles (319.614 kilometers) to win the 2022 IAU 24-Hour European Championships in Verona, Italy. He averaged 7:15 per mile for 24 hours on a track to break his record of 192.251 miles from last year. And if Sorokin’s pace consistency over the course of 24 hours didn’t impress you, consider this… Sorokin, who turns 41 this month, has rewritten the ultrarunning record books in recent years. He has set world records for 100-kilometers (6:05:41, 5:53 mile pace), 100 miles (10:51:39, 6:31 mile pace) and 12 hours (110.24 miles, 6:32 mile pace) in the past year. Is that amazing or what? This pattern of consistency should be what every runner strives to achieve.

And you know, when it comes to patterns that are reliable, regular, steady and unchanging, Paul urged believers to show themselves as patterns of “good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility...” Paul was telling Titus, and us, that we must be consistent, persistent, and intentional in doing good deeds and setting a good example of what it means to be men and women of integrity, reverence, and incorruptibility so that we would be taken seriously by those we are trying to exhort to do the same. You see, if you and I want someone to act a certain way, we must live that way ourselves. It's only by living a life of righteousness then that we will earn the right to be heard and inspire others to draw closer to Christ. 

So vow to live a life worthy of following my friend--a life marked by a pattern of consistency that seeks to honor God and bring Him glory in all that you do and say. You'll not only influence those in your household to imitate this behavior but those around you as well. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that running the race with consistency not only helps us make it to the finish line but to inspire others to run alongside us. Lord, help each of us to show ourselves "to be a pattern of good works" and to honor You with our speech, thoughts, and actions so that we would inspire others to do the same. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Don't put off the decision

"Finally, the poor man died and was carried by the angels to sit beside Abraham at the heavenly banquet. The rich man also died and was buried, and he went to the place of the dead. There, in torment, he saw Abraham in the far distance with Lazarus at his side." Luke 16:22,23 NLT

In an article titled, “High School Cross Country Runner Recovering After Suffering a Heart Attack During a Race,” published last week, the following was reported: Bartlett High School cross country coach Kris Harman could tell something was wrong when 17-year-old Gabe Higginbottom finished the 5K race at the Gulf Coast Stampede over the weekend in Pensacola, Florida. “He started complaining about his chest hurting and kept complaining and we went to the trainer’s tent…everybody initially thinks it’s hot, it’s heat exhaustion so give him ice but he’s still complaining about his chest,” Harman said to News Channel 3 in Memphis He was sent to Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola Hospital by event staff, before getting transported by helicopter to the UF Shands Heart and Vascular Hospital in Gainesville. Doctors found that the high school junior’s right artery was completely blocked, and they performed an angioplasty to insert a balloon to open up the artery. Later, he underwent a three-hour emergency surgery, where doctors inserted two stents and found two blood clots.

And you know, while less than 10 percent of all heart attacks occur in people under the age of 40, the number of younger people having heart attacks is on the rise. Which is the very reason no one of any age should put off the decision to follow Jesus Christ. Consider the story of the rich man and Lazarus. They both died. Yet only Lazarus entered into heaven. The rich man who had experienced all the comforts of the world "went to the place of the dead," a place so full of torment, pain, distress, and affliction that he earnestly begged for mercy. But there was none to be given to him. You see, Lazarus chose to follow Christ before he died and so spent eternity with Jesus in a place more amazing than we could ever imagine. The rich man, however, did not. And so went to hell. 

So, no matter your age, if you have not made the decision to accept Jesus Christ as your Savior, do it today my friend. There is no guarantee that any of us will live until tomorrow or the next minute for that matter. But what is guaranteed is this... you determine your final destiny (a choice that cannot be undone after death) by the choice you make while you are still breathing. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that death can come when we least expect it. Help us to truly understand this Lord that we would not put off choosing to accept You as our Lord and Savior if we haven't already, or zealously urging the lost to do so. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

He created them male and female

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

In a story published by NPR Wednesday titled, "Runners can identify as nonbinary in next year's Boston and London marathons," the following was reported: Two of the world's top marathons will allow runners to identify as nonbinary when they enter the races next year. Organizers for the 2023 Boston Marathon and the 2023 TCS London Marathon say that racers will have the option to enter the race as male, female or nonbinary – a term used by some people who say they don't fit into the gender categories of man or woman. There's been a push for greater gender inclusion in sports across the globe, and some athletics organizations have recently announced policies on how transgender, nonbinary and other gender-nonconforming people can take part in competitions. Boston and London join other marathons that have already added the nonbinary gender option, such as the New York Marathon. "A truly inclusive marathon provides space for every runner to register, compete and be celebrated exactly as they are," said Joanna Hoffman, spokesperson for Athlete Ally, a group that advocates for LGBTQI+ equality in sports.

