Look outside yourself

“Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” Philippians 2:4 NKJV

In a story titled, “Why this man is running for mental health awareness” published earlier this month, it was reported that Chris Vetter, who has struggled with anxiety since high school, ran The New York City Marathon (his first one) for a purpose larger than himself. Upon completing the iconic 26.2 mile race, Vetter said, “The last couple of years have been so difficult for everybody. I wanted to be a part of something bigger... that's why I chose to run with a mental health charity. My anxiety attacks were so bad, one time I actually thought I was dying. I thought the room was caving in and collapsing." Vetter raised money for Still I Run, a nonprofit running community that works to promote the benefits of running for mental health. He was selected from hundreds of applicants. The "Still I Run" team raised over $40,000 at the marathon. "It feels amazing but the job's not done ... this is only the beginning just for my own personal journey and I want to continue on that mission," Vetter said. He now wants to spread the message of how running can really improve one's mental state. At the end of the day, you feel better... you're able to think about everything so much clearer. I encourage everybody to just get outside and run," he said.

And you know, when it comes to getting outside to improve our mental health, we would all do well to get ‘outside’ ourselves by looking out “for the interests of others” more than our own. You see, when you and I focus on ourselves too much we will find all kinds of reasons to be anxious, unsettled or depressed. But when we focus on serving others, we are not only fulfilling a biblical command but changing the way we think and feel about ourselves—seeing ourselves as people who are making a difference. Charles Dickens explained it this way, “No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.” Which means that those people who are the happiest are those people who do the most for others.

So look for opportunities to do good my friend. Especially at those times when you don’t feel like it. You’ll not only lighten the load of those around you but yours as well. Serving others has the power to do that.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that our spirits are always lifted when we lift the spirits of others whether by word or deed. Help us to look to the needs of others Lord that we would not only give you glory but improve our mental states as well. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Get the Passion Back

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by discussing something I always like to talk about this time of year since so many people who completed the Bass Pro Marathon/Half and/or the Dogwood Canyon trail runs are now experiencing a feeling of melancholy that I have dubbed Post Marathon Depression Disorder or PMDD. This is a condition that commonly occurs several days or weeks after a person crosses the finish line after months of hard training when the excitement wears off and a runner is left somewhere between recovery and getting motivated again. Its’ symptoms range anywhere from feeling a little sad or lost to feeling irritated, unmotivated, lazy, unproductive or even anti-social. It's the valley that many runners sink into after having reached that mountaintop experience that causes them to say to themselves, "What next? What can I do to get back the same passion and determination that I had during those all weeks and months of training?" 

Thankfully, though, there are five things you can do right now to battle this depressive disorder that is totally real. 

1. Register for another race. Seriously, there is nothing like setting a new goal to bridge the gap between what you did and what you're going to do that works better to squelch those feelings of depression. This will allow you to look back and smile and then look forward to what's next with an even bigger smile. This might sound so simple but it works.

2. Get some rest and enjoy it. The second part is the key. Let yourself enjoy it! You've been training every weekend for months right? At this point you might not even remember a Saturday or Sunday where a long run wasn't on the schedule. But guess what? You've earned the rest. The time off will not only allow you to recharge physically but will refresh you mentally, spiritually, and emotionally too. Training takes a lot out of a person. And if you're worried about being set back from all your gains, don't worry about it. Taking a few days off will benefit you way more than it will set you back. 

3. Cross-train. While training for a marathon or similar big race is great exercise, the repetitive nature of it is bound to result in some imbalances and strained muscle groups. Use this time after your race to identify those tight spots (looking at you quads) and weak areas (hello, glutes and core) and address them. Doing so will prep your body and balance your muscles for the next big goal ahead. Some great things to do include swimming, aqua running (being sure to include flexibility and strength training moves), biking, yoga, and the elliptical. On a side note, as someone who's done all of the above, I highly encourage aqua running with some hip mobility, and core exercises included. 

4. Get a massage. This will set you up for success to achieve that new goal you've set for yourself. The major benefit of massage is that it relaxes tense muscles and removes adhesions or minor scar tissue between muscles and fascia, a fancy word for the sheath or casing that surrounds your muscles. Unneeded tension and adhesions can restrict movement and impair your range of motion, potentially leading to abnormal movement patterns that can cause overuse injuries. See why a massage is such a great idea? This is something you would benefit from doing often.

