Never Let Up Until the Work is Done

“But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.’” 2 Chronicles 15:7 NIV

In a story published over the weekend titled “Yared Nuguse Breaks the Indoor Mile World Record,” it was reported that Yared Nuguse is now the proud owner of a world record, the first of his career. He ran 3:46.63 in the Wanamaker Mile at the Millrose Games in New York to break the indoor mark of 3:47.01 set by Yomif Kejelcha of Ethiopia five years ago... After winning the bronze medal in the 1500 meters at the Olympics in 2024, Nuguse said he has more confidence. He went straight to the front, tucked in behind the pacesetter for the first half, and ran quarter-mile splits of 57.38, 55.91, 56.95, and 56.41 to set the mark. “I’m not afraid of the front anymore,” he said. “I’m willing to go hurt by myself if I need to…” Nuguse was clearly hurting through the final laps of the race, with the discomfort showing on his usually calm face. “I knew if I let up anywhere, they were going to pass me,” he said of his competitors. “And so I kind of was just like, ‘Don’t let up, not for a second after the pacer falls off.’”

And, you know, when it comes to not ‘letting up’ until the race is complete, you and I would all do well to follow the example of King Asa, the third king of the southern kingdom of Judah who ruled for forty-one years and worked hard to remove the widespread idolatry that was in the land--coming up under many challenges and opposition in his effort to do so as you would expect. After a great victory, the prophet Azariah confronted King Asa and urged him to not "let up" until there was COMPLETE victory saying, "But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded." Asa responded to Azariah's encouraging words by continuing to purge the nation of idols, including his own mother's idol, demonstrating a commitment to fully devote himself to the Lord which resulted in a period of peace and prosperity for Judah. 

So, whatever it is that God is calling you to do today, be faithful, "be strong," and don't let up until you COMPLETELY finish the job my friend, even if you have to do it by yourself. Exposing, praying against, and removing the deeds of darkness in this world will never be easy but, when God is on your side, you can be confident that your work will be rewarded.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that, as believers, we have work to do each and every day. Lord, whatever it is that You have called us to do, help us to do it with all our might and with no fear of what man can do to us. Lord, help us to push back against the evil forces in the heavenly realms and to fight for truth and life, so that we will be known as Asa was… for doing what is good and right in your eyes. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Hold Firm to Your Faith

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding;” Proverbs 3:5 NKJV

“4 months seems like 4 years but still feels like yesterday. Not a day or hour or minute goes by that we don’t feel the grief and loss. Grief is such a painful thing. Friends have become strangers and strangers have become great friends. If I had to choose between having 18 years with him and then this tragedy, or never having had him I would choose the 18 years and a lifetime of sorrow every time. Because I am such a better person having had him in my life. We miss you Jr Bobby.” Those were the words posted by my dear friend Stephanie Zevallos on February 5, 2025. When her son, Junior, died unexpectedly on October 5, 2024 after completing the Frog Hill Half Marathon, many lives were changed, especially those of his family. But that’s the thing about loss and grief, it won’t allow a person to stay who they are. They will either draw closer to Jesus and become better (more like Him) or will turn away from Him and become bitter. Thankfully, Stephanie chose to trust Jesus (as her whole family did) and now takes great comfort in the knowledge that her precious son is with the Father. 

And, you know, while you and I will never even begin to ‘understand’ why things such as this happen, we can find solace knowing that God’s ways are much higher than our ways and his thoughts much higher than our thoughts. Which is the very reason, in the good times and in the bad times, we must “trust in the Lord” with our WHOLE hearts. You see, it’s only when we choose to hold firm to our faith that we will “lean not” on our own understanding but confidently cling to our belief that God’s plan is better than ours… no matter how it might appear. It’s this faith, such as Stephanie and her family continue to display, that allows a person to rejoice over what God has given them, rather than lament over what was lost, since they know this separation is only temporary. 

So, if you’re experiencing grief, sorrow, or sadness today, hold firm to your faith and take heart in knowing that your Heavenly Father sees, knows, and cares about what you’re going through my friend. So much so that He has promised to bind up your wounds as He heals your broken heart. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for being the God who works all things for the good of those who love You and are called according to your purpose. Help us to remember that Lord as we look forward to the fulfillment of that precious promise when our hearts are overcome with grief and we can’t see any good coming out of our situation. Father, please remind us that death is not the end for the believer but only the beginning of a whole new life with You. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Keep Your Mind on God

“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” Isaiah 26:3 ESV

In a story subtitled “After a mental health crisis, a former local athlete discovered the secret to finding peace amid the chaos,” the writer said, “Jesse Cody was a man at a crossroads. ‘There was a lot of insecurity, depression, really just kind of feeling like I was a failure in life,’ Cody remembered. ‘I was afraid to go into therapy. I was embarrassed and ashamed by the things I was going through. I really started thinking the best option for me was to take my own life.’ But after a moment of clarity at his 40th birthday party, Cody chose a different path -- quite literally. ‘I started reading about the story of the Appalachian Trail and, boy, that just struck me in the biggest way. Like a lightning bolt,’ he said. ‘Three months later, I headed down to Georgia with my life in a backpack, and I stepped on Springer Mountain, and I started walking.’ Twenty-two hundred miles later, Cody stepped off that trail in Maine and into a new life's mission.” That new mission was to start the organization Hike the Good Hike to help others find peace amid the chaos. 