And you know, although the world has created more than 100 genders (with more being added all the time) for a person to identify with, the Bible says, “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” That means, barring a rare medical anomaly, there are only two genders—which means that a person is either a male or a female based on their chromosomes at birth. No amount of redefining what it means to be a man or woman will ever change that. And you can be sure that, regardless of what the world says, there’s no surgery or medicine that can ever change it either. 

So don't fall into the false belief or narrative that it's hard to define a man or a woman my friend. The Bible is very clear that a man is a male and a woman is a female. They are both uniquely made in the image of God just as He purposed them to be and nothing will ever change that. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for being a God of order and simplicity. While the world would like to add new definitions, new pronouns and new gender identities when it comes to what a man and a woman are, they only serve to promote confusion, cause division, and lead people away from You. Help us to be bold in speaking the Truth that some might be saved no matter what consequences we might face. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

 

Don’t get tricked

“Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth.” Ephesians 4:14 NLT

In an article titled, "To Get the Right Fit, Ignore the Number on the Shoe Box," published by Runner's World Tuesday, coach Jeff Dengate wrote, "If you’re a size 8, don’t expect all size 8 shoes to fit well. He went on to say, "Because I’ve been fitting wear-testers and staff for new running shoes for so many years, I know that many runners wear a shoe that’s too small for their foot. But, they insist it fits because the number on the box matches what size they typically wear. My advice: Ignore the number on the box. I trick our wear-testers by giving them just the shoe, not the box, when I think they may benefit from going up a half size. You can find the right fit by visiting your local running shop and trying on multiple pairs—or by taking advantage of generous return policies from internet sellers.” Wow. This is one time when being tricked is a good thing, right? 

And you know, when it comes to the deceitfulness of men as it’s intended to bring about harm rather than good, Paul pleaded with the church at Ephesus to make every effort to become mature in the faith and to create and keep unity within the body of Christ. Why? Because He knew it was important to keep them, and us, from being “tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching” or influenced when people tried to trick them "with lies so clever" they sounded like the truth. You see, immature Christians are apt to believe false teachings, disinformation, and false statements because their personal knowledge of the Truth is limited, thus they fall for the tricks of the enemy. Which is the very reason every believer must do their part to be a healthy, growing member of the church.

So make every effort to become mature in the faith and to keep yourself united with the body of Christ my friend. Be vigilant and purposeful in setting aside time for daily Bible study and weekly fellowship so that you won’t be tricked by false teachers who speak “lies so clever they sound like the truth.”

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that each and every one of us needs to be growing within the shelter of a body of believers. Please give us a hunger for the Word and a yearning for fellowship so that we would do our part in making the church healthy, whole, and strong Lord. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Strange running hacks

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Can you believe that fall is just around the corner? Which means the Bass Pro Marathon/Half will be here before we know it! And that means the training you put in over the next few weeks will be critical to making sure you’re ready to step up to the start line on November 6. With that in mind, check out these strange but effective running motivation hacks Canadian Running Magazine says will make sure that you get out the door. Because, as every runner knows, once you get going, you’re always happy you ran.

On your off day, go for a short walk when you’d usually run

Even when you’re don’t having a run scheduled, it’s important to move your body a bit. This can be walking, a short bike ride or even a core session. If you’re someone who struggles with keeping a routine, go for a morning walk on your off day when you’d typically go for your morning run. This keeps your schedule consistent and your body moving well.

 

Wake up and put on your running clothes right away

When you get out of bed, especially if you’re on the fence about an early morning run, throw your clothes (and shoes) on immediately. If you’ve got your gear on, you can’t go back to bed (it’s almost scientifically proven that you can’t fall asleep in a sports bra). On top of that, unless they’re brand new, running shoes don’t mix well with your bed sheets. 

If you’re an after work runner, putting your running clothes on the minute you get through the door is advised. Also, don’t let yourself sit down – you might never get up again. 

Don’t look at your watch

When you begin your run, there’s a magnetic pull to check your watch. It’s like your Garmin is calling your name, saying, “look at me, I dare you.” Resist that temptation for as long as possible, because it almost always says it’s only been four minutes, even though it has felt like 15. 

Mental gymnastics

Everyone has done some bonkers mental gymnastics while running that go something like this: “Last week I ran 8K and today I’m running 10K, so I’ll just get those 2K out of the way and then I’m basically doing my normal run.” 

Most runners break their runs down into fractions to convince themselves that it’s basically over. When you’re having a rough day, this is a ridiculous but shockingly effective practice. 

