Praise Him Through the Pain

"Praise the LORD! Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever." Psalm 106:1 NKJV

In a story titled “Research Says Run/Walk Intervals Can Help Alleviate Back Pain” published Wednesday, it was reported that nearly 620 million people worldwide have chronic low back pain, according to the World Health Organization, and prevalence in the U.S. is high. One estimate notes that up to 28 percent of Americans may struggle with the issue at some point in their lives, and 44 percent of those with chronic back pain report having it for five years or longer. Potentially making back pain worse: Avoidance of exercise. Some people believe that physical activity—especially any kind of intense or high-impact exercise like running—will lead to a higher pain level and mobility limitations. However, new research suggests the opposite may be true… The takeaway from the study is that, for most people with low back pain, running is safe if you start small and build up gradually,“ said lead author Chris Neason, Ph.D.(c), a researcher and exercise physiologist at Monash University in Australia. He told Runner’s World that running helps load spinal discs in a way that other exercise, like cycling or swimming, doesn’t. “Our spinal discs respond well to this loading, and it can strengthen the back muscles and may have an anti-inflammatory effect,” he said. “We also saw in our study that running improved confidence and led to better mental health.”

And, you know, exercise isn't the only thing people avoid when they are in pain or going through a season of suffering. They also avoid praising God. But praising God in our trials is the very thing we should do! You see, as the Bible reminds us, God is good and His mercy endures forever. Even when our circumstances aren't good, God never changes. Which means He will never stop causing all things to work together for our good and He will never stop showing us love, faithfulness, and compassion despite our sins that warrant death. Because God is always good then, we should always "Praise the Lord!" The takeaway from this also is, when we praise through our pain, we are reminded of the goodness of God which leads to better mental health by helping us to see our trials as they are... light and momentary in view of eternity. 

So if you're walking through a valley right now, don't let it keep you from thanking the Lord for his unending goodness and praising Him for his faithful mercy my friend. It will not only bring joy to your heart but will inspire others to praise Him as well. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for your goodness, grace, and mercy that never changes. Lord, when (not if) we go through trials and experience the pain that comes from living in a broken world, help us to praise You with all that we have knowing this life is not all there is and that one day soon You are coming back to get us. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Love Like Jesus

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.  By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.’” John 13:34-35 NKJV

In a heartwarming story published Monday by K8 Arkansas News Monday, it was reported that Robert Montgomery captured the moment his daughter Kaylee stopped to help another runner who went down in the final stretch of a race. Kaylee was running the last race of her high school career when she saw another student on the ground. “As soon as I saw her, I just thought, ‘I can’t leave her.’ I was like, ‘I have to help her,’” she said. Montgomery was trying to finish at her personal best, but that was the last thing on her mind when she helped Julia, a runner whose legs gave out just short of the finish line. “I told my parents afterward, ‘Jesus wouldn’t pass me by if I was falling down and couldn’t get up.’ He would pick me up,’” she said… Montgomery said she’ll remember the race forever but said the moment is not about her. “Not that it was me, that it was able to help her, but me showing the light of Jesus and how he’s helped me,” she said. “To show that through my own actions by helping someone else.”

And, you know, when it comes to showing the light of Jesus to a world in desperate need of seeing it, there’s no greater thing that we could ever do than to love others as Jesus loved us. You see, in a world that values self over selflessness, this remarkable love that causes us to consider the needs of others above our own not only sets us apart as followers of Jesus but inspires the lost to seek the One who inspires this extraordinary and otherworldly love— the same love that Jesus showed us when, while were still sinners, He willingly died on a cross to save us from our sins. 

So when given an opportunity to help someone, don’t pass them by my friend. Even if it means forfeiting your own race. After all, our personal best isn’t measured by the time on a clock but by our wholehearted devotion to Jesus Christ and our love for one another. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that our lives are not our own and that everything we do and say should be for your glory. Help us to always put Your will above our will so that by our actions we can love others as you first loved us. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - The Dirt on DOMS

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 Dogwood Canyon Trail Runs that took place this last weekend. If you were there, then you know that it was a lot of fun! But you also know (especially if you participated in the Dogwood Challenge and ran both days) that running all those hills would leave you with a very high chance of experiencing DOMS or Delayed Onset of Muscle Soreness this week. I don't know about you but, as I'm writing this (on Tuesday afternoon), I'm still experiencing pain in my quads from completing the 50k/15k challenge. With that being said, this is a great time to talk about what DOMS is, what causes it, how long it might last, and whether there's anything that can be done to speed up the healing process. 

So without further ado, check out these answers to your most pressing questions:

What is DOMS?

It’s a term used for the stiffness and discomfort you experience sometime after completing exercise; it’s generally felt between 24 and 72 hours after the offending session.

