Seek the Expert for Heart Health

"The Law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is trustworthy, making wise the simple." Psalm 19:7 BSB

In a bittersweet story published by indy100 yesterday, it was reported that Alasdair Iain Elder, 28, is making final preparations for running the 155-mile Hebridean Way from the island of Vatersay to Stornoway on Lewis.

He is undertaking the challenge to raise money for the charity Lucky2BHere, which provides defibrillators and delivers emergency life support training to communities throughout Scotland.

He is running in memory of his father Donald, who died of a cardiac arrest at the family home on the Isle of Barra in 2024.

Cardiac arrest is the abrupt, unexpected loss of heart function, breathing, and consciousness. It occurs when the heart’s electrical system malfunctions, causing the heart to stop beating effectively or completely. Without immediate treatment, it is fatal within minutes.

Hence the reason defibrillators are so crucial. A defibrillator aids in cardiac arrest by delivering a targeted electrical shock to the heart, briefly stopping all electrical activity. This momentary pause "stuns" the heart, allowing its natural pacemaker to reset and resume a normal, life-sustaining pumping rhythm.

And, you know, our physical hearts are not the only thing that can be in danger of malfunctioning. When we take our eyes off the Lord, our spiritual hearts can get out of rhythm to the detriment of our spiritual health. 

You see, when you and I get away from the perfect law of the Lord, our souls can become weary and weak because of the sin that comes into our lives. Thankfully though, the perfect law of the Lord works as a spiritual defibrillator by providing targeted shocks to the heart in the form of the therapeutic power of the Word of God. When we read it, meditate on it, and commit it to memory, it revives our hearts and our souls in a way that nothing else can--allowing us to reset (aka repent) and resume a normal, life-sustaining pumping rhythm. 

“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalm 139:23-24

Sadly though, there are millions of Christians today who are near spiritual cardiac arrest and are totally unaware or their dire and urgent situation. This is the very reason that we would all do well to have frequent cardiac "checkups" to ensure that we never get to this point.  This is something we do by going to the Lord regularly and praying, "Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."

In this way, we can allow the Great Physician to examine our hearts and point out the things that might be damaging our walk with Him. The best part? This examination doesn't come with a  price tag but, instead, comes with Expert advice on how to "fix" the problem so we can avoid the unexpected loss of our spiritual heart function. 

"For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come." 1 Timothy 4:8 NIV

So, seek the Lord and seek Him diligently my friend, knowing that our spiritual heart health is built and maintained in the same way our physical heart health is... by training daily in the Word which holds promise for both the present life and the life to come. 

Heavenly Father thank You for reminding us that we must take our heart health seriously. Lord, help us to seek You at all times that we might not let our hearts be led astray and get off the path that leads to life everlasting. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Where You Step Matters

“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” Romans 3:23 NKJV

In a story titled “Alabama runner disqualified after winning national championship” published over the weekend, it was reported that Doris Lemngole won her sixth national championship.

Or so everyone thought.

The Alabama runner initially was ruled the winner of the 5000 meter race during the NCAA Division I outdoor track and field championships on Saturday in Eugene, Oregon. But Lemngole was later removed from the final listing of the times in a revised list.

Instead, Marion Jepngetich of New Mexico was named the national champion.

Lemngole completed the race in 15:11.71, and Jepngetich finished at 15:13.01. But Lemngole was disqualified for a lane violation, Flo Trak reported. Alabama challenged the ruling, but the disqualification was upheld.

“Doris Lemngole was ultimately DQ’ed for taking too many steps over the inside line, under rule R: 15.5-3g,” UA wrote on social media.

“I have nothing to say right now,” Lemngole said after the disqualification. “It is what it is. I’m proud of myself, I’m proud of my school and my career. That’s it.”

And, you know, while it might seem like a small thing to be disqualified over a few steps, the reality of the matter is this… rules are rules and there are consequences to breaking them, whether by one step or one million. And there’s nothing we can say about it. 

And the same can be said about our spiritual race, as Paul made clear when he declared that “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” That means there’s not one living person who is able to run the race of life without “taking too many steps over the inside line” of perfection.

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23

You can be sure that the consequences of our sin, or the breaking of God’s rules by even one step not only disqualifies us from heaven but is punishable by death. 

Thankfully, though, when we choose to trust in Jesus Christ as our Savior, we are not only spared the death sentence we deserve but actually receive the gift of God—which is eternal life. This is the amazing gift Jesus died on the cross to give us… and it’s free! Is that amazing or what??

“Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.” Romans 12:1 BSB

“On account of God’s great mercy” to us then, let each one of us offer up our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, knowing this our spiritual service of worship.” In other words, knowing that there’s nothing we could ever do to pay back or earn the greatest gift ever given to mankind, we should surrender our entire everyday lives—our bodies, our time, and our desires—to His will and live on fire for Him each and every day.