And, you know, when it comes to chaos, one thing is certain… it’s a part of life that every person will experience. Fortunately for the believer though, we have the promise that God keeps the person “whose mind is stayed” on Him “in perfect peace.” Which means, the person who trusts God will experience chaos in a way that’s different from the world. The world will despair, fret or be afraid when mayhem strikes, but the person who trusts in the Lord will have a heart and mind that is perfectly still, serene, quiet, and free from all anxiety because they know that God is in COMPLETE control. And because God is in COMPLETE control (no matter how it may appear), the one whose mind is stayed or fixed on God will have a calmness of spirit that cannot be explained but only felt. 

So, if you’re at a crossroads today and in need of the perfect peace that only God can give, remove any sin or barrier that prevents you from keeping your mind focused on Him my friend. And then seek Him with your whole heart and rest in the blissful tranquility that only comes from a right relationship with the Father.

Heavenly Father, thank You for promising to give all those who keep their hearts and minds on You perfect peace. Lord, please help us to be steadfast in mind that we might never reach the point where we are at a crossroads. Help us to trust in You at all times and to keep our eyes, minds, and hearts on You. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Grab a Friend And Find a Challenge

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about challenges... something winter running is full of and something that has a lot of people's motivation waning this time of year. But since winter training produces spring PR's, let's discuss how committing yourself to a group challenge can be just what you need to put some pep back in your step. So a challenge that I really enjoy doing and have done for many years is Taji100. This is a free challenge (believe it or not, although you can purchase the swag) where teams (we are on the TEAM RWB Fort Leonard Wood Team) compete against one another and individuals within the teams push themselves harder than usual to complete 100 miles (and more) in the month of February to propel their team to the top of the ‘leaderboard’. The challenge stresses commitment, honor, and integrity while raising money for military veterans and promoting health and fitness. As you can see by the smiles on the faces of our Saturday run group (photo above) on February 1st, getting in those Taji miles is fun for all because a person can run or walk at their own pace (like our Saturday run group does).

And don't worry if you didn't start the challenge on February 1st. You can jump in today and still get in 100 miles (running, walking, hiking, cycling, swimming, rowing, or a combination of all of these activities) by the end of the month. If running/walking/hiking is your choice that means you could complete 4.2 miles every day until the end of the month and reach your goal. You can break that up into several workouts throughout each day as well or do more miles on one day and less on others. You’re in charge on this challenge!

So if this has you wondering what the allure of the challenge is and how it came about, this is what their website had to say… the first Taji 100 was held at former Camp Taji, in Al Taji, Iraq, in February of 2010. The once-thriving American military base was located in a rural region approximately 20 miles north of Baghdad. During the Saddam years, the camp was an Iraqi Republican Guard base central to the production of chemical weapons. Camp Taji was heavily bombed during Operation Desert Fox, and came under American control in 2003. Captain Carole DiPardo, 211th Military Police Battalion, created the friendly competition for her fellow troops in Camp Taji with a simple goal: Run 100 miles during the month of February. Although DiPardo originally established the challenge to promote cardiovascular health and fitness, the run was also instrumental in helping stationed U.S. service members relieve stress and boredom during what were often long and tedious deployments. With nearly 300 registered runners and walkers its first year, the inaugural Taji 100 was a huge success. And it has continued to grow!!! The idea of having something enjoyable to do in one of the coldest months of the year has been embraced by thousands of patriotic runners around the United States for more than a decade. That's what you get though when you combine free, fitness, friends, and fun. So join us! You'll have some miles to make up but it can be done! This is the last year the challenge will be held so make it the year you complete 100 miles in the month of February. 

 

If Taji isn't your thing though, there's a challenge out there with your name on it! Here’s one you might enjoy. Check out the OMRR runners in the photo above. Angie, Karen, Stephanie, Jill, and Jozie started the "5k a day" challenge on February 1st and plan to hold one another accountable on running a minimum of 3.1 miles a day every day until the end of the month. Smart right? These girls know that Bass Pro Marathon/half training will be here before they know it (begins in July) and they want to be ready!

If this is a challenge that has you saying, "I can do that one!' follow the example of these ladies who know that doing hard things with friends always seems easier than when you're doing it solo. And to make the challenge more appealing, plan to reward yourself with something special when it's completed. Like maybe a spa day with the girls, a night out with the guys, or dinner and a movie with your favorite person. On a side note, determining what that reward will be ahead of time will make you more apt to complete the challenge since you can envision receiving the reward when you're tempted to skip your workout or drop out before it's done. 

But if neither of these challenges interests you, find one that will send your motivation soaring! Here are some free and fun ideas that come to my mind:

1. Set out to complete a 30 day run streak. That's at least one mile for 30 days.

2. Aspire to complete a 5k, 10k, half marathon, and a full marathon in 30 days. Enlist your family and friends to be your cheering squad and reward yourself at the completion of each distance with the reward getting bigger and better with the longer miles. Perhaps even use the challenge to raise money for a local organization in need. Helping others is always a great motivator!

3. Run naked (without a watch) for 30 days and concentrate on the experience rather than the time. Journal your thoughts on this. 

4. Leave the headphones at home for 30 days and take in the sounds around you. If you can, run in quiet places where you're likely to hear less traffic noise and more sounds of nature. Pause to listen to a bubbling brook or to listen to the sounds of the wind rustling the leaves. 

5. Practice mindful gratitude on your runs for 30 days. Spend each run counting your blessings and looking for new ones. Journal your thoughts on this one too. I guarantee that you’ll come out of this time period amazed at the many things you are now thankful for that you took for granted. 

6. Create a race bucket list (that includes Bass Pro and/or Dogwood Canyon of course) and sign up for a few runs in the future. Getting skin in the game will motivate you to keep training through all weather conditions. 