When we exercise, we create micro-trauma in our muscles. This might sound like something to avoid, but it’s actually a necessary part of training. Also known as myofibril tearing, this micro-level damage triggers your body to go into repair mode using its natural inflammatory response. With adequate recovery, this helps you to become stronger.

DOMS is likely to occur when you introduce something new to your training regime or push beyond your current training limits. This is because you had run further and at a higher intensity on race day than you had in your months of training. And face it, unless you live near extreme terrain like Dogwood, like me you most likely couldn’t train for the Lampe hills to the degree necessary to come out unscathed. 

What causes DOMS?

High-intensity exercise can cause tiny, microscopic tears in your muscle fibers. Your body responds to this damage by increasing inflammation, which may lead to a delayed onset of soreness in the muscles.

Pretty much any high-intensity exercise can cause DOMS, but one kind in particular, known as eccentric exercise, often triggers it. Eccentric exercises cause you to tense a muscle at the same time you lengthen it.

For example, the controlled, downward motion as you straighten your forearm after a biceps curl is an eccentric movement. The way your quads tense up when running downhill is also an eccentric movement. With all those downhills at Dogwood, it's no wonder a lot of runners earned the burn! 

It was once thought that a buildup of exercise-induced lactic acid was to blame for DOMS, but this common misconception has been debunked. Acute muscle soreness is due to lactic acid buildup. DOMS, on the other hand, is not related to lactic acid buildup; it’s due to microscopic tears and muscle damage. So make sure you have your nonsense radar turned on when it comes to products or training methods that say they can reduce DOMS.

How to recognize DOMS

DOMS symptoms typically occur 12 to 24 hours after a workout and the pain tends to peak about one to three days after your workout, and then should ease up after that.

Symptoms of DOMS to watch out for may include:

• pain when stretching muscles, leading them to become contracted and tight
• muscles that feel tender to the touch
• reduced range of motion due to pain and stiffness when moving
• swelling in the affected muscles
• muscle fatigue
• short-term loss of muscle strength

What to do about DOMS

Active recovery: Just stopping might not be the best option. However, expecting to get out of the door and run another fast or steady run while experiencing DOMS is not likely to end well (trust me, I speak from experience.) Consider a gentle walk, an easy (note the words gentle and easy) spin on a bike or a swim as an impact-free way to increase your blood flow.

Rest and recover: If you're very sore, rest. Ultimately, the effects of DOMS are short-lived. Focus on getting good nutrition and sleep. And don't worry: you won't lose fitness if you need to stop training for two or three days.

Ride it out: You will see a great many suggestions for ways to reduce the pain of DOMS, from ice baths to ibuprofen. Most experts will tell you to steer clear of these options unless you've been advised otherwise by a medical professional. An inflammation cycle is important; it's part of how you get stronger, so using aids intended to reduce this might actually have a negative impact on your body.

When to seek medical help

DOMS rarely requires a trip to the doctor. But the American Council on Sports Medicine recommends you see a doctor or nurse practitioner if the pain from DOMS stops you from doing your normal daily activities.

You should also seek medical attention right away if:

• your DOMS lasts longer than 7 days
• your urine becomes abnormally dark
• you have severe swelling in your arms and legs

Very rarely, patients with DOMS can develop severe swelling of the muscles which leads to a condition called compartment syndrome. This is a dangerous condition that requires emergency medical attention. These patients experience such severe pain that they are unable to move their muscles.

The takeaway

If you’re experiencing DOMS like a lot of other Dogwood runners right now, use self-care measures to help lessen the discomfort while your body heals and, most of all, be patient. Take it easy on yourself and you should be back to running in a few days. 

Also, with time, DOMS should start to happen less often as your body gets used to the workouts you put it through. 

*On a side note, no matter what I've done, I have never walked away from the Dogwood Canyon 50k, much less the challenge, without experiencing varying degrees of DOMS and it's never made me say, "I'm never doing that again." Sometimes DOMS is worth it.

So there you have it friends. The 2024 Bass Pro Fitness Series of events has come to an end, as will any DOMS you might be experiencing. But the memories of another Dogwood Canyon weekend will last forever! I don't know about you but I'm already anticipating next year’s race and I hope you are too.  Happy Running!

Study to Show Yourself Approved

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV

In a story published by the Daily Mail yesterday, it was reported that a marathon runner in China missed out on first place after he was accidentally sent in the wrong direction by race volunteers. The incident took place during the 2024 Hangzhou Marathon held on the morning of November 3. In the footage, Ethiopian runner Tesfaye Deriba Ketema can be seen in the lead with his Kenyan rival Moses Kibet trailing close behind. However, as they approach the finish line, both runners appear to misinterpret the race staff's hand signals and they take a wrong turn. Both men hastily realise their mistake and sprint to the finish line. Unfortunately for Mr Ketema, however, the mistake meant that his trailing rival Mr Kibet was able to assume the lead in the race - without even overtaking him. This is due to the fact they were forced to double-back to follow the correct route, putting Mr Kibet into the lead. Mr Ketema was unable to reclaim his leading position, and Mr Kibet crossed the finish line in first place - claiming top prize with a time of 2:07:47. Mr Ketema was just six seconds behind but his mistake was a costly one as it meant he missed out on the £41,800 cash prize for first place.