5. Join the gym. For real. There are so many benefits to strength training yet very few runners consistently do it. Focus on exercises specific for runners and you'll not only gain new friends at the gym but will gain new muscle and increased flexibility 

So there you have it friends. As someone who's run a lot of races, I can attest that PMDD is very very real. Acknowledge your feelings and know that you're not alone in them. Nearly every runner will experience PMDD at some point in their lives. But you can cut the time down that you experience this disorder significantly by setting another goal. I've got my sights set on a virtual ultra with friends this weekend and that has me smiling from ear to ear. So pick a race and get signed up for it today. Knowing that you have something to train for will get you back outside and have you smiling from ear to ear too. Life's too short to not get back in the saddle. 

Happy Running!!!

The Best Deal Ever

"For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." Ephesians 2:8-9 BSB

In an article titled "30+ Best Cyber Monday Deals for Runners in 2022" published by Runner's World yesterday, the following was said: Cyber Monday is here and the deals are full steam ahead. And after a few years of a global pandemic, everyone has gotten used to doing the bulk of their holiday shopping online, and thankfully, brands have paid attention. So many of your favorite retailers are offering major online deals on running gear for Cyber Monday 2022, so now’s the time to start shopping for yourself or even a gift for someone on your holiday list. We sorted through the thousands of deals to help you find the best prices on running gear, shoes, headphones, smartwatches, and more top-rated fitness products. So read on below for the best Cyber Monday running gear deals worth shopping right now. They sure took the work out of  finding the best deals didn’t they?

And you know, finding great online deals isn't the only thing that doesn't require work. The Bible tells us that it's "by grace" that you and I have been saved and "not by works..." Which means salvation, or the forgiveness of sins, is a gift that we don't deserve and could never work for. That's why it's a "gift of God," freely given to us the moment we put our faith in Jesus Christ. And you can be sure that this "gift" is immeasurably more precious and priceless than anything we could ever find in a store or online. In fact, if unsaved people truly understood the infinite eternal value of receiving salvation you can be sure they would head straight to the Giver of the gift to receive it as well. 

So if you have already accepted the "gift of God" that is salvation, count yourself blessed my friend. But remember that there are countless people in this world who haven't; people that need to hear the Good News of the Gospel. And that's where you come in. Won't you share that Good News today? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that there are lost people in this world in desperate need of salvation. Give us a sense of urgency in reaching these people Lord as the days are drawing shorter. Help us to remember that we are all called to be missionaries whether we are in our own backyards or in a foreign country. It's in your precious name pray Jesus. Amen, 

Happy Running!!!

Beware of the itch

“For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear.” 2 Timothy 4:3 NLT

In an article titled “Runner’s Itch: Why You Might Itch When You Run” published over the weekend, the writer explained the annoying phenomenon that has plagued many a runner in this way: You’re midway through a run when an itchy feeling hits your legs. It’s barely noticeable at first. Then it gets a bit worse … and then a little uncomfortable … and then climbs to PLEASE MAKE IT STOP levels. Within minutes, scratched-up thighs can replace a runner’s high as you claw at your legs in search of relief. This sensation is known as runner’s itch ­— and it’s actually pretty common for beginning runners or those restarting their training after taking time off. And while this condition can be annoying, the writer reported that it’s not a cause for major concern since it’s temporary and typically subsides soon after the workout ends.

And you know, when it comes to doing anything necessary to relieve the discomfort of an itch, the Bible tells us that “a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching” but “will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear” instead. One look at what’s being taught in a growing number of churches today tells us that ‘that time’ is here. People are leaving those churches who refuse to compromise on the truths found in the Bible at record numbers to join those ‘churches’ whose pastors affirm their sexual immorality and hold fast to doctrines that align with the world’s narratives but are completely contrary to the Bible.

So avoid teachers and churches who seek to make their congregation comfortable in their sin my friend. At the expense of easing their itch, they compromise the Truth and lead them astray—something that has eternal consequences. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for those pastors and people who are unwilling to compromise the Word to appease the world. Give them strength in these last days to continue preaching the Truth with no fear of the persecution that is sure to follow. Cause us to be bold witnesses who will be found faithful upon your return Lord. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

Hold to the Traditions

"So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions that you were taught by us, either by our spoken word or by our letter." 2 Thessalonians 2:15 ESV

In a story published by News 2 in Charleston, S.C. yesterday titled, "Runners participate in annual Turkey Day Run before Thanksgiving dinner, "the following was reported: Thousands of turkey trotters are celebrating the Thanksgiving Day holiday after completing an annual run through downtown Charleston. More than 7,000 people packed into Marion Square for the turkey trot – including families dressed in turkey costumes who got their morning boost before the day’s big feast. “We like getting out and having something active to do. It’s fun to be here with all of the people and our family,” said runner Steve Forbes. “It’s just fun being with our family and eating the feast,” added Anna Forbes. At the finish line, two out-of-town visitors said starting their Thanksgiving with a quick run is a long-standing tradition.