And there you have it friends. A strong spring is earned in the winter as the saying goes. So find your challenge, make a resolution to see it through, and then let it motivate you to keep getting out there and logging those miles. You'll be so glad you did!

Happy Running!

God Keeps His Promises

“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you.” John 14:16-17 NLT

In a story published by CBS News Sunday, the writer said, “The Life Time Miami Marathon brought tens of thousands of runners from around the world this weekend and each participant had their own unique story to why they ran on Sunday.” One of those shared was that of Farouk Gomati who recovered from Guilin-Barre syndrome, a condition that causes sudden numbness and muscle weakness that can affect most of your body. It happens when your immune system attacks your nervous system. He spent months in the hospital and he was wheelchair-bound. "I had to re-learn how to walk, how to speak, how to breathe," Gomati said. He ran in the Miami Marathon for the first time, which was his goal after he recovered. "I was active but never a runner," Gomati said. "This is a promise I made to myself when I was in a wheelchair."

And, you know, when it comes to promises that have been kept, one of the greatest guarantees Jesus left with the disciples before He left them was that He would ask the Father and the Father would send anther Advocate that would never leave them. And not only would the Holy Spirit never leave them but would abide in them—a promise that God kept (as He does all His promises) and fulfilled at Pentecost. What a beautiful reminder that God doesn’t abandon us to navigate life on our own or to endure trials such as Gomati experienced alone. Instead, the Holy Spirit guides, comforts, and intercedes for every believer. 

So, if you are a believer and reaping the priceless benefits of this promise, rejoice my friend! God is with you and will never leave you nor forsake you. But if you are not a believer, won’t you choose to follow Jesus today so that you will never have to walk alone? I promise you that it will be the best decision that you will ever make.

Heavenly Father, thank You for having a tried and true track record of keeping Your promises. Throughout history, You have never failed to keep your promises and because of that, we know that You will continue to keep your promises. Thank you for the confidence that gives us both in this world and in the next. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Take the Time to Share Your Testimony

“At this stage of Paul’s defense, Festus exclaimed in a loud voice, “You are insane, Paul! Your great learning is driving you to madness!’” Acts 26:24 BSB

In a story titled “Hoka Has Unleashed Its Most Unhinged Shoe Yet: Meet the 'Speed Loafer'” published last week, the reporter said: God bless Hoka. The shoe company may have outdone itself with the introduction of its latest clomper—that must be seen to be believed—the Speed Loafer… The Speed Loafer is basically a cross between a leather dress loafer and a gritty trail shoe built for performance… When the sneaker-loafer was first pitched, “There was definitely a lot of excitement, but then also a lot of inquisitive frowns,” said Travis Wiseman, Hoka’s director of lifestyle product, in an interview with Highsnobiety. “That some people were uncomfortable and other people were super excited was a sign that we were headed in the right direction,” he continued, “but it definitely took some [time to] win folks over.”

And, you know, when it comes to being unhinged or mentally disturbed or unstable, the apostle Paul was called “insane” after giving a persuasive defense before King Agrippa II and the noblemen of Caesarea Maritima that detailed why he was being persecuted by the Jewish leaders, how he was converted to Christianity, and why Jesus was the Messiah. And while we aren’t told whether anyone that heard Paul’s plea came to accept Jesus as their Savior, we do know that Paul never missed an opportunity “to win folks over” no matter how crazy they might think he was. Paul was more concerned with winning souls than with winning the favor of man.

So, follow the example of Paul my friend and share your testimony at every opportunity. You might be called unhinged or crazy for doing so, but that’s okay! Take the ‘time to win folks over’ by telling them about who you were before encountering Jesus Christ and who you are now after accepting Him as your Savior. You may not win over everyone you meet but you will plant seeds that, God willing, will grow later.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that every believer has a story because every believer was once a sinner saved by grace and was once lost but now found. Help us to see every opportunity to share our testimony and then to be ready to follow it up with the Good News of the Gospel no matter how unhinged or crazy we might appear, counting ourselves blessed to be so set apart and bold. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

The Wise Listen to Advice

“The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.” Proverbs 12:15 NIV

In a story published earlier this week by the Duluth News, it was reported that Kristoffer Johnson won the Arrowhead 135 Ultra, crossing the finish line after 35 hours and 17 minutes of running while pulling his sled full of gear through the snowy terrain. Jonson, 41, of Seattle, won the "on foot" category of the notoriously difficult winter race, which is run almost exclusively on snowmobile trails and requires participants to haul a list of required survival gear… Jonson, who was born and raised in St. Louis Park, said he took eight hours off his finish time from last year. He credited that to advice from last year's winner, Alan Chapman, who told him to just wear the running shoes he's used to — not something special meant to help in snow.

And, you know, in the same way Johnson was wise to take the advice of someone with a proven track record rather than following his own way, you and I would do well to seek out good and godly advice from fellow believers who have a proven track record of studying the Word when we’re in need of guidance as well. You see, prudent people are aware that they don’t always know or understand what they should do… even after praying and extensively seeking answers from the Scriptures. It’s in those times then that seeking out the advice of a fellow trusted believer is a very wise idea as opposed to just doing what “seems right”… which usually ends in disaster. 