And, you know, while it’s one thing to accidentally misinterpret someone’s hand signals, it’s a whole nother thing to purposely misinterpret the Bible. Which is the very thing people do when they fail to thoroughly “study” the Word as they should and choose to “cherry-pick” individual verses or passages so as to take them out of context instead. You see, there is a right way and a wrong way to divide “the word of truth.” And the right way takes the WHOLE Bible into account as though it is one large story, because it is! Scripture ALWAYS supports scripture. You will NEVER read something in God’s Word that contradicts itself. This correct handling of the word is crucial then because it keeps people from translating scripture in a way that supports an ungodly narrative or gives approval for actions, thoughts, and lifestyles that the Bible clearly condemns.

So in the words of Paul, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God” and not unto man my friend. Make it a priority to devote your time and attention to knowing what the word says, and knowing what the word means so that you will be known as “a workmen that needeth not to be ashamed” and as a person who correctly explains “the word of truth.”  In this way you won’t be responsible for sending someone in the wrong direction. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that the Bible must be studied and analyzed as a whole so it can be taken into context and explained correctly. Help us to refute errors in the way the world translates the Bible by picking single verses and using them to fit their narrative, thereby wrongly dividing it Lord. And please cause us to be bold in pointing out the truth in love, knowing that by doing so we are keeping people from going in the wrong direction and missing out on eternal life. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus amen.

Happy Running!

Cling to the Rock that is Higher than you

“Hear my cry, O God; Attend to my prayer. From the end of the earth I will cry to You, When my heart is overwhelmed; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” Psalm 61:1-2 NKJV

After finishing up the Dogwood Canyon 50k trail run late Saturday afternoon (after nearly eight hours of running), my husband (who was waiting for me at the finish line after completing the 25k earlier) and I headed back to our room to prepare for day two of the Dogwood Canyon Challenge, which would require completing another 15k of trails. And if the thought of another morning spent running up and down the Ozark trails didn’t fill my heart with joy, knowing that I had the blessing of delivering the prerace devotional before  the race began did. “Lord,” I prayed as I propped up my tired feet and began to prepare Sunday’s message, “what would you have me say to encourage these runners tomorrow to complete life’s race when the course before them is hard?” 

And as the runners gathered around before the start of Sunday’s race, this is what I said…

“In the first two verses of Psalm 61, David prayed the prayer, ‘Hear my cry, O God;… from the end of the earth I will cry to You, When my heart is overwhelmed; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.’

Let me tell you, if you were here yesterday for the 25k or 50k, this was undoubtedly a prayer that you prayed as well. I know I did. Many times in fact over the course of 31 miles I cried out to the Lord for help. Not only were the hills challenging but the massive amounts of mud from the rain made it very slippery to navigate at several points. 

And I imagine it will be that way today as well. Which means it’s a great time to remind you that on the course and in life, there’s nowhere you can go that God can’t hear your prayer and no predicament you can find yourself in that God can’t help you get out of… even those that make you feel as if you’re drowning under the weight of things, slipping out of control, or utterly and completely defeated. 

This was the emotional state David was in when he penned these words.  And even though David was a great king, he knew that there was a King higher than him. The King of kings and the only One who could come to his rescue. 

You see, David was at a point where he needed secure footing because his circumstances were out of his control and he was slipping into despair. Because of that, David knew he needed three things…

First. He needed the rock, a place of stability and security, something strong enough to stand against crashing waves or quaking earth and solid enough to gain a much needed foothold. 

Second. He needed a rock that is higher than I, a place above himself, above his wisdom, above his abilities.

And lastly…David needed God to lead him to that rock. David was unable to get to the firm-footed place above his crisis on his own in the same way that we all are. 

So friends… knowing that running in the mud and mire of the world will only leave you feeling overwhelmed and in danger of falling, choose to cling to the Rock that is higher than you today and then run with joy the race set before you.”