And you know, when it comes to keeping long-standing traditions, Paul knew that the believers at Thessalonica would face pressure from false teachers, persecution, apathy, and worldliness to waver from the truth and abandon the faith--so he urged them to "stand firm and hold to the traditions" or the long-established pure doctrine that was passed on by both the authoritative spoken word and the letters written by him and the other apostles. Paul understood that the anchor of God's Word was the only thing that would render them completely grounded and immovable in the midst of tribulation and temptation. 

So hold on to the truth of Christ's teachings my friend, knowing that the same pressure to conform to the world's views is as intense today as it was then, and getting worse every day. Make it a long-standing tradition knowing it's of eternal value, and be sure to pass it on. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that the pressure to yield to the ways of the world is something the apostles faced and were able to overcome. Help us to follow their example and to stand firm until the end. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Be sure to thank Him

“One of them, when he saw that he was healed, came back to Jesus, shouting, “Praise God!” He fell to the ground at Jesus’ feet, thanking him for what he had done. This man was a Samaritan.” Luke 17:15-16 NLT

In an article titled, “Cardiologist Rescuscitates Two Fellow Runners During California Half Marathon” published Tuesday, the following was reported: Two runners collapsed and needed mid-race medical attention at the Monterey Bay Half Marathon on November 13. Until help arrived, runner and local cardiologist Steven Lome, D.O., administered life-saving measures to both male runners. Lome, who encountered the runners at separate times along the 13.1 mile course but did not treat them in the hospital, later tweeted: “Both had undiagnosed heart disease, out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, and made full recoveries. What are the odds that two people have a cardiac arrest in one race? What are the odds they both make a full recovery (normally only 5% survive out of hospital cardiac arrest?) What are the odds that the same cardiologist happens to be right behind them both???” I'd say the odds are pretty slim, wouldn't you? 

And you know, when it comes to life-saving treatments and the odds, the Bible gives us the story of the ten lepers who begged Jesus to take away their leprosy. As horribly painful and disfiguring as this condition was, you would expect the odds to be 100% that all ten would return and thank Jesus after completely healing them wouldn’t you? But can you believe that ONLY one of those healed came back to Jesus shouting “Praise God!?” Only one! The other nine went on their way seemingly oblivious to the miracle that had just happened and ungrateful of the love and mercy the Savior showed. And while you and I might be shaking our heads in unbelief at this point, how many times have we failed to thank the Savior for His unmerited grace, kindness and mercy?

So as we celebrate this Thanksgiving holiday, let us publicly shout ”Praise God!” and then fall at Jesus' feet, thanking Him for all He has done for us. Can you think of any better way to start the day? With 100% certainty, I can say absolutely not. Expressing our gratitude to the Savior is the best way to start today and every day. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for loving us despite the many times we failed to thank You. Thank You for the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross and the forgiveness of sin that provided us. Today and every day cause us to acknowledge You as the Giver of all good things, both in our prayer closets and in the city streets. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Go for a Gratitude Run

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about something many of us will be practicing this week of Thanksgiving.... mindful gratefulness or the practice of focusing on the here and now and all the ways we are blessed. And why is this a good thing to do today and every day? Because, as Richelle Goodrich wisely said, "Gratitude doesn’t change the scenery. It merely washes clean the glass you look through so you can clearly see the colors." In other words, gratitude helps us discover things that we would never have thought to express thanks for. It shines a light on the little things that make our lives better.

So whether you're participating in a turkey-trot with friends this holiday or running solo while you wait for the turkey to cook and the family to arrive, I do hope that you'll turn your Thanksgiving Run into a Gratitude Run. And remember.... expressing gratitude has tons of health benefits like helping you sleep better, lowering inflammation in your heart, and bringing peace to your body and soul. That being said, check out these things you can do to turn an ordinary run into a run filled with thankfulness. 

Count your blessings. 

If you’re thinking… oh boy where do I start? Try starting small and working your way up. My thoughts will go something like this, “Thank you Lord for my morning cup of coffee and the sun that never ceases to rise. Thank you for the food you provided for our feast this year. I’m thankful for the people I’ll share it with, for the heat that will fill the room and for my home that serves as the gathering place. And I'm super thankful for the memories that will be made.” Do you see where I’m going with this? And before you think you don’t have anything to be thankful for consider that 34 million people don’t have enough to eat. So if you have a feast planned, rejoice! 