So, be humble in admitting that you don’t have all the answers my friend. And then accept the fact that there will be times when you must “listen to advice” from a trusted brother or sister who has a proven track record of giving good and godly counsel. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the Word that guides our path and leads us into all righteousness. Lord, when we still have questions or need clarity after reading the Word and praying for answers, help us to humbly seek out and listen to the advice of our fellow brothers and sisters knowing that as iron sharpens iron so a friend sharpens a friend. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Rejoice in Your Sufferings

“Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance,” Romans 5:3 ESV

If there’s one thing runners are careful to choose wisely it’s their shoes, since having the right pair is crucial to a runner’s success. Which made 27-year-old Dan Camac’s feat all the more impressive: Earlier this month, at the Cadbury Marathon in Tasmania, Australia, Dan set a new unofficial marathon record while wearing a pair of Crocs—becoming the first runner to break the two hour and 50-minute mark in the versatile foam shoe. Camac said his motivation came from scrolling through the Guinness World Records website. “I’m always looking for a new challenge, and I already owned a pair of Crocs,” he said. The previous record for a Crocs-wearing marathon was set by American software engineer Kevin Leimkuhler at the 2024 New York City Marathon. Leimkuhler ran a time of two hours and 51 minutes, leaving Camac with a tight margin in the final few kilometres. Heading into the race, Camac felt confident he could break the record, given his previous marathon best of 2:34 and his experience dealing with discomfort as an ultrarunner. “It sucked,” Camac said about running a marathon in Crocs. “I was fading at the end, but managed to hold on for the record.”

And, you know, long distance runners appreciate (and actually brag about) the ‘discomforts’ they experience because they know that enduring hardships increases their ability to handle increased suffering (which is crucial for success). In the same way, believers can and should “rejoice” in their sufferings as well, “knowing that suffering produces endurance.” And endurance is what allows a follower of Jesus Christ to tolerate the hardships of life. Endurance is what allows their faith to be tested and for them to come out approved. And the building of endurance, forged only by seasons of suffering, is what strengthens a believer bit by bit to be able to withstand the hardest of trials in the same way Paul did and come out declaring, “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”

 

So, while embracing discomfort goes contrary to what your flesh desires, rejoice in your sufferings my friend knowing that what God is producing in them will far outweigh the temporary distress you will experience on this earth. Don’t seek out trials or search out tribulation, but don’t despise them or lose hope either when (not if) they come your way. Trust in God’s love for you and hold fast to your faith at all times and in all circumstances. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that a life of ease never created a strong Christian. Help us to look at trials as training grounds and suffering as seasons of growth that we might embrace the things we must go through to gain perseverance. Help us to trust You in all things and for all things, never losing hope or doubting that You are working all things for our good and for your glory. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Hit the Trails While it is Warm-ish

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about this amazing weather we're having! With a high of 57 degrees expected in Springfield today, it's beginning to feel downright balmy. Especially when you compare it to the arctic storm we came out of that's still visible in the rear view mirror. And with temps similar to this expected for the extended KY3 forecast, now is a great time to get out on the trails to get some practice miles in for Dogwood. 

From L-R, Laura, Jackie, Gretchen, Heather

This was something I was thinking about as my husband and I joined some friends for a trail run on the Sac River Mountain Bike Trail on Saturday. As a lover of trails, I was anxious to see what three of the girls (pictured above with Laura who has run Dogwood many times) joining us thought about trail running since this was their first experience going off road. I knew that if they liked this run, they would love running the Dogwood Canyon Trail Run in the fall. And, of course, you know I already invited them! After all Dogwood is, hands down, my favorite trail run of all time. 

And just as I suspected this is what the girls had to say... 

For me, it was my first trail run and I loved it!! Of course we didn't run, we hiked it and I love hiking! I injured my back in May and Heather had knee surgery last year but we couldn't pass up a good cause! I love nature and you got to see it up close and personal. The frozen water crossings were beautiful and challenging! I loved being back out with my girls, talking, praising God and encouraging each other and everyone else! I saw this one and loved the fact that it was for the Missouri Baptist children's home and everyone we encountered was so kind and encouraging! The snacks were fantastic and served with joy! It was just a great time all around! While I was tired at the end and sore, I didn't really notice it too much on the course. It really was a perfect day with perfect weather and great company in God's beautiful outdoors, it just doesn't get much better! I prefer to do trails, I love being in the woods and exploring not on a road. I would love to try to do Dogwood this year and am working on strengthening my lower back. I'm trying to start back slowly with walking and strength training - Jackie

This was my second "official" trail race/run. Runs like this are a nice change of pace with less emphasis on how fast a person should go and more about pushing yourself through what challenges you. Sometimes it's the incline or maybe even the water crossing, or just doing things you didn't know you could. The weather was great once we got started, hiking through nature with some of my best friends. Pretty sure we plan to do it again next year and definitely plan on running Dogwood Canyon in the fall! - Gretchen

So this is my first trail race... loved the scenery and creeks. And yes, this race makes me want to run Dogwood Canyon in the fall! - Heather

I have run Dogwood before a few times, and I love Dogwood. This weekend race was great, not as great as Dogwood, with beautiful surroundings that made it a close second. I'm starting to love trail running over road running. Would love to run a trail when it's not cold though... lol maybe more in the spring to see everything come to life or in the fall as the seasons start to change. - Laura

So, while I'll agree with Laura that running trails when it's cold isn't always the most fun, but spring temps are still a long ways off. Which means that this is a great week to grab those trail shoes and head out to a trail that's close to you. Or... if you're feeling adventurous, check out TrailLink for a listing of all the Missouri trails there are to visit and seek out a place you've never been before. My husband and I had never been on the Sac River trail and loved it so much that we plan on coming back to do some more exploring. We had no idea such a beautiful trail was only a 75-minute drive from our house. 