Heavenly Father, thank You for the opportunities you open up for believers to share the Good News and encourage others through the words and stories the Bible gives us. Lord, please help us to be bold in declaring that the only way out of the world’s muck and mire is clinging to the Rock, because without Jesus there is no hope for rescue, restoration or salvation. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Pride Leads to Shame

“When pride comes, then comes shame; But with the humble is wisdom.” Proverbs 11:2 NKJV

In a story titled “Influencer Disqualified From New York City Marathon After He Ran With Unauthorized E-Bikes Filming Him,” it was reported that 
Matthew Choi, a running influencer from Austin, Texas, who finished the New York City Marathon on November 3 in 2:57:15, has been disqualified from the event after he ran much of the course with two people alongside him riding on electric bicycles and filming his race. New York Road Runners, which organizes the marathon and dozens of other large races in the city, issued a statement on November 4 that read, in part, “After a review and due to violations of World Athletics rules, and New York Road Runners’ Code of Conduct and Rules of Competition, NYRR has disqualified Matt Choi from the 2024 TCS New York City Marathon and removed him from the results. He has been banned from any future NYRR races.” Choi, 29, “ran with the assistance of two unauthorized people riding the course on electric bicycles, obstructing runners,” the statement said… Choi, who has more than 465,000 followers on TikTok and 405,000 on Instagram, runs with no shirt and a backwards baseball cap. In a clip posted to the Instagram page for the Matt Choi show, he says, “I don’t even think running is my job. I am a creator first and then I run.”

And, you know, this attitude of ‘rules for thee but not for me’ is very typical of people who think more highly of themselves than they ought. But, eventually, if left unchecked, a person’s pride and need for praise from the world will lead to their shame, as they will do anything necessary to get likes, follows, comments, and fame —even breaking the rules when necessary. Sadly this is a trend, as Paul predicted, that would only increase as we near the end of the end times. 

So refuse to get caught up in how the world measures your worth my friend. Stay humble and seek the approval of God above man so you won’t be disqualified and experience the shame that comes from being exposed for breaking the rules. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that true wisdom begins with a humble heart that acknowledges You as Lord and Creator of all. Help us to seek your approval above all else so we won’t be disqualified after completing the race set before us. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

There’s Happiness in the Hardship

“It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes.” Psalm 119:71 ESV

"Well that certainly wasn't how I hoped it would go. But exactly how I expected it to.” Those were the words my friend Chris Hines posted after experiencing a DNF (Did Not Finish) at Sundays Bass Pro Marathon. Anxious to pace the 4 hour, 45 minute group, Chris stepped up to the start with some foot pain and hoped for the best. Unfortunately, the pain only increased and he made the wise decision to bow out of the race at mile nine. “The day wasn't a complete failure though,” he went on say. “After a quick shower and change, I headed back to the finish to cheer on the runners and see Carrie [his copacer] bring home the 4:45 group. That proved to be more rewarding than I expected. There's something about seeing people achieve hard things that I truly enjoy. You can almost tell when it's someone's first marathon as they approach that finish line by the look on their face. Joy, pain, accomplishment, disbelief. A memory they will always cherish.” 

And, you know, as this story clearly shows, things don’t always work out the way we would like them to. But, as believers, we can keep the joy when this happens by remembering that God is always working through our circumstances for our good (even when the circumstances themselves are not good). Many times it’s only in looking back, though, that we can see it. This was something the psalmist clearly understood when he said “It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes.” The affliction at the time I’m sure seemed to be heavier than the psalmist could bear and lasted longer than the psalmist thought he could hang on. But in the end, this wilderness season caused the psalmist to seek God in a way that he never had before or would have otherwise, and for that the psalmist was grateful. 

So no matter what you might be going through today, take heart my friend. God often uses suffering to grow our knowledge of his Word and his true character. And although our trials and afflictions might seem unbearable, they won’t last long in view of eternity. But what they produce in us will. And for that we must rejoice as we trust in and wait on God. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that trials serve a purpose that’s many times beyond what we can comprehend or understand this side of heaven. Lord, please help us to trust You as we endure them and to keep the joy so that others will see that trust and be inspired to follow the only One who can cause us to be happy in the midst of our hardship. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - The Benefits of Running in the Rain

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about Marathon Weekend. I don't know about you but I thoroughly enjoyed everything about it... especially the rain on race day. And I'm not the only one either (check out those smiles at the finish line in the photo above). I heard so many runners and walkers talking about how they didn't think they would enjoy running the race in the rain but had a better time running in it than they would have without the rain! Which is a good thing since the forecast calls for more rain this Saturday. So, if you're signed up to run the Dogwood Canyon 25k or 50k and you're a bit apprehensive, take heart. If thousands of other runners enjoyed the experience, you can bet that you will too. 

But hey, if you need a few more reasons to be coaxed into running in the rain, check out a few benefits of getting out in the precipitation:

Running in the rain could help you run faster.

Did you know that when temps are even just a couple of degrees warmer your performance can suffer? That’s because your body temperature rises as you run (hence the reason runners dress for temperatures 20 degrees higher than the actual temps). The warmer it is, the more you have to sweat to cool off. However, when the sky opens up, rain acts as a natural air conditioner to keep your body temperature down so you can keep your effort up. And you'll need all your effort to conquer the hills of Dogwood!