So, seek to be holy as God is holy my friend. Knowing that we will ultimately fall short is no excuse for not giving our best to the Lord and striving for perfection. After all, God is honored in excellence and by us putting forth our very best effort every minute of every day, and with every step we take.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of salvation. Help us to understand that we would be destined for hell without it so that we would live in appreciation of it. Lord, compel us to love You and serve You with our whole hearts holding nothing back in the same way that You held nothing back from us… even sending Your one and only Son to die on a cross for our sins. It’s in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATON - Tis the Season to Sweat

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog

Now let's get started by talking about what's happening this weekend. Summer is officially making it's debut on Sunday. And while there's no exact statistic for the percentage of runners who claim summer as their favorite season, I can tell you that it's certainly not mine for a variety of reasons. I am definitely a spring and fall lover! But here's the deal... I love running, so I'll embrace the suck and run anyway. And you should too. After all, fall finishes come from summer gains. 

With that being said, there are a few mental shifts we can make now to help the transition a little bit easier. But the good news is that our bodies were designed to adapt. But the bad new is that our bodies don't adapt over night. Acclimation is a process that nobody, and I mean nobody, gets to opt out of if they want to keep running in the heat and humidity that Missouri is known for. 

So let's take a look at some key principles of heat adaptation:

Your Body Needs Time

When temperatures rise, your body has to work much harder to keep itself cool. Every run becomes a little more demanding because your cardiovascular system is trying to do two jobs at once:

Deliver oxygen to your muscles.

Send blood to your skin to cool your body.

That's why your heart rate climbs faster and your usual pace suddenly feels difficult.

The Summer Adaptation Timeline

Days 1-5

Running feels miserable.

Heart rate is elevated.

Sweating begins earlier.

Paces slow significantly.

Days 7-10

Your body starts producing more plasma volume, allowing blood to circulate more efficiently.

Sweating becomes more effective.

Runs still feel hard, but recovery improves.

Days 10-14

Most runners begin noticing adaptation.

Heart rate stabilizes.

The same effort starts feeling easier.

Days 14-21

Full acclimation occurs for many runners.

The body becomes more efficient at cooling itself.

Heat tolerance improves dramatically.

Even elite runners need two to three weeks to become fully adapted. If Olympians can't skip the process, neither can we. I don't know about you, but this fact makes me feel better! And there's just something about understanding what's going on with the body that helps a person endure the process. 

I remember when I first began running many (and I mean many!) years ago and wondering why I felt like death for the first few weeks of July. And then I read about heat acclimation. That being said, let's move on... 

What Happens During Heat Acclimation?

Over those weeks, your body goes through several remarkable changes:

Blood plasma volume increases.

You begin sweating sooner and more efficiently.

Sweat becomes less salty, conserving electrolytes.

Core temperature stays lower.

Heart rate decreases at the same effort.

Perceived exertion improves.

In other words, your body is becoming a better air-conditioning system.

But ONLY if you give it time. One of the biggest mistakes runners make is trying to run May paces in July conditions. Summer demands a different mindset. With that being said, check out some of my favorite mindset changes... 

Instead of asking:

"Why am I so slow?"

Ask:

"How can I train smarter?"

Instead of saying:

"This run feels awful."

Say:

"This run is building my heat fitness."

Instead of chasing pace…

Chase effort.

Your fall self will thank you.

Embrace the Suck… And Embrace the Process which includes:

Slowing Down to Speed Up

A slower pace in June and July often leads to stronger performances in October and November.

Running by Effort, Not Ego

Your watch doesn't know it's 78 degrees with 85% humidity.

Listen to your body more than your pace.

Celebrating Showing Up

Some days the victory isn't a personal record.

It's simply lacing up and getting out the door.

Remember: Everybody Is Slower

You're not alone. The heat affects everyone.

Thinking Long-Term

Today's uncomfortable run is preparing you for cooler fall mornings and race day success. It's giving you grit and staying power. 

Trusting the Process

If you're beginning your journey toward the Bass Pro Marathon, Half Marathon, or the Dogwood Canyon Trail runs this November, this is exactly where you should be. Official trainings runs begin in July so it's important to adopt these mindsets now so you'll be ready and won't want to give up when the heat becomes oppressive and the humidity becomes so thick that you can cut it with a knife. 

But here's some more good news! The same runner who struggles through Missouri's heat and humidity in June often surprises themselves when cooler temperatures arrive in the fall. No joke!! I've been surprised on numerous occasions! So let's break out the tank tops, the shorty shorts, the sunscreen and the water bottles and let's get ready for some summer running! It might be really, really ugly for a while but it will get better!

And there you have it friends. The hottest season of the year will be here in a few days and there's nothing that you can I can do about it except acclimate to it. So as summer officially begins, give yourself permission to slow down. Trust the process. Embrace the suck. Because these sweaty summer miles are paving the way to the fall finish line. And come November, you'll be grateful you stayed faithful to the journey. Keep showing up. Keep lacing up. Keep believing. Keep hydrating. Your best running season may still be ahead. Happy Running!