And there you have it friends. There's no better time to get out on the trails than right now. After all, there may be another winter storm on the horizon, just outside of the extended forecast, that could drop another round of ice on us that could render the trails impassable for a while—a thought that makes me sad. So get out there with a smile on your face for a hike, run, or walk while you can friends. Nature is medicine for the soul and you'll never regret spending time in it. 

Happy Running!

The Wicked are on Slippery Ground

“But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold. For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.” Psalm. 73:2-3 NIV

In a story published last week following the unprecedented winter storm that blanketed the southern part of our country with snow and ice, it was reported that several people were frustrated that the Charleston Half Marathon was cancelled last Saturday because of the conditions of the route. Runners Elisabeth Wiebe and Hannah Smith were two of the runners affected by the cancellation leading Wiebe to day, “Yeah, we’ve been training for a while. Like I live here, and Hannah lives in Memphis, but we’ve been training for a long time and wanted to do it together. So it was a little upsetting, but obviously with the snow and everything it’s better to be safe, so we understand.” Despite the road condition warnings though, Smith and Wiebe ran the route on race day with some other runners and said, “We almost fell…there was black ice and I didn’t see it.”

And, you know, when it comes to almost falling because of things we ‘didn’t see’, the psalmist said that his feet “had almost slipped” when he “envied the arrogant” and “saw the prosperity of the wicked.” The psalmist further expressed his struggle  (Psalm 73) with being jealous of the prosperity of those who chose not to follow God because they appeared to have no financial struggles and looked as though they were free from common human burdens and ills. The inequity he viewed in the world nearly tempted the psalmist to follow their ways until he reminded himself that those who chased after the world were far from the Lord. Which meant that any wealth and good health they enjoyed in this world was only temporary… especially when they were compared to the eternal riches God gives all those who remain faithful and desire nothing but Him. 

So, remember that keeping your heart pure is never done in vain my friend. It may appear at times that the wicked are prospering and have no problems, but you can be sure that’s only the way it ‘appears.’ The wicked never truly prosper in this world or the next because they have no real peace and never have true contentment the way a believer does. Which means the wicked will eventually slip and lose their foothold… but those who trust in Christ will never fall because they have their feet on solid ground. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that no matter how it may appear, only the righteous truly prosper in this world since riches and recognition can never fill the void that You were designed to fill. Lord, help us to find our sole contentment in You so we won’t slip on the world’s black ice. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Believers Should Model Set Apartness

“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

Although I struggle with running technical trails (and I use the term “running” loosely here since what I do on this type of terrain could better be defined as plodding), I had the best time on Saturday at the Bleak Midwinter Endurance Run presented by the Missouri Baptist Children’s Home (MBCH). From the moment my husband and I arrived at the start line, I could sense there was something different about this race and the people putting it on. As I then interacted with the MBCH volunteers, the timing company, and the pastor (all believers) throughout the morning, the love they had for one another and showed to the racers and to us (as runners and also as a part of Runner’s Church Ministries that exists to “bring church to wherever runners run”) was evident as to why my spirit sensed the difference. This was a feeling my husband confirmed a few hours later as we ran loop four of the 4.25 mile course together. “This is such a unique and awesome race,” he said out of the blue as we made our way through the woods. “You can just feel the love here. The aid station food was planned with extra care and the workers were so happy to help everyone and make them feel welcome. And the pastor even came out on the trail and took the time to thank us for supporting the race.” “Oh honey I so agree,” came my reply. “You can definitely feel the difference when a race is put on by believers.” And then I added, “We are definitely coming back next year!” But isn’t that the way it’s supposed to be? After all, as believers, we are called to be so set apart that people (even nonbelievers) sense that we’re different, even if they don’t understand why. 

And, you know, it’s this set-apartness that Jesus commands us, as His followers, to model to the world saying, “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.” You see, the command to love our neighbor as ourselves wasn’t a new command. But the kind of love Jesus displayed to the disciples for us to model was a new command for how we are to love those in ‘the family.’ Spurgeon explains it this way, “We are to love our neighbor as ourselves, but we are to love our fellow-Christians as Christ loved us, and that is far more than we love ourselves.” This unique and self- sacrificial love, empowered only by the Holy Spirit, bears witness to our faith, points others to Christ, and compels the lost to join ‘the family.’

So, knowing that the love we show for ‘the family’ sets us apart like nothing else can, let us do all we can to love our brothers and sisters as Jesus loved us my friend. And then, let the love we have for one another give us the oneness of heart, mind, and purpose to serve Him in ways that lead the lost to the foot of the cross. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for sending your Son Jesus Christ to display the greatest love this world has ever known. Help us to love our brothers and sisters in the same way and to love our neighbors as ourselves that we might impact a world in desperate need of the saving grace that only Jesus can provide. Help us to work together to fill needs in our communities and to battle the evil in our world Lord. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Finish the Race and Keep the Faith

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:7-8 NKJV

Upon hearing the news of a dear friend’s death after a 14-month battle with Glioblastoma early yesterday morning, I couldn’t help but cry tears of sadness mixed with joy… sadness over her passing but joy knowing that Janet was no longer suffering and was finally in the place her heart longed to be. So, as I set out on my daily run with my husband by my side, my heart was refreshed as dusk turned to dawn and the sun finally began to make its appearance. Spreading from one side of the horizon to the other, the magnificent colors of the rising sun began to show themselves as a masterpiece of God’s making. Slowing down to take it all in, I turned to my husband and said, “What a beautiful morning for Janet to make the journey home.” To which he replied, “Indeed. But consider this honey… what we’re seeing right now pales in comparison to what Janet is seeing. Can you just imagine how in awe of heaven she must be in right now?” As I went on to run a few more miles, I smiled knowing that Janet’s race was now over. As she fought against the disease that eventually took her life, Janet never let cancer take her joy and she never took her eyes off Jesus. “Oh sweet Janet,” I thought to myself as I listened to the sound of the wind and the birds singing out on the trail as I prayed for her family. “You may be gone from this earth but the unwavering faith you displayed as you ran your hardest mile will no doubt be remembered by all those who were blessed and encouraged by witnessing it, quite probably causing at least one person to seek the One who filled you with such happiness in the midst of heartache.”