Remind yourself that running is a gift. 

When was the last time you stopped to think about what a blessing it is to run? I personally have three friends that are on the injured list right now and can't run. They want to run but they can't. Remember that as you're out there on your Gratitude Run over the holiday weekend. 

Stop chasing PRs for a day or two.

Gratitude Runs aren't about speed. Remember that you're not rushing to the finish line or so there's no need to check your Garmin. Don't try cruising along at your marathon goal pace either. Think about friends you've known for decades or all the news ones you've made this year and how lucky you are to have met them. Slow down to breathe in the fresh air all around you and to take notice of the sky’s beauty. Stop for a minute or two to just "be" and be thankful for the heart beating in your chest. Do you realize that the average person's heart beats about 100,000 times a day? Have you ever thanked your Creator for even one of those beats? Today's a great day to do that. 

Prepare yourself for the day ahead. 

Gratitude Runs are such a great way to get ready for a day that for many can be hectic. Prepare yourself mentally to look at the cup as half full rather than half empty no matter what happens. The turkey burned? No worries. Eat ham. Relatives fighting? No worries. Be thankful for simply having family.  Whatever goes awry this week, determine within yourself while out on your run that you’re going to keep the joy despite any snafus and then practice smiling as you run. It not only floods you with feel good hormones but will actually make your run seem easier; something actually backed up by science. 

Vow to practice mindful gratitude on Thanksgiving (and every day). 

Why wait for January 1st to make a resolution that literally has the power to change your life? Gratitude changes everything. Still not convinced? Here's what science says about it:

Gratitude has been found to be the #1 predictor of well-being and a strong determinant of resilience. Resilient people proactively cultivate positive emotions like humor, gratitude and optimism. You don’t even have to find anything to be grateful for. The simple act of looking for the positive decreases the stress hormone cortisol by 23%. Just looking for something to appreciate increases serotonin and dopamine, the feel-good neurochemicals in most antidepressants. Gratitude affects your brain at a neurological level. A gratitude practice has a positive impact on: sleep, mood, alertness, physical risk markers for future disease, happiness, better financial decision making, problem solving, optimism, productivity, and goal orientation. People who practice gratitude are perceived as more likeable, have fewer aches and pains, have increased self esteem, and make friends more easily. Practicing gratitude lowers stress, enhances empathy, lowers your risk of cancer, high blood pressure, and diabetes, and it improves your immune system and cardiovascular health.

So there you have it friends. Gratitude put into practice is not only good for us but for those around us. For that reason I hope that you'll choose to practice it every day not just on Thanksgiving. And if you're like me, no matter how far your run takes you, you'll never run out of things to be thankful for. Now get out there and go for a 'gratitude run.' And if you can't run then walk. Just get out there and soak up some sunshine. It's gonna be a great day!

HAPPY RUNNING!

Make sure Jesus knows you

“On judgment day many will say to me, ‘Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name.’ But I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God’s laws.’” Matthew 7:22-23 NLT

In an article titled, “U.S. ultramathron runner Camille Herron breaks World record, but there's a catch” published by Fox News last week, the following was reported: Professional long distance runner Camille Herron ran for an unprecedented 100 miles, but later found out it did not set the world record.Herron is widely viewed as one of the top ultrarunners in the world. In February, she won the Jackpot Ultra Running Festival 100-miler in Nevada.The race was billed as the USA Track and Field 100 Mile Road Championships. It took Herron 12 hours, 41 minutes and 11 seconds, which beat second-place finisher Arlen Glick by almost 30 minutes. She beat her own record of 12 hours, 42 minutes and 40 second, or at least that what she figured. The course was remeasured twice, and officials ultimately ruled that the course had been shortened by 716 feet. The alteration meant the USA Track and Field committee would not ratify Herron's record. The 40-year-old runner said the situation has been devastating. She went on to say “ I hope I get another opportunity at the record, but I may not — you don’t know what the future holds.”

And you know, when it comes to devastating situations and hoping for another opportunity to set things right, the Bible tells us that on judgment day many people will be utterly shocked and deeply grieved to learn that, despite their greatest efforts to work their way into heaven, Jesus will say, “I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God’s laws.” You see, although people will try to justify themselves as worthy of heaven on the basis of their works, only true faith in Christ will grant a person access to heaven since Jesus only knows His own, or those who have accepted Him as Lord and Savior. Everyone else is considered a lawbreaker whose sins are deserving of death.