Avoid “Outlandish” People

“Did not Solomon king of Israel sin by these things? yet among many nations was there no king like him, who was beloved of his God, and God made him king over all Israel: nevertheless even him did outlandish women cause to sin.” Nehemiah 13:26 KJV

In an inspiring story titled “He Just Became the First Person to Run Every Street in Chicago, Covering More Than 4,000 Miles in 680 Days” published by Runner’s World over the weekend, it was reported that Joabe Barbosa ran every block of the Windy City’s 234 square miles—with an infectious smile on his face…

Past Wrigley Field and the United Center, around the perimeter of O’Hare International Airport and through the University of Chicago campus in Hyde Park, there is not a single block within the city’s 234 square miles Barbosa has not covered on foot.

“The streets aren't going to run themselves,” he has said more than once, as if seeing it through were a matter of civic duty. After 680 days of averaging roughly 8.7 miles per day, Barbosa has made himself responsible for every one of them.

Barbosa, 25, is no stranger to outlandish pursuits. A clinical psychology doctoral student at Roosevelt University, he owns three Guinness World Records, including “Fastest Time to Travel to All Chicago Subway Stations,” and has lately found a particular satisfaction in creating additional obstacles for himself, among them running one half marathon in rain boots and another in a giant inflatable bee costume.

And, you know, Barbosa isn’t the only person who’s “no stranger to outlandish pursuits”. I wouldn’t hesitate to say that King Solomon, in fact, holds the record for them—when we take into consideration that “outlandish” in that day described foreigners who didn’t follow the laws of Israel—having amassed 700 wives and 300 concubines, totaling 1,000 women. The majority of these wives were foreign, primarily of royal birth, and included princesses from neighboring nations like Moab, Ammon, Edom, Sidon, and the Hittites.

Sadly, as wise as King Solomon was, 400 or so years after his death, he was used by Nehemiah as an example of what NOT to do and as a reminder that even the “smartest” man could be given over to temptation by “outlandish” women if he wasn’t careful.

"Moreover, in those days I saw men of Judah who had married women from Ashdod, Ammon and Moab. Half of their children spoke the language of Ashdod or the language of one of the other peoples, and did not know how to speak the language of Judah. I rebuked them and called curses down on them. I beat some of the men and pulled out their hair. I made them take an oath in God’s name and said: “You are not to give your daughters in marriage to their sons, nor are you to take their daughters in marriage for your sons or for yourselves. Was it not because of marriages like these that Solomon king of Israel sinned? Among the many nations there was no king like him. He was loved by his God, and God made him king over all Israel, but even he was led into sin by foreign women. Must we hear now that you too are doing all this terrible wickedness and are being unfaithful to our God by marrying foreign women?” One of the sons of Joiada son of Eliashib the high priest was son-in-law to Sanballat the Horonite. And I drove him away from me." Nehemiah 13:23-28

Unfortunately Solomon wasn’t the only man that went after “outlandish” pursuits. When Nehemiah returned to Jerusalem after an absence, he discovered the community had backslidden. Among other transgressions, Nehemiah was horrified to find that Jewish men had married women from Ashdod, Moab, and Ammon, and that their children could not even speak the language of Judah anymore. In fierce opposition, he rebuked the men, beat some of them, and pulled out their hair to force an oath that they would stop the practice. He also banished the grandson of the high priest for being allied with Sanballat.

Furthermore, to restore spiritual and moral order, he implemented aggressive reforms: cleansing the Temple, financially supporting the Levites, enforcing strict Sabbath observance, and abolishing intermarriage with surrounding pagan nations
 

"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?" 2 Corinthians 6:14

The lesson from all this? If Solomon, one of the wisest and most blessed men to have ever lived, sinned with unwise and ungodly relationships, then no one else should consider themselves invulnerable. This lesson is for women as well. In the words of Paul, we must be careful to never “be yoked together with unbelievers.” To do so will only lead us into darkness. 

So, heed the words of Paul and refrain from outlandish pursuits, my friend. Marry only someone who believes in Christ that you may have a holy, happy, and healthy marriage in which God is both glorified and obeyed. 

Heavenly Father, thank You very much for reminding us how deceitful and deadly it is to marry those who don’t align with our faith. This world tries to say that it doesn’t matter, but we see by the example of Solomon that it absolutely does. Help us to be wise in all our relationships and to yoke ourselves only with fellow believers Lord. It’s in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Do the Work of an Evangelist

“But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:5 NKJV

“Like a bride

Waiting for her groom
We'll be a church
Ready for You
Every heart longing for our King
We sing
Even so come
Lord Jesus come
Even so come
Lord Jesus come…”

As I raised my hands in worship yesterday morning and sang along with the worship band at church, I had to fight back tears at the yearning of my heart. "Lord, I'm so ready for you to return. Please come soon," I prayed. 

And then I had this sobering thought... I'm ready, but there are millions of people who aren't. Which is the very reason, I know, that I have to be ready at all times to "do the work of an evangelist" and fulfill the ministry God has given me to share the Good News with all those in my path. 

This, in turn, caused me to reflect back over the last few days. Knowing that I hadn't done a long run in a couple weeks, I felt led to take some time off of work Friday to get in a twenty mile run (something I aim to at do twice a month, unless I'm training for an ultra and then it's a bit more) since our weekend schedule was packed. I then was thankful to have had the time to run back to back double digit mile days on Saturday and Sunday. Why? So I will be ready to go wherever it is God calls me to go at a moment's notice. 

"Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God." 2 Corinthians 5:20

You see, while every believer is called to share the Gospel wherever they might be, we are all called to use our time and individual talents in ways that God has uniquely designed us to use them. Hence the reason there are so many different types of ministries (music, fitness, teaching, medical, hospitality, etc.). 

And while few people would call themselves blessed to be called to the world of long-distance running to share the Gospel, I count myself enormously blessed to travel to races (alongside my husband) and "do the work of an evangelist" by imploring others "on Christ's behalf, be reconciled to God.”

Which is the very reason that I must be ready at all times in the event I'm called to run a marathon or longer distance on short notice--something that’s happened on more occasions than I can recall. This is just the nature of being part of a running ministry. Since it takes months, and even years, to be physically able to run long distances, a person in this type of ministry doesn’t have time to get ready when the time comes, so must stay ready by putting in the work. 

"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen." Matthew 28:19-20

"Then He said to His disciples, 'The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few." Matthew 9:37

But here's the deal... no matter what ministry or talent God has gifted you with to do your part in fulfilling the Great Commission (and we all have a part), one thing is certain, you must be ready! You see, we live in a world that's in desperate need of hearing about Jesus and the saving-grace that only He can provide--a world where "the harvest is truly plentiful, but the laborers are few." 

"Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." 1 Corinthians 15:58

And, like a bride waiting for her groom, we must be a church ready for Jesus' return! This means we must be busy in the waiting! We must be watchful in all things (sober-minded with eyes laser locked on the mission), enduring afflictions while remaining faithful and focused, abounding in the work of evangelism, and mindful of the mission in front of us "knowing" that our "labor is not in vain in the Lord." 

So, whatever way God has called you to fulfill the ministry of evangelism, do what it takes to be ready my friend. And that means getting into the Word each and every day, committing Scripture to memory, and then honing the skills the Lord has blessed you with for His glory and the furthering of the Kingdom. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for allowing us to be a part of Your amazing plan of sharing salvation with the world. Help us to understand just how important this is Lord so that we would be found busy doing the work of an evangelist despite the afflictions and hardships that will come our way. Compel us to be ready at all times Lord by putting in the work necessary to run the race the second we are called to step up to the start line. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Do Your Part in Expanding the Reach

“Now Saul was consenting to his death. At that time a great persecution arose against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him. As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison.” Acts 8:1-3 NKJV

On Tuesday of this week, the World Marathon Majors made a big announcement, saying they are adding an eighth marathon to the roster, thus officially making the iconic WMM Series bigger. Not only are they expanding their reach, the series is adding an entirely new continent to the map.

The Cape Town Marathon has been added to the series beginning in 2027, making it the eighth World Marathon Major and giving runners a new global finish line to chase. The 2027 race is scheduled for May 23.

For years, the Majors stood at six races: Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York City. Sydney was added in 2024 to make it seven. Cape Town’s addition changes that map by expanding the series into Africa, giving it its first race in the group…

And, you know, while many runners will be thankful for the ingenuity that prompted the growth of the WMM series, Christians everywhere should be grateful for the persecution that scattered the early believers.

You see, people, even believers, have a tendency to get comfortable where they are. And while that’s not always a bad thing, comfortability can keep the church from doing their part in expanding the Kingdom—namely from going outside their “circle” to reach the lost. 

Which is the very reason we can be thankful for the trials that come our way that cause us to move out of the four walls of our homes and our houses of worship—something that could be seen in the early church. This “great persecution” arose against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles.”

“Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word. Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached Christ to them. And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.” Acts 8:4-6

Do you get that? Those followers of Jesus who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word! But it gets even better…. “Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached Christ to them. And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.”

But why was this so significant? Well…The significance of his preaching lies in his role in breaking down racial and geographical barriers to spread Christianity globally, which laid the foundation for the early church. Furthermore, Philip preaching in Samaria was a deeply significant move because Jews and Samaritans had centuries of historical and religious animosity. 
By bringing the Gospel there, Philip demonstrated that Christianity was not limited to Jewish heritage but was intended to overcome tribal and cultural divides. In other words, this showed that the Gospel message was for everyone!

“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 

So, consider it “pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds,” even persecution, because you can be confident that God not only works our troubles, tribulations, and adversities for our good, but uses them for the advancement of the Gospel in ways that we might only understand in looking back. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that You are sovereign over all and that You use the troubles of the world to redirect our paths and our purposes. Help us to view our trials as possible redirections, Lord, that we might not miss an opportunity to go where You are calling us to go to share the Good News of the Gospel with everyone. It’s in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Pay it Forward By Telling the Next Generation

“We will not hide them from their children, Telling to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, And His strength and His wonderful works that He has done.” Psalm 78:4 NKJV

In a story titled “NEW YORK MINI 10K RUNNER PAYING IT FORWARD TO INSPIRE NEXT GENERATION” published by ABC 7 NY, it was reported that Denise Peralta, who participated in the 2026 Mastercard New York Mini 10K recently, first found running through the Run for the Future program in 2015 when she was just a teenager, and it changed everything.