Short length reflects intensity of workout

Everyone knows that the shorter the shorts, the harder the effort. You’ve got your tight shorts for the fast days, your loose but short-shorts for the tempo days and your long and loose shorts for the easy days. It’s the shorts that dictate the pace. If you’re not totally psyched about your workout, throw on some fast shorts to set the vibe. 

Save a new album or pod for your run

If you’ve got a new piece of media that you’re really amped to listen to, save it for your run. This means you’re not just running anymore, you’re running and listening to a new album or podcast. For extra incentive, find a podcast that's the perfect length of time for your workout and it will help you to ignore your watch and run for joy.

Candy as pre-workout nutrition

Simple sugar is a runner’s friend, especially ahead of a hard workout. If you’re feeling a little hungry 30 minutes out from your warmup, don’t put back some fruits and veg, grab a handful of Skittles. Ideally, you’ve fueled well enough throughout the day to not need a last-minute sugar rush, but if you do, this is a good place to start. 

Two words: morning coffee

An early morning run can be tough, but everyone knows (well, the coffee drinkers at least) that their early-morning cuppa java is something to look forward to. Wake up 15 minutes earlier just so that you can enjoy a morning beverage. 

Brush your teeth before you run

When you’re rushing out the door for a run, sometimes the tooth brushing gets saved for afterwards. If you’ve got the time, brush your teeth before, it’ll help you feel fresh and ready. 

So there you have it friends. These are some great tips to help you get motivated to head out the door. And if you need more motivation, consider this... fall is considered by a majority of runners to be the best running season of the year. You'll only have three months of it before winter hits so get out there and enjoy it. Happy Running!

Nobody gets away with it

“They say, “The LORD doesn’t see it. The God of Jacob doesn’t pay attention.” Psalm 94:7 HCSB

In a story that had me baffled titled, "European medalist runner tests positive for meldonium” published yesterday by The Associated Press, the following was reported: European Championship steeplechase silver medalist Ahmed Abdelwahed has been suspended after testing positive for meldonium. The Athletics Integrity Unit did not say when the 26-year-old Italian runner tested positive. Abdelwahed was second in the 3,000-meter steeplechase at the European track championships in Munich three weeks ago. Meldonium is an endurance-boosting heart medication banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency since 2016. Athletes testing positive for it early that year included tennis star Maria Sharapova. She served a 15-month ban. And the reason I was so baffled is this… in a day and age when testing is so advanced, how do people think they can still get away with cheating?

And you know, when it comes to getting away with things, the Bible tells us that people who revel in and celebrate practicing evil are known by their arrogance toward God saying, “The Lord doesn’t see it” or pay attention. This attitude is the very thing that causes the willful evildoers to be blind to the consequences their actions will eventually bring. Spurgeon explains it this way, “They were blindly wicked because they dreamed of a blind God. When men believe that the eyes of God are dim, there is no reason to wonder that they give full license to their brutal passions.”

So in a world where the wicked seem to “get away” with cheating, lying, rioting, swindling, murder, extortion and a litany of other offenses, let us remember that God sees all my friend. He pays careful attention to everything and will one day judge the unrepentant and prideful for their blatant iniquities, proving that no one truly gets away with it. 

Heavenly Father, in a world where the chances of a criminal being punished for their crimes is becoming less and less, help us to remember that nothing anyone does happens without your knowledge. You see everything and You most definitely pay attention. Help us to remember that Lord when we want to throw up our hands thinking that the wicked with “get away” with their crimes. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

The Name above all names

“Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:9-11 NIV

“What a powerful Name it is, What a powerful Name it is. The Name of Jesus Christ my King. What a powerful Name it is. Nothing can stand against. What a powerful Name it is… the Name of Jesus.” As I sang those words in unison with my brothers and sisters in Christ at church early yesterday morning, my mind briefly went back to the ‘problem’ my husband, Larry, and I had left behind at home and my heart raced. “Oh no,” I thought to myself. “Not today Satan.” I then reminded myself that the plumber (a trusted friend of ours) was on the way to find the cause of the water leak that nearly caused my husband and I to forgo church. “We don’t need to be home for this honey,” Larry said to me. “Let’s not let the enemy use this to keep us from worshiping. It will all work out.” And sure enough it did. The cause of the leak was eventually found and repaired and we were left to clean up a mess that wasn’t nearly as bad as my imagination had me convinced it would be.

But you know, isn’t that what the enemy does in the face of our problems? Feed our minds with all the reasons we should be worrying and why God won’t come through for us? Of course it is. In fact, our adversary the devil will even cause us to panic if we allow our imaginations to run wild. Which is the very reason that you and I need to remind ourselves that the Name of Jesus is so powerful that NOTHING can stand against it. Evil, troubles, and chaos may seem to rule for a while but there is coming a day when every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that “Jesus Christ is Lord.” That means that one day all our tests, trials, and tribulations will be no more and we will reign with the One whose Name is above all names. 