So knowing that there will be no second chances on the day we stand before the throne, let me ask you this my friend… do you know Jesus or just know of Him? The answer to that is of eternal importance because it will determine where you spend eternity. Make the decision to follow Him now, if you haven’t already, to avoid hearing the most devastating words that could ever be spoken… “I never knew you.”

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that ONLY those people who have a relationship with Jesus are known by You and will be allowed into heaven. Cause us to truly understand that none of us knows what the future holds so that we would not put off making the choice to follow You now and would warn others to take heed as well. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

Don’t grumble or complain

“Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky” Philippians 2:14-15 NIV

“It was cold, it was windy, it was hilly and it was a BLAST! I am so blessed to have Melissa Martinez Sharp and Bill Hardwick by my side to make every step of the Honoring Our Heroes Marathon much fun from start to finish!!” Those were the words my dear friend Gretchen posted Saturday after a 26.2 mile run that began with a feel-like temperature of 4° and ended with a temperature that didn’t feel much warmer because of the gusts of wind that plagued the three of us along the course. In fact, it was so frigid throughout the day that most people would have written something like this instead... “It was cold, it was windy, it was hilly and it was just awful from the beginning to the end.” With that being said, which person would you rather run a marathon with or spend time with? The one who smiles and laughs during hard times or the one who grumbles and complains about everything? I don’t know about you but I will always choose the person with joy.

And you know, when it comes to complaining about things, the Bible says that we are to “do everything without grumbling or arguing.” Why? Because our joyful attitude in all situations is what sets followers of Christ apart from others and compels people to be in our presence. You see, in this dark world, people are just naturally attracted to those people who shine the light of Jesus… those who shine “like stars in the sky.” They might not even understand that it’s the light of Jesus that shines through that draws them to us, only that they enjoy being around those people who are happy, uplifting, and encouraging.

So always choose joy my friend, by remembering that you can’t always control what’s happening around you but you CAN control the way you react to those things. And the way you and I react has the power to either draw people to Christ or to lead them away.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that our words and actions have power. Fill us with your abundant joy Lord that it might flow out from us into the world. Help us to shine like stars in a dark world because of our decision to remain joyful, grateful and thankful in all situations. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

Warn Everyone

“Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears” Acts 20:31 NKJV

In an article titled “BPA Found in Not Only Sports Bras, but Also Other Athletic Wear, According to Watchdog Group” published recently, the following was reported:

Although bisphenol A (BPA) has been used in the production of some plastics since the 1950s, it got widespread attention a few years ago when research indicated that BPA can seep into food and beverages from containers made with the chemical. That led to a larger effort to remove BPA from the manufacturing process for items like reusable water bottles. Now, watchdog group Center for Environmental Health (CEH) reports that it isn’t only food and beverage containers that are a concern—some athletic wear could also be causing exposure risk. They went on name the companies producing clothing containing BPAs well over the safe limit set by California’s law, Proposition 65 and reported that the CEH sent legal notices to all of the them who will have 60 days to work with the organization to address manufacturing practices before a complaint is filed in California state court.

And you know, when it comes to warning people about the dangers all around them, the Bible tells us that Paul stayed at the church at Ephesus for three years preaching and teaching the whole will of God—urging the believers to watch over themselves and to be shepherds of the church of God. Paul did this because he loved them and didn’t want them to go astray or to fall for the devil’s schemes. In fact, Paul loved them so much that he was literally moved to tears warning “everyone night and day” of the perils and temptations that awaited them so that they would stand firm.

So knowing that there are dangers ahead for the church as a whole, let us love our brothers and sisters the same way Paul did—caring enough to unceasingly warn them to keep watch so they would not be drawn away by distorted truths and false doctrines.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that the devil is always on the prowl and works though deceptive people to deceive faithful members of the flock. Give us a heart of love for our brothers and sisters that compels us to keep watch over them and warn them of dangers. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

Your Soul has Eternal Value

"And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?" Matthew 16:26 NLT

In an article titled, "Chinese chain-smoking marathon runner completes 26 miles in less than three and a half hours, " published yesterday, the following was reported: Nicknamed "Uncle Chen", the serial smoker leant on the old habit while completing the Xin'anjiang Marathon near Shanghai last week. Chen, 50, finished the arduous race in just 3hrs 28mins and placed 574th out of more than 1,500 competitors.After pictures of Chen went viral on social media site Weibo, race organisers shared his race certificate and confirmed the impressive finishing time. Chen has also been pictured chain-smoking while tackling other events, including the 2018 Guangzhou Marathon and 2019 Xiamen Marathon. He finished the 2018 race in 3hrs 36mins and the 2019 contest in 3hrs 32mins, Canadian Running Magazine reported. Local media reportedly noted that Uncle Chen only smokes when he runs. Chen first achieved fame when racegoers branded him "Smoking Brother" during marathons in 2017. This just goes to show that people will go to great lengths to get famous, even at the expense of their health. 