Run for the Future not only kicked off her running journey, but it also connected her with an amazing group of women, many of whom she's still friends with 11 years later.

She took a break from running after the program until one of her fellow Run for the Future graduates encouraged her to get involved with the alumni group.

She quickly got hooked and has completed 13+ NYRR races since, including the TCS New York City Marathon.

This summer, she will also be a race buddy for the Run for the Future program. With a full-time job in social services, which can be a stressful industry, running provides relief after a long day.

And, you know, when it comes to paying it forward, spiritually speaking, the best thing that you and I could ever do, in light of what God has done for us, is to tell the next generation about Him. This is the only way that we can inspire them to seek the Lord.

This is the theme of Psalm 78 which is a historical psalm of instruction written by Asaph. The beauty of this psalm is the way it contrasts God’s unwavering faithfulness and patience with humanity’s recurring cycle of forgetfulness, rebellion, and disobedience. The overarching message urges each generation to teach their children about God’s mighty works so they will trust Him and avoid the mistakes of their ancestors (that’s us).

The psalm opens by commanding parents to pass down God's laws and the history of His miracles so that future children will place their hope in Him rather than turning into a "stubborn and rebellious generation"

Sadly though, many believers treat this command to tell “the generation to come the praises of the LORD, And His strength and His wonderful works that He has done” as a suggestion rather than a command. But the Bible is clear that we are not to hide these Truths from our children or their children.

Which is the very reason that we, ourselves, must know the Word and live it out in our own lives. After all, children are more apt to follow what we do rather than what we say. Right?

So, don’t shy away from telling your children, their children, and the next generation about the Lord my friend. Your obedience will help to ensure that the next generation will seek the Lord and continue paying it forward by passing the baton of faith on as each one of us is commanded to do.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that the task of telling the next generation about You is not merely a suggestion but a command. Lord, in a world that’s growing increasingly hostile to the Word, help us to not hide the Truths laid out in the Bible and to inspire the next generation to seek You both by sharing our testimonies at every opportunity. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Do Some Smile Miles

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 way to "brighten up" your run today. I know, you're probably saying to yourself, "Melissa, we are in the midst of a three-day heat wave with full sun. How much brighter can it get?" If that's you, you'll be happy to know that I'm not talking about the weather but about your outlook.

But first, I'll share with you that I had some serious FOMO over the weekend because I had to miss out on all the fun at the Finley Farms Run on Saturday. And while I absolutely love my job as the Wellness Coordinator for our local county health department, I was sad that one of the races I direct fell on the same day as this awesome Bass Pro Fitness Series event. So, I did what every runner does when they miss out on the opportunity to participate in an awesome race.... I looked at all the photos. 

And, let me tell you, there were a lot of smiling runners! The best part? Looking at their smiles made me smile! But that should come as no surprise since science shows this response to be something we're hard-wired to have. 

You see, people smile back at others primarily because of mirror neurons—which are specialized brain cells that subconsciously fire when you and I observe an action, prompting our brains to copy it and build instant empathy. This automatic, biological reaction helps people bond, signal safety, and share emotions. Pretty cool right? 

This means, the "you smile, I smile" phenomenon is driven by a mix of neurology, psychology, and evolution. When we see someone smile, these unique brain cells trigger our own facial muscles to mirror the expression of the other person before we even realize it. When we smile back (even if it starts as an automatic reaction) our brains feel better because this simple physical act triggers the release of feel-good neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins. 

Now, here's where it gets good! In a recent article published by Runner's World, the writer stated that "Doing a 'Smile Mile' Could be the Best Way to Brighten Your Run" because the challenge measures your run in smiles, not distance. 

And the challenge is easy. Approach your next run with the question “How many people can I get to smile today?” And then lock eyes and smile at everyone you see on your run, counting up the smiles you receive back rather than the miles that you stack up. 

By doing this, you're almost guaranteed to come out feeling good about how you spent your time. It can be especially sweet to share a smile with other runners, as author, poet, and runner David Larbi pointed out in a recent TikTok. It’s also a good way to build up your rejection tolerance, as evidenced by marathoner Natalia Leckey (@thankfulshawty), who made a video lamenting the many people who ignore her when she greets them while on a run.

Even if you're not looking to get others to smile during your run, it turns out a different sort of smile mile can be beneficial; according to a recent study, smiling while running can actually make your own run more efficient. And who knows? Maybe your own pearly whites are all you need to make another person smile, too.

And there you have it friends. Smiling benefits both the one doing it and the one receiving it. So, do some 'Smile Miles' from time to time and reap the benefits that come from putting on a joyful grin for the world to see. Your runs will be brighter and so will your outlook. Happy Running!

Be Consistent and Committed

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:58 NKJV

In an amazing story of prolonged perseverance, it was reported that Gabe Rainwater of Fresno completed his 20th consecutive Mohican 100-Mile Trail Run in Loudonville, becoming only the sixth runner in event history to reach that milestone and the youngest to do so. Amazing right?