And, you know, throughout Paul’s ministry, he often used the picture of a Christian athlete running a spiritual race to (Philippians 3:12-14, Acts 20:24, 1 Corinthians 9:24, Hebrews 12:1) teach us what it means to press on in the midst of trials, troubles, problems, and pain in a way that we might gain “the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge,” Paul said “will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.” And Paul not only encouraged us to run the race in such a way that we might gain the prize ourselves, but that we might display the faith that inspires others to continue running the race as well, in the same way Janet did. You see, it’s one thing to fight the good fight when the race is easy and you’re standing on the podium, but it’s a whole nother thing to continue fighting and keep the faith when the battle is all uphill with little chance of success. But these are the times that we have the highest chance of influencing a lost world to seek Jesus! And when we must, by our unwavering faith in Christ, keep running the race and declaring, “I know that my God is faithful… and I know that I will soon take hold of the crown waiting for me and I will finally see my Savior’s face.” This is the steadfast confidence in God’s promises that causes the lost to look up my friend. 

So, no matter what you’re going through today, don’t let your heart be troubled. Remember that Jesus is preparing a place for all those, like Janet, who faithfully keep their eyes on Him and keep on running until they finish their race and break the tape. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the blessed assurance every believer has that in your house are many mansions that are being prepared for the saints. Lord, help us to keep our eyes on You as we journey through this life so that we can fight the good fight, finish the race, keep the faith, and grab hold of the prize… never wasting even one moment to lead the lost to You by unwaveringly and joyfully trusting in your plan even if we don’t always understand it. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Strive to Be an Ultra PRAYer

“In these days he went out to the mountain to pray, and all night he continued in prayer to God.” Luke 6:12 ESV 

In an inspiring story published yesterday by Minnesota News, it was reported that Michael Koppy, 74, is aiming to become the oldest runner to ever complete the Arrowhead Ultra 135, a grueling race across northern Minnesota. Like many other ultrarunners that I know (including myself), who have grown accustomed to running through the night, Michael’s draw to the sport of ultrarunning was a healthy way to deal with the pressure, pain and stresses of life. Polio killed his mom and brother when he was just two years old. He also contracted the disease and wore braces on his legs for a year. Growing up he was in and out of foster homes. Discovering running, he said, kept him out of trouble, and helped put him on the right track… “Running is what makes life really possible for me,” he explained. “We all have a lot of stresses that we have to deal with. All those complications fall away when you're out there running. It's just very simple.”

And, you know, when it comes to dealing with the stresses of life, Jesus, Himself, gave us the example to follow. You see, although Jesus was known as a man of constant prayer, there were times in His life (like before choosing the twelve among the disciples who would become His apostles) when He needed extra prayer. That’s when He would go to a secluded place and devote hours upon hours (all night He continued) in prayer to God (modeling what it means to be an ultra PRAYer) to seek the guidance, wisdom, peace, encouragement, and enlightenment that only God could give Him. The importance of prayer is emphasized even more when we consider that Jesus, who was God in human flesh, didn’t simply use His infinite knowledge to pick the apostles but prayed all night to the Father instead, relying on the power of the Holy Spirit just as we must.

So strive to be known as an ultra PRAYer my friend. Seek to rise above the stresses and circumstances of life by praying for the same guidance, wisdom, peace, encouragement, and enlightenment that God rewards all those who seek Him with their whole hearts. It certainly won’t be easy, but it will be worth it - because, as Spurgeon once said “One night alone in prayer might make us new men, changed from poverty of soul to spiritual wealth, from trembling to triumphing.”

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that there is infinite power in prayer. Whether it’s dealing with the stresses of life, needing clarity and guidance for important matters, or needing to feel your peace and presence when our hearts are hurting or broken, help us to be ultra PRAYers who don’t stop until we receive the answers and comfort we are praying for. Help us to honor You with our prayer life Lord. And to seek You with our whole hearts. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Run for Your Mental Health

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about a few things the month of January is known for... frigid temps, ice and snow, and the month where people are most likely to try and adopt new habits that will lead to better health in the new year. With that being said, a person's "why" they are doing something good for themselves  - in this case, getting out the door to run - must be a very good one in order to motivate themselves to brave the winter winds and the cold.

With that being said, many people don't know that January is also Mental Health Awareness Month and that running checks off many of the blocks on the National Institute of Health's Emotional Wellness Checklist - such as developing healthy physical habits and taking time for yourself each day to build resilience, exercising regularly and building a social support network to reduce stress, and exercising regularly to get quality sleep among many other benefits. So, as you can guess then, adding to your reasons of "why" it's important to get out the door regularly even when it's cold is "to strengthen my mental health" will benefit you in more ways than one. Additionally, when you run, endorphins and serotonin are released in your body -- chemicals that may improve mood. Studies show regular running (especially outside as opposed to inside) at a moderate or vigorous pace can improve your mental happiness and even your memory and ability to learn.