And you know, in a society where more and more people seem fixated on achieving fame at any cost, we would all do well to consider the questions Jesus asked, "what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul?Is anything worth more than your soul?" And the obvious answer is nothing you and I could ever gain in this world is more valuable than gaining all that Jesus has to offer both now and in eternity. You see, any fame, fortune, power or prestige gained at the expense of following Jesus in this lifetime will be left behind or lost when we die. Which is the very reason we should work to achieve and acquire only those things that are eternal—living to be famous only in the Father’s eyes. 

So work to gain a right relationship with Christ above all else my friend. This will not only ensure that you spend eternity with Him but will allow you to evaluate all that happens from an eternal perspective; something that will benefit you both here and in the hereafter. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that there's nothing worth gaining in this world that is more valuable than our souls. Cause us to remember Lord that to lose one’s soul is to die without a right relationship with You and to, therefore, spend an eternity in the lake of fire. May that thought inspire us to pursue You will all our might and to encourage others to do the same. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION- A Trip down Memory Lane

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by taking a walk down memory lane. It seems like just yesterday I was running the hills of Dogwood Canyon with my friends as part of the Bass Pro Fitness Series. Oh wait! It wasn't yesterday but it was less than a week ago! It's the lingering quad pain that makes it all seem so fresh right?

Well... whether or not you, yourself, ran the 15k, 25k, 50k or one of the challenges (that included either the 25k or 50k Saturday and then the 15k Sunday), I think you'll enjoy seeing some of the pictures from this iconic event and what some of the trail runners said was the 'best part' about running Dogwood. On a side note... this might just leave you with serious FOMO on the 2023 event so beware. Once registration opens, it will sell out pretty quickly.

So without further ado check out what these crazy trail runners had to say about my most favorite running weekend of the year....

When I realized I forgot my shoes and my daughter met me halfway to save me 2 hours. The other thing was meeting 2 sisters age 70 & 77 who both ran the 15k.- Sheree Wilson

Mile 2 on Saturday 25k I was almost hit by a fleeing deer!! Pretty scary and amazing at the same time!! - Seth Michael

Most memorable moment when I caught up to a random dude (Phil), we both chatted for a sec about our goal to PR the 25k, and he said “We got this let’s go!” (or something close to it) and we both took off! I crossed about a minute after him but he waited for me and congratulated me!! That’s the thing about most trail runners, they just want everyone to succeed and they are amazing human beings!! Such an awesome event, can’t wait to come back next year - Angi Betran

My most memorable moment was probably seeing the dusting of snow on the ground! It was so pretty out there! Also realizing that the water crossings didn’t feel nearly as cold as I was afraid they would. - Madeline Tourville

Yesterday was my first time running Dogwood Canyon Trail Runs - 15k, 25K & 50K. I really enjoyed it and won't be forgetting those hills anytime soon. - Rich Dameron

The snow blowing and bald eagle fly over during Saturday national anthem! Beautiful! - Tammy Condren

I ran. Only had 2 miles to go before leg gave so didn’t finish but had lots of fun going. I’ll try again next time. - Derek Smith

The thankfulness I feel for the beautiful park and the strength to get out there and run it. - Hannah Spots

Didn’t know I looked so happy while simultaneously cussing each step. It was amazing though! - Duane Hamilton

Lots of amazing moments from the weekend but my favorite involved my 17 year old daughter on Sunday. Not only did we both place in age groups, she finished and said “I just love trail running”… and this photo says it all. - Chad Johnson

I just love getting out and seeing what my body can do and doing it alongside old friends while making new ones. Exploring God's beauty on foot is such a blessing. - Laura Murrieta

First ever 25K!!! - Gina Rendon

I got a 19 minute PR on the 25k Saturday. My favorite thing was my family traveling with me for a race for the very first time. I loved the snow on Saturday and the frost flowers on Sunday. - Ashley Hopkins