The Mohican 100 is one of the Midwest’s premier ultramarathons, challenging runners to cover 100 miles of rugged trails through the Mohican State Forest and surrounding area.

Runners must complete the course within 32 hours to earn an official finish and buckle. Two hundred runners started the 2026 challenge but only 87 crossed the finished line.

As a result of reaching 20 career finishes, Rainwater was awarded the coveted 2,000-Mile Buckle.

Rainwater’s streak began in 2006 and has continued uninterrupted for two decades. Over those years, he has navigated extreme heat, mud, storms and the physical and mental challenges. His accomplishment reflects not only endurance and athletic ability, but also consistency and commitment, according to the release.

And, you know, when it comes to our spiritual race, the Bible is very clear that the road to the finish line will be filled with mental and physical challenges as well—challenges so great that it will require commitment and consistency to overcome them.

This is something Paul made clear when he wrote to the church at Corinth and said "Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain."

This single verse highlights exactly why consistency matters on our faith journey, which is a journey that begins the day we accept Jesus as our Savior and only ends when we see Him face to face.

Hence the reason Paul exhorted the Corinthians to "Be steadfast." Paul wanted them (and us) to be faithful to the Lord and to his teaching about the Lord—in essence keeping a faithfulness “streak” of uninterrupted loyalty, fidelity, and devotion to God.

Furthermore, because Paul was concerned about the Corinthians' tendency to compromise their behavior and even their beliefs for the sake of the culture in which they lived, Paul told them to be "immovable.” 

This applies even more to us today, in a time when we see many believers start the race but fail to finish the race—because they went off course by compromising to “fit in” with the culture to avoid being “cancelled.” Don’t be that person! Don't let a moment of temporary weakness and temptation keep you from reaping the eternal rewards that come with remaining firmly fixed, faithful, and unyielding in purpose. 

And lastly, Paul exhorted them to always be “abounding in the work of the Lord,” because that is the only work that will produce fruit that will last for eternity, compared to so much of life’s work that ceases to have meaning in years, days, or even minutes. This “knowing,” he hoped, would fill them with the enthusiasm and unwavering commitment that would cause them to be plentifully, richly, and amptly productive each and every day and over a lifetime.

So, be committed and consistent my friend, knowing that “your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” Be steadfast. Be immovable. And stay in the race until the end confident that your efforts will produce abundant fruit that will last infinitely longer than a 2,000 mile belt buckle will.

Heavenly Father, thank you for reminding us that this road will not be easy. And thank You for the words of Paul that remind us that we WILL go through trials and tribulations. Help us to have the steadfastness of our Savior Jesus Christ when this happens Lord, so that we will never back down but continue running until the final finish line. In Your precious name, we pray Jesus. amen.

Happy Running!

True Faith Can’t be Destroyed

"We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed— " 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 NKJV

In a heartbreaking story titled “Husband of slain runner pleads for tips for wife whose faith drove her” published last week, the writer said Oluwabukola Pereira-Showole, who went by Bukola or Bukky, was fatally shot May 8 in Lockland. Witnesses say she was chasing a man who robbed the auto business where Pereira-Showole was a manager.

Now, nearly a month after her death, no arrests have been made. Showole said on June 5 that her family is offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and indictment of the suspect.

Bukola was an elite runner on the Nigeria's national track team. She came to the United States and competed at several colleges across the country and previously won the Flying Pig 5K. She was preparing to graduate from Xavier University on May 16 with her second master's degree before she was gunned down.

"Her faith was the engine that drove her," Showole said outside Vineyard Cincinnati Church in Springdale, where a celebration of Bukola's life will be held next week.

He said his wife would wake up every morning and pray. When he made a mistake, she showed him instant forgiveness. At home, he always knew where was in the house because he could hear her singing gospel songs....

"This person has ripped apart a significant part of our lives, but he has not destroyed our faith in the grace of the Lord," he said. "This person needs to come forward and repent for this great sin."

Showole said that Bukola brought pure joy to their home and loved his twin son and daughter like they were her own.

"As Christians, we say the Bible is God's love letter to humanity," he said. "For me, Bukola is God's personal love letter to me."

And, you know, as tragic as this story is, it serves as a reminder that, although we, as believers, might face trials that cause us to feel "hard-pressed on every side," these trials will not crush us. 
We might experience sorrows and face circumstances that cause us to feel completely baffled, but we have no reason to ever be discouraged. 

We might be afflicted and oppressed for our faith, but we can remain confident that God will never abandon or desert us. We might even suffer devastating blows, but we can remain calm, steadfast, and courageous in the face of adversity and life’s difficulties, knowing that we will be divinely preserved. 

This means our faith in the grace of the Lord can remain unwavering and strong in the midst of a chaotic world and the ripping apart of portions of our lives. 

"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.'" John 16:33

Why? Because we have "God's love letter to humanity," that gives us peace and comfort in all situations. In this love letter known as the Bible, our Savior promised this… "In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." 

Did you get that "will" part?  That means, it's not a matter of if we will have trouble but when. 