Running in the rain will help you deal with adversity.

While it may feel ideal to run on beautiful sunny days, challenging yourself to run in adverse conditions like rain will remind you that there are many things in life you can't control. Facing some of the things you can't control (like the weather) will help strengthen you to let go of things you don't need to hold onto or carry anymore and accept the things you can't walk away from but are powerless to change. This will help you to not only successfully complete workouts and reach your goals in races but also deal with adversity in the rest of life. After all, daily life is rarely a perfect, cloudless day or a leisurely stroll in the park.

Running in the rain helps to relieve stress.

Water is cleansing, and the sound of rain is relaxing. Combine running and rain and you get even more stress relief since running has been proven to fight depression and anxiety because of the release of those feel good chemicals called endorphins. Be sure to bask in the moment and count your blessings while you're out on the trail as well. This will further help you appreciate the experience and the inner peace nature brings. 

Running in the rain can boost your confidence.

Ever notice how the streets grows deserted during a rain shower?  Getting out there in adverse conditions will make you feel all the more gritty. And the sense of accomplishment you'll have when you're done will only add to your sense of self assurance that you're capable of doing much more than you give yourself credit for (in running and in life). 

You'll be labeled as hardcore!
People may call you crazy, or silly, or even blinded by dedication, but we know these are all just different ways of saying that you got out there and showed Mother Nature who's boss. While most people were cooped up inside waiting out the rain, you’ll be known as the one who defied the climate-controlled treadmill and tackled the hills of Dogwood. Own up to your high degree of awesomeness and embrace your new label of "hardcore"!

Now that you're thoroughly convinced that you can and should tackle the hills of Dogwood Canyon rain or shine, check out what to wear so you'll be prepared for the rain should the forecast not change. 

No running clothes are going to keep you completely dry in the rain, so you should expect to get wet. But the right gear will keep you more comfortable.

A running hat with a bill that extends out over your face.
A running hat with a bill will shield your eyes from the rain so you don’t have to constantly wipe water out of your face.

Synthetic, form-fitting clothing (including socks).
Don't wear cotton. Cotton T-shirts and socks act like sponges in the rain, soaking up water and sticking to your skin. Even in sunny weather, cotton doesn’t dry out as fast as synthetic fibers, and wet cotton can lead to chafing. Also, aa opposed to baggy clothing, form-fitting gear has less excess fabric to soak up water and cling to your body.

Anti-chafe balm
Try Squirrel’s Nut Butter or Body Glide to protect you from uncomfortable rubbing. I'm a huge fan of Gold Bond Friction Defense that can be found almost anywhere (Wal-Mart carries it) as well. 

A breathable, running-specific jacket (if it's chilly). 

Jackets that don’t breathe well might keep you dry from the rain, but they'll bottle up sweat and leave you feeling clammy. If it's warm, I’d suggest skipping the jacket and embracing getting wet. A jacket will simply make you feel hot and heavy, and getting wet will only make you feel more “hardcore”

The right shoes

This one is super important and always the top priority when it comes to running Dogwood. But it’s even more important when the ground is wet and muddy and lined with slick leaves. Trail shoes are a must at this event! My faves are the HOKA Challenger and the HOKA Speedgoat. No matter what shoe you choose though, make sure they have good traction to prevent or minimize slipping. On a side note, if you're participating in the Dogwood Challenge, it would be wise to have two pairs of trail shoes on hand to ensure you'll have a dry pair on Sunday. However, if two pairs are not in your budget, take off your wet shoes (and they'll be wet even if it doesn't rain because of the multiple water crossings) as soon as possible and remove the insoles. Then place them somewhere where they will dry quickly, like over a heater vent or out in the sun if we get a break from the rain. 

*HOKA is the Presenting Sponsor of the Dogwood Canyon 15k this year! So excited about that!!

And there you have it friends. We certainly can't change the weather but we can change our attitudes about the weather. And... we can wear the right gear! So rain or shine, I hope you're ready to join me at the start line of the greatest trail run there ever could be! You'll be so glad you did. Happy Running!

Challenges are Fantastic Ways to Grow Faith

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” James 1:2-3 NIV

In a story titled "Thousands participate in Bass Pro Shops marathon weekend" published by KY 3 News yesterday, it was reported that more than 3,000 people from across 40 states - and one from Switzerland - made their way to the Ozarks for Bass Pro’s marathon weekend. Sunday’s Conservation Marathon was a qualifier for the famous Boston Marathon in April, while other runners competed in a marathon relay or half marathon. The route took runners across many neighborhoods, several paved trails, part of historic Route 66, around Missouri State University, and downtown Springfield. “Today has really been a fantastic challenge with the rain and the weather, but all these people still managed to come out and show their perseverance to get the job done,” said Melissa Bondy, the director of Bass Pro Shop’s Fitness Series.