No need for words... Sharon Hendrix

Those finish line burritos! Seeing Dogwood in a dusting of snow was really spectacular! Also, catching up with friends before & after the race! - Jennifer Stewart

The whole social aspect I think. Dogwood has such a special feel to it. It’s a family tradition for us, now. Friends, family, what a wunnerful weekend! My daughter running so well and being so kind is another favorite part of it. I mean, as much as I love her running prowess, she has a kind heart, like her mama. That’s priceless! -John Everett

First time I’ve ever had a mid race injury and considered a DNF but I limped myself to the finish and limped the whole 15k the next day and actually think I’ll do it again next year! So many good friends out there to support David Murphy Charlie Hungerford John Everett Heidi Thomas Lisa Geary Alicia Adamson Jeff Newman and many I left off. - Jessica Renee

I met & ran alongside Danny Correll last year for my first 15k. He helped me after I fell on the course. I turned around at the start this year and there he was. We chatted for a few minutes & then got on with the race. Caught up with him afterwards to find out we both placed 1st in AG. Fun moment. - Amanda Doty

My favorite part? The time spent out on the trail alone. Really. This picture, taken Saturday at mile 13-ish where the 50k and the 25k runners split, captures what I love so much about Dogwood Canyon... wide open spaces, the sounds of nature, the smells of fall, the brisk water crossings, and a big beautiful sky. For the next 18 miles I was in near solitude... left alone with my thoughts and the overwhelming presence of the Creator who, we are told in Romans 1:20, displays His "invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature" to be seen and understood by all from that has been made. And with the dusting of snow this year, it was a time I will forever cherish. And since every Dogwood Canyon running evokes such feelings, I can't wait to do it again! Truly.

So there you have it friends. These are just a few of the stories that came out of this weekend. I'd have to write a book to tell you more. But I do hope you'll come see what all the fuss is about for yourself. With three distances that you can run, walk, or hike, there's a race for everyone. And if you don't want to run, think about volunteering. I think they had as much fun as the runners! Registration for all events opens March 22 so mark your calendars.

HAPPY RUNNING!

They’ll Know by Our Walk

“Whoever claims to abide in Him must walk as Jesus walked.” 1 John 2:6 BSB

Upon waking up yesterday morning, I just knew the day was going to be a rough one. After running 50 kilometers of trails on Saturday and then another 15 kilometers on Sunday to complete the Dogwood Canyon Trail Series Challenge, my legs were toast. With close to 6000 feet of elevation gain over two days, the hills and hollers of Lampe, Missouri proved to be a quad crusher that rendered me unable to walk normally. “My goodness, what happened to you?” my coworker asked as I walked into our early Monday morning meeting. Without having to say a word, she new something was different because of my new style of walking. Smiling, I replied, “I’ll be fine in a few days. This is what nearly 41 miles of running gnarly trails will do to a person.” And then I laughed and added, “And yes. I can’t wait to do this again.”

And you know, there’s really no better way to tell that someone has completed a long or hard run recently than by the way they walk. Commonly referred to as the ‘marathon shuffle,’ it sets runners apart in the same way that walking “as Jesus walked” does. You see, you and I can claim to love Christ until we are blue in the face. But the proof they say is in the pudding because the Bible is very clear that “whoever claims to abide in Him must walk as Jesus walked.” Which means people will know that we are Christ followers by the way we live our lives and should know without us saying a word that we exist to serve the Savior by the way we listen, follow, and obey Him.  

So let me ask you this my friend… Does the way you walk show that you are in close communion with Christ? And that you live to serve Him above all else? Are you walking in step with Him? I sure hope so because being set apart is the only way that you and I will ever lead anyone to the foot of the Cross. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we are to live in such a way that people know that we are faithful followers by the way we walk. Help us to walk as You walk Lord so that we might lead others to do the same.  It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Watch out for Divine Appointments

“The LORD directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.” Psalm 37:23 NLT

After stopping for lunch on Sunday upon completing the Dogwood Canyon 50k/15k Trail Challenge—in which I ran 31 miles on Saturday and 9.3 on Sunday—I smiled as my husband, Larry, drove us home. “Oh Lord,” I thought to myself. “Thank you for the conversation Larry and I just had with the man that “just happened” to sit beside us at the restaurant who was on his way to the airport. It was equally encouraging for all of us. And thank you for the special time I had with three young ladies this morning who “just happened” to miss the devotional and prayer I performed before the start of the race. I was able to give them the message one on one because of the timing of the intersection (they arrived right after), adding those extra words they needed to hear apart from the crowd, and then to pray with them in a way that was meant especially for them…. all in time to make it to the start line. You are so good at arranging divine appointments that are always right on time.”