*On a side note, I would highly urge you to download the Wellness Checklist and do what you can to check off all the boxes. This is a great tool from the NIH. 

In fact, in a 2023 study titled, "Antidepressants or running therapy: Comparing effects on mental and physical health in patients with depression and anxiety disorders," the conclusion upon studying 141 participants was this: While the interventions had comparable effects on mental health, running therapy outperformed antidepressants on physical health, due to both larger improvements in the running therapy group as well as larger deterioration in the antidepressant group. And improved physical health keeps mental health in check. 

 

On that note, in an article published by Runner's World in 2024 on the benefits of running for your mental health, the author said "Running Is a Great Tool for Treating Mental Disorders," before going on to say the following:

More than 50 million American adults experience mental illness, with half of them not receiving any treatment. As we mentioned, running can be part of your plan because it helps trigger the release of endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin. These feel-good chemicals are often depleted by mental disorders.

“We lose nerve cells, and exercise helps repopulate them and make them tougher, make them stronger so they can withstand the stresses of everyday life,” said John Ratey, an associate clinical professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.

Antidepressant drugs are based on helping fire neurotransmitters in your brain and increase their concentration as soon as you start taking them, Ratey said. But as explained above, the same can be achieved by incorporating running into your routine. In a 2023 study published by the Journal of Affective Disorders, more than 100 people with depression or anxiety were offered the option to take antidepressants or join a running program for 16 weeks. The study concluded that running worked just as well as the medication.

“Now, I would always encourage people to seek medical advice from a medical professional, it’s really important to make sure that you’re targeting your mental illness from all avenues,” said Lennie Waite, a certified mental performance consultant and Olympian. “But running is a great supplement to whatever else you’re doing to benefit your mental health.”

Running can support a range of mental disorders, including anxiety, the most common mental illness in the U.S., and depression, the leading disability in ages 15-44. But the benefits don’t stop there. Post-traumatic stress disorder is another one, which Runner’s World covered in detail in this article. And runners have been using the sport to manage other mental health conditions as well, including bipolar disorder, ADHD, the risk of dementia, or, for example, OCD.

And, there you have it friends. If improved mental health isn't one of your "why" reasons you make the choice to remain consistent this winter, it really should be. After all, mental health has a direct bearing on your physical health, spiritual health, emotional health, and social health. Which means improving one naturally improves the others. So, in the spirit of January, use this month to assess additional ways you can improve your mental health, making consistent running one of your priorities. You'll be so glad you did! Happy Running!

Almost Christians Will Forfeit the Prize

“Then Agrippa said to Paul, “You almost persuade me to become a Christian.’” Acts 26:28 NKJV

Conner Mantz made history Sunday by besting an American running record that had stood for 18 years. The former BYU runner finished the Houston Half Marathon in 59:17, 26 seconds faster than Ryan Hall’s 59:43 from 2007. With his performance, Mantz further cemented himself as one of the best distance runners in the world right now. He’s just the fourth American in history to break the 60-minute barrier in a half-marathon, and he’s the first to do it in nearly seven years, according to Citius Magazine. Although Mantz shattered the American record — and improved his own personal best in the half-marathon by more than a minute — he just missed out on winning the race. It was a photo finish after a final sprint, and race officials gave the win to Addisu Gobena of Ethiopia, determining that he’d edged out Mantz by 0.01 seconds.

And you know, as this story shows, missing the mark by even a centisecond means “almost” winning the race but forfeiting the grand prize. In the same way, a person who “almost” accepts Jesus as their Savior (the person who has a head knowledge of who Jesus is, and who might even appear to be a follower, but doesn’t give up his or her complete life to follow Him) will “almost” grasp the prize of eternal life upon reaching the finish line but will hear the words “I never knew you. Depart from me” instead. You see, “almost” being a Christian means that a person almost has eternal life and will almost be delivered from the judgment of hell; but almost isn’t enough. Far from being admired for how far he did come, King Agrippa condemned himself even more by admitting how close he had come to the gospel and how clearly he has understood it, while still rejecting it. Sadly, King Agrippa was estimated to be about 33 years old when he heard the words of Paul, who gave a clear defense for the reason he trusted in Jesus and why everyone else should do so as well, since the evidence that Jesus was the Messiah and the Son of God he shared could not be refuted nor disproven. After his refusal to accept Jesus as his Savior, Agrippa then died at the age of 73, having traded 40 years of worldly living only to die and spend eternity in hell. In other words, Agrippa traded 40 years for an eternity in heaven.

So, don’t be an “almost” Christian my friend. Jesus was very clear that whoever is not completely with Him is totally against Him. Which means that by making the decision to “almost” follow Jesus is making the decision to not follow Him at all.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that those who choose to follow the world like King Agrippa did will forfeit the prize of eternal life. Lord, help us to understand that this life is short and eternity is forever so we would see the futility of taking hold of the world rather than taking hold of Jesus. In addition, Lord, help us to see that nothing that we gain here can be taken into eternity. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

We are Commanded to Pray

“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” Romans 13:1 NLT

Like many other Christian runners around our country today who are blessed to have the day off, I will sit down for my morning Bible study before setting off on a long run to meditate on the Word and earnestly pray for our country, our leaders, and a peaceful transition of power from the old presidential administration to the new one. And just as with the sport of running that people either love or hate (there seems to be very little middle ground), many people (like myself) will be feeling happy, joyful and hopeful over the change while many others will be feeling cynical, sad, and discouraged. But wherever you might be on that spectrum of feeling, the Bible is very clear about what a Christian’s responsibility is when it comes to those in command... submit and pray. 