And, you know, while most people would never use the word ‘fantastic’ to describe a challenge (especially one as daunting as making sure 3,000 runners were kept safe), that’s actually a great word for believers to use. You see, the Bible tells us that followers of Jesus Christ can and should be joyful whenever they “face trials of many kinds” because these challenges test their faith in the same way a marathon tests or reveals their training (or lack thereof). A true believer will rise to the challenge and trust God’s faithfulness to work any and all situations for good and will be able to keep running the race. On the other hand, a person with little or no faith will likely throw their hands up in defeat and walk away. Furthermore, each time a person is witness to the faithfulness of God, their perseverance grows because their trust in Him grows stronger, allowing them to overcome bigger and bigger battles over time in the same way a runner progresses from the 5k to the 10k and then to the half marathon and then to the full marathon. Challenges give us opportunities to grow!

So consider it pure joy when (not if) you “face trials of many kinds” my friend. These fantastic challenges will not only serve to grow your faith but also have the potential to cause others to seek Christ by the faith you exhibit when you keep running the race with your eyes on Jesus, despite the troubles you will encounter along the way. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the challenges in life that give us opportunities to experience your goodness, mercy, grace, and faithfulness. Knowing that the lost are more inspired to seek You by the way we face our trials than when we have no troubles at all, help us to be joyful, faithful, and hopeful as we trust in and follow You until the very end. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.  

Happy Running!

A New Perspective Brings Joy

“LORD, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered— how fleeting my life is.” Psalm 39:4 NLT

As I sat down to prepare the devotion I would be blessed to give before Sunday’s Bass Pro Marathon and Half Marathon, my thoughts drifted to the weather forecast. As a seasoned runner, the predicted rain and wind were not alarming as I had battled these conditions many times. But for the first-time racers and many others, I recognized that this was a very big concern. And so I prayed, “Lord what would you have me say to them to calm their fears, lift their spirits, and encourage them to press on despite the conditions they might face” and this is what I was led to say…

“Good morning runners and walkers! It’s so great to be out here with you on this beautiful Sunday morning! Now if you’re saying, how can you say this is a beautiful morning with all the rain around us and more coming in later,  I hope you’ll choose to remember how blessed you are to have the strength and ability to run 13.1 or 26.2 miles regardless of the weather today or any other challenge you will face out on the course. Doing this will change your perspective so you can “run with joy” whether it’s raining or the sun is shining, and whether the wind is at your front or the wind is at your back. 

You see, whether you’re 18 or 80, there WILL come a day when you will no longer be able to run. This happens to everyone…  without exception. No one is guaranteed tomorrow, no one is guaranteed continued good health or freedom from injury, and no one escapes the aging process. 

This was something King David clearly understood when he prayed this prayer in Psalm 39:4…. LORD, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered— how fleeting my life is. David prayed this prayer because he wanted to fully understand just how short and unpredictable life was so that he could thoroughly grasp his limitations and how powerless man was to control the events of each day (including the weather). David wanted to be prompted by God to remember that he, like us, only had a certain amount of time on this earth to do all that he wanted to do…. and all that God was calling him to do. Being “reminded” of these immutable facts then was a priceless blessing to David because it caused him to appreciate and take full advantage of EVERY moment he had… something he could ONLY do because he understood what an undeserved gift each day was and how fleeting each day was. 

So no matter what today holds, and it may hold a lot of wind and rain, remember that your days are as numbered as King David’s were and that this day will pass by very quickly. For that reason make the most of it by getting out there and running with a smile on your face and joy in your heart, choosing to count your blessings and choosing to be thankful for the rain along the way…..  knowing that the rain and any other challenge you will encounter along the way will only serve to make reaching the finish line all the more sweeter and grabbing hold of your well deserved medal all the more meaningful.”

This was a message I wanted to share with you because no day will be free from problems my friend. I want to encourage you, as I did them, to face them all with a smile on your face and joy in your heart and to keep pressing on to the final finish line. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the lessons running teaches us about life. Help us to understand that the wind and rain will take many forms as we navigate our days, but if we will keep our eyes on You, we will be both joyful and victorious. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

We Should be Known for our Charity

“Then Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.’” Acts 3:6 NKJV

In a story titled, "Colin Farrell Finishes Marathon While Pushing Friend in Wheelchair" published earlier this week, it was reported that Award-winning actor and runner Colin Farrell finished the Dublin Marathon in 4:06:45 while pushing his friend in a wheelchair for the last 2.5 miles, according to The Irish Times. Farrell, 48, and Emma Fogarty, 40, have raised more than $690,000 for the charity Debra Ireland, which supports those like Fogarty living with a rare skin condition called epidermolysis bullosa. In a video on X from Saturday’s race, he asks her, “Shall we go again?” Farrell described Fogarty’s condition as more painful than running a marathon, explaining her body is “80 percent open wound,” while speaking with Seth Meyers last month… “I have known Emma for many years and she epitomizes bravery, she is what courage and pure determination are all about,” Farrell said in a statement after the race, according to the Irish Times. Epidermolysis bullosa, also known as butterfly skin, is an excruciating blistering condition of the skin, for which there is no cure. The life expectancy for severe cases is early infancy to about 35 years old. Fogarty just turned 40, and this marathon was a celebration of that milestone. Farrell is heavily involved with charity. Earlier this year, he founded the Colin Farrell Foundation in honor of his son, who has Angelman Syndrome, a neuro-genetic disorder.