And you know, when it comes to divine appointments or meetings between believers that are arranged by the Father himself, the Bible tells us that, “The LORD directs the steps of the godly...” Do you just love that or what? Because He delights in every detail of our lives, God will arrange for brothers and sisters in Christ to meet at just the right moment for just the right purpose. Whether it’s to sharpen one another, offer up prayer, or to simply provide a word of encouragement, you can be sure the Lord takes great pleasure in meeting the needs of those He loves through fellow believers.

So be on the alert at all times for those supernatural encounters that the Lord might be orchestrating today my friend. Don’t hesitate to speak when He says speak or act when He prompts you to do so. And whether it’s done for your benefit or someone else’s you can be sure that you’ll be blessed.

Heavenly Father, thank You for loving us so much that You would move the pieces of our lives together to create a ‘checkmate’ at just the right moment for the right purpose. Help us not to miss these moments Lord knowing that You are working through them. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

Give Respect where it's Due

“Pay everyone what you owe him: taxes to whom taxes are due, revenue to whom revenue is due, respect to whom respect is due, honor to whom honor is due.” Romans 13:7 BSB

As I stood at the start line of the Bass Pro Marathon last Sunday after performing the prerace devotional, I listened intently to the words of our national anthem being sung that would signify the beginning of the race, “whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight…” and was overcome with thankfulness for the sacrifice of the thousands of veterans who have fought “the perilous fight” so I could be free to do the things I love – things like worshiping the Lord in public and running races such as this one - because I know full well the freedoms we Americans enjoy were not really ‘free’ at all. They were earned through the hard work and bought by the sacrifice of countless veterans over many generations who unselfishly chose to serve our country to ensure it was and will stay the “land of the free and home of the brave.”

And you know, when it comes to expressing our thankfulness, the Bible is clear that you and I are to “pay everyone” what we owe them. This means giving “respect to whom respect is due” and “honor to whom honor is due.” And if giving someone respect and honor means holding them in high esteem as a result of something they have done or were willing to do, you and I would do well to thank the men and women who have served in both times of peace and war for their willingness to join “the perilous fight” whenever and wherever they were called to go.

So on this Veteran’s Day, may we be sure to give “honor to whom honor is due” by thanking a veteran for their service to our country. After all, as George Orwell wrote, “People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf.”

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that freedom is never free and that we owe a debt of gratitude to the men and women who served to make our country a place where we are free to worship You. Help us to return to being a country once again fully united under the slogan “one nation under God” Lord that their service might not have been in vain. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Guard your Mouth

“Set a guard over my mouth, LORD; keep watch over the door of my lips.” Psalm 141:3 NIV

In an article posted by Runner’s World after the finish of Sundays world famous New York Marathon, the following was reported: Sharon Lokedi of Kenya, making her marathon debut in New York, raced like a veteran. She showed patience and grit, and it paid off with a narrow victory over two of the prerace favorites. Lokedi, 28, was one of nine women in the lead pack up First Avenue. But when Gotytom Gebreslase of Ethiopia, the reigning world champion, made a strong move at about 16 and a half miles, Lokedi didn’t bite. Two others did, but Lokedi and Lonah Chemtai Salpeter, who was born in Kenya and is now an Israeli citizen, hung slightly back. By mile 18 they were 11 seconds off the lead. That moment of restraint paid dividends later…. Lokedi kept herself in position to win the race first by what she didn’t do. She didn’t go with the break at 16 miles. And then over the final miles, no one else was stronger. Do you just love that or what? One moment of restraint can indeed make all the difference.

And you know, practicing restraint or self control at the right time will not only help you finish a race strong but will help you from saying something you might regret. You see, as David knew, it’s easy for us to speak words that hurt other people or tarnish our witness—especially when we don’t take the time to consider the impact our words might have once they leave our mouths. Which is the very reason David beseeched the Lord to set a guard over his mouth and to watch over the door of his lips. He didn’t want the same mouth that prayed and praised Him to be used for lies or any other evil thing.

So let us practice restraint or in our speech by pausing, praying and thinking before we open our mouths my friend. This is the only way to ensure that we voice only those words that build up others and bring glory to God—something that makes all the difference in our pursuit to be like Christ and lead others to the foot of the Cross. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that words matter. Please guard our mouths and watch over our lips Lord. Allow only gracious and righteous words to flow out from us so that we would not dishonor You in any way.  It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!