So no matter what problems you might be facing today, put them into perspective my friend. The enemy may win a few battles here and there but you can be sure that Jesus Christ, who has already conquered sin and death, wins the war. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that the trials of this world are only temporary. When our hearts are anxious Lord and when our problems seem large and insurmountable, please cause us to remember that this world is quickly passing away and a day is coming when we will reign with You forever, free from the troubles of this world. Until then, help us to recall that the promise of Romans 8:28 is true, which means we have no reason to fear. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Honor God with your body

"you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies." 1 Corinthians 6:20 NIV

In an article posted by Trail Runner Magazine last week, five of the world's top American Masters runners that were gearing up to run the World Masters Mountain Running Championships in Ireland were asked the question many runners have pondered, "What’s the secret to a long life of competitive running?" Among their responses were, "Remember to rest, even if that rest day is some form of cross training like cycling, cross country skiing, or snowshoeing" and "Listen to your body and pay attention to little aches and pains so they don’t progress to full blown career-ending injuries… Don’t run more; run smarter. Quality over quantity, including some speed work. Rest and recover. " My favorite tip though came from 50-year-old Sarah Wagner who has been running for 35 years, "Respecting and honoring our bodies. It’s important that we take care of ourselves as best we can – being mindful of what we’re putting into our bodies, getting regular body work, immersing oneself in nature, sharing miles with friends, getting rest, and staying away from stress.”

And you know, when it comes to respecting our bodies, the Bible tells us that our bodies are not our own. Which means we shouldn’t treat them that way. You and I were bought at a price, we belong to Christ, and should “therefore honor God” with our bodies. This means taking the utmost care of them so that we can serve Jesus better, having the long life and abundant energy that comes from eating right, exercising regularly, and getting proper sleep. Spurgeon says it this way, “Your body was a willing horse when it was in the service of the devil, let it not be a sluggish hack now that it draws the chariot of Christ.”

So do all that you can to keep your body healthy my friend, remembering that your earthly shell doesn’t really belong to you. Our bodies belong to God which means we don’t have the right to abuse, pollute or neglect them. We must keep them fit for service at all times no matter how old we are.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that our bodies were bought at a price, the sum of which we could never repay. Help us to truly understand this Lord so that we would take the utmost care of them so that we could serve you well throughout our lifetime. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

Don't give in to fear

“And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” Matthew 10:28 NKJV

Expressing the shock and grief that thousands of other runners around the world are feeling after the senseless murder of 34-year-old runner Eliza Fletcher on Friday, my friend Elisha posted this before heading out for her early morning run yesterday: Eliza Fletcher was on my mind this morning as I laced up my shoes, grabbed my taser and dog and headed out for my 4 am run. I couldn't help but think of the women I personally know getting ready to head out the door for their runs as well. This isn't new to us. We know the dangers and we are vigilant to protect ourselves while doing what we love. Some will only run with others, while I find joy in running alone. I always tell my husband where I'm going and when I expect to be back. Clearly she did too. I carry weapons, I wonder if she did too. I feel pretty safe on my morning route, I wonder if she did too. I feel pretty hopeful that my legs would help me outrun someone if I needed to, I wonder if she thought that too. I know that I would fight like hell if I had to, clearly she did that too. And none of that saved her. I keep reading "when we be able to run without fear?" The answer is never!! We live in a fallen world and evil is always possible. We can't let that stop us from doing what we enjoy. I will continue to take precautions, but I will also continue to do what I love without fear. This morning I ran and I wept and I prayed for her family. Be safe out there friends and don't let fear steal your joy.

And you know, Elisha is so right. You and I will never be able to run, or do anything for that matter, without the fear of being harmed physically. That’s just the world we live in. But we must not let that fear keep us from doing what we enjoy or, more importantly, from going out and preaching the gospel to a world in desperate need of hearing it—but growing increasingly hostile to all those who present it. Which is the very reason Matthew warned us NOT to fear “those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.” Now this doesn’t mean that you and I shouldn’t arm ourselves or take the necessary precautions to avoid being hurt, but that we should fear God above all else and thus put fulfilling the Great Commission above our own desire for safety, knowing that death here means immediate life on the other side.

So do what you can to stay safe friends. Be mindful of your surroundings, carry a weapon, and trust your instincts. But whatever you do… do NOT bow down to fear and let it keep you from doing what God has called you to do. We must not and can not be cowards when it comes to the cause of Christ.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that while there are things in this world that we should fear, we should never allow those fears to be greater than our fear of Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Cause us to fear You above all else so that we would courageously live for You today. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!