And, you know, when it comes to charity, we would all do well to remember that believers are to be known for their uncommon love and generosity—and that the voluntary giving of help to someone in need that stems from that tremendous love isn’t always in the form of money. In fact, when Peter and John met a crippled beggar, rather than give the man coins, Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” In doing this, Peter showed that charity is giving to others out of the various resources that God has given us. Which means we can all be charitable givers!

So look for opportunities to use the time, talents, and treasures the Lord has blessed you with to show the love of Jesus to someone in need today my friend. After all, everything we have comes from God to be used for God

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that every one of us can and should be generous givers out of the resources You have blessed us with. Lord, please help us to see the opportunities around us to do good for your glory and to be found working hard at it. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

Pride is a Dangerous Thing

“When pride comes, then comes shame; But with the humble is wisdom.” Proverbs 11:2 NKJV

In a harrowing story published Monday that made global news Robert Schock, a 39-year-old ultrarunner,  reported that he set out on a 32-kilometer run in North Cascades National Park on July 31 clad with only his dog and a small backpack with limited supplies. Schock told Cascadia News that he was feeling adventurous that day and in search of stunning views, which prompted him to use a cable car suspended over the Chilliwack River to pull himself across to the opposite bank. But when he reached the other side, he became disoriented by the scenery, which had been altered by wildfires in recent years, and realized his phone had lost GPS service. “When I got out there, the trail was no longer there,” Schock told People. “I was curious to know what happened to this trail and my curiosity kind of kept me going.” On the second day, his phone died. But it wasn’t until the following day he realized he was hopelessly lost and began to worry. After being rescued nearly a month later just days from death, and having time to meditate on all that happened, Robert said “Many times I’ve placed myself in situations where I’d question if I’d ever make it back, and always did, usually through the aid of another who would come along and save me. I had a cocky attitude about it. This time was different. I knew, based on where I was, that the likelihood of help was almost zero. I was ready to die out there.”

And, you know, as this story shows, there’s nothing that can serve to strip a person of their pride or “cocky attitude” like a near death experience. Which is a good thing since unchecked pride eventually leads to spiritual death and disgrace. Hence the reason King Solomon, a man who ironically allowed his pride to override the wisdom God had given him said, “When pride comes, then comes shame; But with the humble is wisdom.” Because of the unchecked pride in his heart, Solomon acquired massive amounts of silver and gold and thousands of horses and chariots in direct defiance of God’s law—showing off all he had amassed to the Queen of Sheba. Solomons pride also led him to be disobedient in accumulating 700 pagan wives and 300 concubines, who eventually turned his heart away from God and led to his shame. 

So remember that pride is a dangerous thing my friend. It slips in slowly, silently, and sneakily and, if left unchecked, will lead a person to believe they are the captain of their own ship and maker of their own destiny—therefore having no need for God and no need to follow God. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that a prideful heart that takes its eyes off you can quickly cause us people to see themselves as self-made with no need for You. Furthermore, this attitude fails to acknowledge You as the Giver and Sustainer of all good things. In light of that, please help us to stay humble Lord that we might not reject the wisdom You have given us through the Word and through the Holy Spirit. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Tips to Get You to the Finish Line

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 day we've all been training for.... race day!!!! I don't know about you but I'm super excited that the Bass Pro Marathon Weekend is just around the corner!! And to help you make it to the finish line on Sunday, I've consulted the experts (better known as your Bass Pro Pacers) and asked them for some tips to increase your chances of joining the post race party. And this is what “the experts” had to say:

Trust your training and just enjoy the experience. - Charlie 

Start 20 to 30 seconds slower than race pace to warm up. Easy on the ups. Use gravity on the downs. Hydration early before you think you need it.... Finishing is winning - Erika

Have fun and smile!... it will help to keep your form relaxed and decrease the effort. - Melissa N. 