You see, since we know that “there is no authority except that which God has established” and “the authorities that exist have been established by God” and not by man, we are to subject ourselves to governing authorities because they are appointed by the Lord and serve a purpose in His plan (not ours). To do otherwise is to literally kick against the goad (which is to battle with God to no avail, only hurting yourself). Since governments, then, have authority from God, believers are bound to obey them - unless, of course, they order us to do something in contradiction to God’s law. Then, we are commanded to obey God before man (as in Acts 4:19). 

So, rather than grumbling about who’s leading our country today, pray for those in authority instead as we are commanded to do my friend — knowing that the fervent, effectual prayers of a righteous person have great power in causing those in authority to make good and godly decisions. Decisions that, you can be sure, will benefit our families, our schools, our businesses, our cities, our towns, our counties, our states, and our country as a whole. 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that You are the One who controls the times and the seasons and that You are the One who puts leaders into place and the One who takes them out. Lord, we pray for our country today and we pray for those in authority. Please guide our senators and representatives — our local, state and national leaders. Lord, we pray for all leaders to have Your wisdom in all matters. We pray for our president to have discernment, to have the energy to do this difficult job and to be a person who seeks Your will, not only in his life, but in all national matters. God, please surround our president with good and godly counsel that will lead him to walk and rule in a way that honors You. Lord, God, please heal our land from the chaos and division within it, and please help every leader to seek Your face. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Husbands Love Your Wives

“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her” Ephesians 5:25 BSB

In a heartwarming story titled "This Bride Challenged Her Guests to a Wedding Day 5K—and Ran 18:34" published by Runner's World on Wednesday, it was reported that Liv Paxton-Sprankle hosted a (completely optional) Beat the Bride 5K the morning of her wedding on January 3rd. Surprisingly, 26 of her friends (including her mother and the groom who is not a runner but trained for the event because of his love for his bride) took part in the challenge with a few of the guests even claiming PR's. The groom trained for the occasion, and had trouble sleeping the night before because he was nervous about the race. He finished in 30:57, just missing his competition, mother-in-law Wendy Paxton, who’d gone into the 5K with a goal of beating the groom, since the bride was in a league of her own. Paxton-Sprankle waited at the finish line to congratulate Jacob, as he ran into her arms, wearing a tuxedo t-shirt... “It was a wonderful start to the wedding day,” she said in a post-wedding TikTok. “It was literally the best day ever.” Now that's my kind of wedding! 

And, you know, the same sacrificial love Jacob showed for Liv that compelled him to train for ‘the occasion’ is the same sacrificial agape love that Paul was referring to when he wrote, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her.” This type of love that a husband is to have for his beloved is the same atoning love that compelled Jesus to die for the unworthy and those who didn’t love Him back. You see, while eros love is an important part of a healthy, God-honoring marriage, a divine, giving, absorbing, love that displays itself in self-denial for the sake of another is equally important. It’s a love that never changes and is given without demanding or expecting re-payment. It’s a love so great that it can be given to the unlovable or unappealing, and it’s a love that loves even when it is rejected. It gives because it loves, it does not love in order to receive. Is that an amazing description of Gods great love for us or what? 

So, husbands love your wives “just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her.” It may not be easy at all times, but it will be well worth it in the end. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that, although eros love is an important part of a healthy marriage, agape love is even more important. Help us to love and respect our spouses as You have called us to do Lord, and help us to be spouses who are easy to love and are willing to put the needs of our spouses above our own. It’s in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

Tough Christians Trust God

“I keep my eyes always on the LORD. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” Psalm 16:8 NKJV

In a story of dogged determination titled “Four months after injuring legs in crash, runner gears for Mumbai Marathon,” published yesterday, runner Subhash Motwani detailed what happened on the day of the crash and the injuries he suffered that led him to give up running for several months. At the end of what has been a very rough three months, the doughty, determined Motwani summed up, "I believe in the adage: Tough times don't last but tough people do'. In just over three months after the accident, I was back on my feet, training for the Mumbai Half Marathon. I am at my 90 per cent fitness level, as my wrist is on its way to recovery. I am also a bit heavier physically, as I can do limited exercises and had limited training too." Sunday will be a showpiece for an inspiring comeback, proving that the enduring allure of distance races - like a marathon, goes much beyond timings, the finish line or a race. They are a window to the human spirit that shines as bright as the Mumbai sun which will climb high into the sky as dawn breaks on Sunday.

And, you know, when it comes to becoming tough people who can overcome tough times each and every time, you and I would do well to follow the example of David who was able to endure tests and trials that would overwhelm the majority of people, especially nonbelievers. Why? Because David kept his eyes on the Lord ALWAYS and trusted Him with his whole heart. Doing this is what gave David the complete confidence that he could and would overcome any problem, hardship and difficulty in his way and spurred him to say, “With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” David knew that he could do nothing without God. But, with God, he could do anything because he was relying on God’s strength (rather than his own) and following God’s will (rather than his own). 

So, if you want to be one of those tough people who can repeatedly get knocked down and get back up again, give your life fully to the Lord my friend. Allow Him to guide you, to counsel you, and to strengthen you so that you, like David, will never be shaken. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that when we are weak, You are strong. Help us to fully surrender our lives to you Lord so that we would not try to get through this world on our own but would allow You to direct our steps, renew our minds, strengthen our resolve to press on, and give us peace in the midst of peril. Father, please fill our hearts with the knowledge that we are nothing without You and can do nothing apart from You. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!