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16-17  

Furthermore, since we know that ALL Scripture is inspired by God, we know that we can count on ALL the promises of God. 

"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you." Isaiah 43:2

"that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ," 1 Peter 1:7

This includes the beautiful promise found in Isaiah 43:2 that tells us "when" we go through overwhelming emotions, chaotic circumstances, and life's sudden crises (the waters and the rivers) that cause us to fear we will drown, God will be with us and keep us afloat. 

And "when" we experience intense periods of testing, persecution, or severe suffering (the fire), we can be confident that "the genuineness" of our faith, "though it is tested by fire" will be divinely preserved for eternity, showing that true faith can never be destroyed. This ultimately brings glory to God and will be rewarded by Jesus Christ upon His return. 

So, no matter what you're going through today, take hold of the promises in the Bible my friend. Read them thoroughly and commit them to memory so that "when" the day of trouble comes, you won't be shaken and your faith in the grace of the Lord will not be destroyed. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word that gives us comfort, guidance, peace, instruction, and so much more. Compel us to read it each and every day Lord that we might be equipped for every good work and ready for every trial that we will face. We pray for the Showole family today God. May they feel your peace and may Bukky's legacy of faithfulness (her well-worn Bible is pictured above) live on and inspire others to seek Christ in the same way that she did. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Make it your Objective to Finish

"But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God." Acts 20:24 NKJV

In a recent heartwarming story titled “This 90-Year-Old Runner Just Finished His First Marathon After Rediscovering Running Later in Life,” it was reported that Bill Schwarz completed the Rock ‘n’ Roll San Diego Marathon, inspiring countless runners along the way.

At 90, Bill Schwarz just took on his first marathon at Rock ‘n’ Roll San Diego on May 31. And while he didn’t officially finish within the race’s time limit, he still covered the full 26.2-mile distance, which is more than enough to be impressed by.

A spokesperson for Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series confirmed to Runner’s World that Schwarz completed the marathon in a little over nine hours, though not inside the official cutoff window…

Schwarz wasn’t new to running, either. He told Run Outside that he first began running in high school in the ’50s and found his way back to the sport more seriously after his wife died. What began as a way to “give [his] life a purpose again” eventually grew into 5Ks, half marathons, and then the idea of attempting a full marathon.

“My objective is to finish,” Schwarz said to Run Outside before the Rock ‘n’ Roll marathon. “And whatever time it takes, it’s going to be wonderful.”

And, you know, when it comes to goals, the objective of every believer (whether new or old to the faith) should be to finish their "race with joy," letting nothing move them from the mission (no matter how long it takes) "to testify to the gospel of the grace of God." 

This was something that Paul understood and expressed during his final missionary journey chronicled in Acts 20—which details Paul's troubles and trials as he traveled throughout many towns, his miraculous raising of a young man from the dead in Troas, and ends with his emotional, tearful farewell address to the Ephesian church elders. 

"As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” And he said, “Who are You, Lord?” Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” So he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do You want me to do?” Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” And the men who journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice but seeing no one. Then Saul arose from the ground, and when his eyes were opened he saw no one. But they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus." Acts 9:3-8

Like millions of other believers around the world, Paul had entered the race in his later years (around the age of 27-33) after a life-changing event that caused him to see his need for Jesus. His encounter with the Lord caused Saul (later named Paul) to not only arise from the ground as Jesus commanded him but compelled Paul to passionately serve Jesus for the rest of his days—so much so that Paul declared that none of his trials moved him "nor do I count my life dear to myself." His sole objective was to finish the race with joy and declare the Good News until the very end, no matter how long it took, knowing that, in the end, it would be wonderful!

So, knowing that the end goal for every believer must be to finish the race well, make it your objective to let nothing move you so that you can boldly declare the gospel in the same way Paul did my friend. And whether you're 19 or 90, vow to live a life of purpose from this day forward by living a life dedicated to knowing Jesus and to making His great Name known. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that our lives are not our own and that the measure of a life lived well is found in the number of people that we inspired to seek You by the way we ran our race. Lord, help us to consider our lives worth nothing if they aren't lived for You so that we would seek to bring You glory in all we do. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

No Appeal will Change the Ending

“And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment, so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.” Hebrews 9:27-28 NKJV

In a story titled “A High School Runner Was DQ’d After a Finish-Line Celebration. Now the Decision Has Been Overturned” published by Runner’s World yesterday, it was reported that Mallard Creek High School in North Carolina won its appeal and will share the team title and 4 x 400-meter relay state championship.

Mallard Creek High School will get the state title recognition it’s been fighting for.

After an appeal overturned the disqualification that initially cost the boys’ track team the 2026 NCHSAA 8A state championship, the North Carolina High School Athletic Association Board of Directors officially voted to name both Mallard Creek and C.E. Jordan High School co-champions. The board also voted to recognize Mallard Creek and Hough High School as co-champions in the boys’ 4 x 400-meter relay.

That disqualification had become one of the most talked-about high school track rulings of the season. Mallard Creek anchor Nyan Brown crossed first in the final relay at the state meet, which would have secured the team title. That was until officials went on to disqualify the relay for unsportsmanlike conduct after Brown raised his hand before the finish line.