Enjoy what is on the course... the crowd, the aid stations, the fall beauty. - Janet

Remember that you don't HAVE to do this. You GET to do this. - Larry 

Simply breathe and trust your training, but if you didn't train, just go with it and enjoy!! - Fina

Have a good poo before you leave the house. - Adam Irvin

Now is the time to Shine

Training Miles🏃🏻‍♂️‍➡️🏃🏻‍♀️‍➡️ 

Summer Runs

Miles with Friends  

Goodnight Rest - Brad

For those doing Run-walk-run “May you Run-walk-run like the wind with me in the 5:45 group.” Also your main prep meal/s are two days prior on Friday and it is always important to start to hydrating starting 3 days before- David

Never trust a fart…especially during a marathon.- Chris

Have fun! - Kathy

Do a really easy half mile run before you line up so your legs are warmed up and ready. Or a nice stretch works too. - Randy

Just remember to have fun!! - Rachel

The only person who needs to believe in you, is you. - Kayla

Don't forget the body glide. Especially if the forecast bears out and we get rain. Wool socks are good for that too.- Lali

When it get tough, just run the mile you’re in. Don’t get overwhelmed by the distance to the finish. It’s a blessing to run, enjoy! - Jeff

And now on to my tips (I couldn’t narrow it down to just one)…

Address your nutritional and hydration needs before they address you and avoid going out too fast. This is the best way to keep yourself from hitting "the wall" physically. And then guard your joy at all costs! This is the best way to avoid hitting "the wall" mentally. After all a happy mind means happy legs. But... if you do hit a mental wall (and every runner will at one point or another), check out these tips for pulling yourself out of it:

• Focus on the crowds, the scenery (it will be beautiful!), putting one foot in front of the other. Listen to music, think about the parts of your body that do feel good – such as your arms – and give them a little shake out. 

• Positive self-talk and visualization play a huge part in any successful race strategy. Before the race begins, do some visualization exercises in which you do hit a mental wall and lose confidence – now picture yourself dealing with it effectively and overcoming it. Have a mantra that you repeat to yourself: something supportive like “I’ve got this”, “I am strong, I am capable”or “I can make it to the next mile".

• Remember why you're doing this and what group you'll be a part of once you cross the finish line. It's estimated that less than 1% of the global population has ever run a marathon or half marathon. That means whether you're running for charity, in memory of someone, or running for yourself, it's a phenomenal, lifetime achievement and will put you in the coveted 1% running club. You could also write down the reasons you're running or the names of the person or people you're running for and look at these when you need a boost to keep going. Write them on your arm or laminate them and keep them in your pocket, hydration vest, or fanny pack.

• Have an upbeat playlist ready. Music is a great motivator! Even if you don't normally listen to music on your runs, have this ready to go just in case. 

• Last but not least, if you can no longer run... walk. And keep walking all the way to the finish line. You'll be so glad you did!

And there you have it friends. It's time to put your training to the test, have some fun, score some cool bling, and make some new friends along the way. So get your bags packed and be ready to use some of these tips so you can join the party at the finish line! Happy Running!

Giving Up is Not an Option

“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:57 NKJV

In a story titled “Conquering the wall: A marathon runner's mental triumph” published yesterday, runner Vuyani Ndlovu said that his training for last Sunday’s Sanlam Cape Town Marathon was complicated by a medical procedure that forced him to take a break from training. “ This setback,” he said, “not only affected my physical fitness, but also shook my confidence. As I lined up at the starting line, I couldn't shake the anxiety about when I would hit the wall (a point where runners' bodies hit a breaking point, and many succumb to the urge to quit). The wall arrived around the 28-kilometre mark. My legs felt heavy, and the once exhilarating atmosphere turned into a monotonous slog. My mind, desperate for relief, suggested stopping. Yet, I knew that giving up was not an option. This was a mental battle as much as a physical one… The final kilometres were a blur of pain, determination, and relief. I crossed the finish line, exhausted but exhilarated. The marathon had been a gruelling test, but I had emerged victorious. 

And, you know, while “the wall” is a formidable opponent in the world of long distance running, believers face a greater opponent each and every day… an opponent that seeks not only to stop us but to utterly and completely destroy us. Furthermore this battle isn’t against a flesh and blood enemy but against the unseen devil and his evil forces in the heavenly realms. Which is the very reason we must be ready to face these diabolical attacks with the confident courage of knowing that ultimate victory will come “through our Lord Jesus Christ” if we don’t give up. We might come out of the battle exhausted, but we WILL emerge victorious if we keep our eyes on Jesus and keep fighting the good fight. 

So remember that the Christian life is not a sprint, or even a marathon my friend. It’s a lifelong ultra marathon that’s not for the faint of heart. There will be troubles, grueling tests, and “walls” along the way but God will give us the strength to push through each and every one. So hang in there until you reach that final finish line and see the Savior’s face. I promise you it will be worth it. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that You never said that the race set before us would be easy. In fact, You told us that it would take endurance, faith, hope, and determination to finish it. Help us to stay strong in the tests of life and to keep the faith Lord so that we might emerge victorious through your Son, Jesus Christ. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!