The ruling gave Mallard Creek no points in the event and left Jordan as the original boys 8A champion. Videos of the finish quickly went viral, with many questioning whether the gesture matched the severity of the consequence. But now, the appeal changes that ending…

And, you know, while Brown was successful in his appeal, thereby changing the outcome of his situation and that of the team, the Bible is very clear that there will be no chance for appeal for anyone after they’ve breathed their last here on earth.

“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” John 14:6

“For “whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved.’” Romans 10:13

“Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.” John 3:36

You see, there is only one way to the Father and that is through Jesus Christ. All those who believe in Him and accept Him as their Savior will have eternal life but all those who reject Him “shall not see life” but will face the wrath of God.

This is important to understand since many “religions” believe in reincarnation or purgatory, thus eliminating the need to commit to trusting in Jesus Christ as Savior.

But nothing could be further from the truth. The Bible is very clear about that when it says “it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment, so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.”

This passage outlines a strict, two-step sequence for every human being: death, followed immediately by judgment. Which means death seals the verdict, with no opportunity for appeal and the moment a person takes their final breath, their spiritual status is permanently locked. There is no holding area, and no courtroom where a person can change their mind or negotiate.

Spurgeon explained it this way…. A man dies once, and after that everything is fixed and settled, and he answers for his doings at the judgment. One life, one death - then everything is weighed, and the result declared: ‘after this the judgment.’ So Christ comes, and dies once; and after this, for him also the result of what he has done, namely, the salvation of those who look for him. He dies once, and then reaps the fixed result, according to the analogy of the human race, of which he became a member and representative.”

So, don’t put off making the decision to trust in Jesus if you haven’t already done so my friend. There is not one person living that is guaranteed another day here on earth. The only guarantee for anyone is that all those who have accepted Christ as their Savior will spend eternity in heaven and all those who chose not to accept Jesus will spend eternity in hell, and no appeal will change that ending.

Heavenly Father, thank You for making it clear that You are the only way to eternal life. Help us to understand this fully Lord so that we would choose to follow You today and every day and never back down from preaching the Good News so that others would too. It’s in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION-Celebrate Global Running Day by Signing Up for the BPFS

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog

Now let’s get started by talking about what today is… Global Running Day! This is a worldwide celebration of running, which just happens to be one of my most favorite things to do. I know, I know, that comes as no shock, right?!!

Which is the very reason that today is a great day for me to encourage you to start running as well, if you’re not currently doing it. Or to encourage you to continue doing it, if you already are, and maybe even to up your game to shoot for a PR or a new distance. And to jump start all that, you should join in on all the fun that's happening tonight at Fleet Feet in Springfield at The Big Run Fun Run!! You’ll meet like-minded people and can participate in a 5k by running, walking, or doing a combination of it.

With that being said, if you've been thinking about signing up for the Bass Pro Marathon, Half Marathon, or the Dogwood Canyon Trail Runs happening this November, there may be no better day than Global Running Day to officially begin your training journey.

Why? Because if you’re starting from scratch, you’ll need time to build up a solid base of endurance through a Couch to 5k program or something similar. This will allow you to be ready for the “official” Bass Pro Training Groups presented by OMRR (Ozarks Mountain Ridge Runners) that begin in July (if you’re in the Pulaski County area, FFG-Frog Fitness Group will be hosting these runs as well). 

But, hey, if you’re saying, “Can I just skip the Couch to 5k and go straight to the Couch to Marathon (or half-marathon) plan?” To that I would say, yes it's possible, if you don’t rush the process and are willing to do run/walk intervals. Many people have successfully completed a marathon after six months of consistent training using this method. And while it’s certainly possible that you could run the whole thing, I would not recommend trying to race it without giving your body more time to be prepared for the physical stress it would take to do so—especially if you’re an older adult. 

With that being said, there are a few things to consider, like your training goal and your finishing time goal before getting started. Like I said, finishing a 26.2 mile race with only six months of training is possible but racing a marathon at your full potential will most likely take more time (it’s more doable with a 13.1 distance). Which is why the goal of most beginners should be to cross the finish line healthy, smiling, and proud of what you've accomplished. 

Before You Begin Though…

If you've been completely inactive or have any health concerns, it's wise to get medical clearance before beginning a marathon training program.

You should also understand that marathon training requires patience.

There are no shortcuts.

The runners who succeed are often not the most talented—they're the most consistent.

Finally, sign up for the race and then find a training program that works for you. It's important that you do it in that order so you'll have some "skin in the game" and take your training seriously. Time is of the essence if you want to cross one of the Bass Pro finish lines in November. 

And there you have it friends. It's entirely possible to go from the Couch to a Marathon or Half Marathon (or the 15k or 25k at Dogwood) in six months. Thousands of runners have done it. But the key isn't running hard. The key is running consistently. Start where you are. Run easy. Increase gradually. Trust the process. And six months from now, you may find yourself standing at the starting line of a marathon wondering how the person who once sat on the couch became someone capable of running 26.2 miles.

Happy Running!