Make Time to Train for Godliness

“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

In a story titled “Teenager Saves His Dad’s Life After He Collapses During Half Marathon” published last week, it was reported that Last month, father and son duo Rafael and Isaac Ruggieri were nearing the 8-mile mark of the 2024 Illinois Half Marathon when Rafael’s heart stopped beating and he collapsed onto the asphalt. “He went on his knees and then on his hands and then onto his face, and I thought he just passed out,” Isaac told WCCU/WICS News… Fortunately, 18-year-old Isaac had just completed a lifeguarding course the week before and was trained in CPR, so he immediately took action…  “I just did it. Because I was like, ‘All right, this is go-time. This is it: save your dad or he dies,’” he said to WCCU/WICS . “I was just relying on my training and just focused on helping him as much as possible. So, I wasn’t really thinking about my emotions or anything.” The father of five survived and is still recovering but told his local news station that he feels almost back to normal—all thanks to the life saving actions of his eldest son.

And you know, as this story clearly shows, at any moment you and I might be thrust into a situation where we will have to rely on our training to save someone from imminent death. Spiritually speaking, that means we must be ready—by reading and studying the Word diligently so that we will be trained for godliness—and “thoroughly equipped” to not only share the Good News at a moments notice, but to declare and defend the truths laid out in the Bible when necessary. Truths that have the power to restore and redeem those people lost in their sin and facing spiritual death. 

So while it’s always great to get out and get in a workout every day, we must put even more effort into training for godliness my friend. After all, “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.”

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that physical training is important so we can keep our temples in shape, but spiritual training is of utmost importance. Compel us to put in the work each and every day so we can be spiritually and physically ready to serve You at all times and in every way. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Be Unashamed to Share the Good News

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.” Romans 1:16 CEV

In a story titled “Marathon training season is here again, and I’m even more annoying than last year” published Saturday, the writer had me laughing when she wrote, “I regret to inform you that I am training for another big race, and I have managed to become even more insufferable about it this year. For those who found themselves trapped in a conversation with me at any point last summer, that may be hard to believe. But I am, in fact, twice as annoying this training season for two reasons: First, I’m running the same marathon I ran last year and bring it up every chance I get. Like a tiger lurking in tall grass, waiting to pounce on an unsuspecting water buffalo, I wait in the wings of conversations for my chance to mention that I ran the St. George Marathon and would you believe that I’m doing it again?…”

And you know, all joking aside, when it comes to waiting in the wings of conversations for any chance to mention something that many might describe as “annoying,” you and I would do well to adopt the unwavering attitude of Paul who declared, “I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.” You see, there are many things you and I could talk about with the lost, like running or the weather, to keep the conversation ‘safe’, but no “thing” is more important to discuss than whether a person is saved. Which is the very reason we must be willing to risk the disapproval of man to share the Good News at every opportunity. It’s the only “thing” that has eternal importance!

So, be ready and willing to speak up every chance you get my friend. There are millions of people in our world who need to hear about the saving grace of Jesus Christ before it’s too late. And if we don’t tell them at the expense of facing shame, who will? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for saving us from our sins and giving us new life. Lord, help us to be so thankful for this that we would beckon all those who have not trusted you as their Savior to come to the foot of the Cross before it’s too late. Cause us to be unashamed and unapologetic, knowing that we might be labeled “annoying” for doing so. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

There is Nothing God Cannot Do

“Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be.’” Romans 4:18 NIV

In a heartwarming story titled “ RUN-BELIEVABLE Runner finishes 36 marathons in 36 days despite doctors warning she’d not live past 16” published Wednesday, it was reported that fitness coach Sophie Holmes, 32, set the record by completing the Edinburgh Marathon. Sophie, who has cystic fibrosis, has now raised £25,000 from the challenge which started with the London Marathon. She is the first person with the disease to do 36 marathons in 36 days. Cystic fibrosis causes mucus in the lungs and, at age four months, doctors said Sophie, from Southend, Essex, would not live past 16. She said: "My determination to survive and thrive and to defy the odds has been born probably from as young as I can remember.” Wow right? 

And you know, when it comes to defying the odds, the Bible tells us that “Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” In other words, despite all the odds stacked against Abraham’s wife, Sarah, to bear a son at her advanced age, Abraham was determined to trust the promise God had given him and was blessed with Isaac by doing so. Which means, if God can bring life to a 90-year-old woman’s dead womb, there’s absolutely nothing He can’t do… no matter how it might appear through human eyes. 

So, no matter what odds you might be facing today, choose to trust God my friend. He is bigger than any disease, any disappointment, any disaster, and any of our biggest doubts. And He can definitely, definitively, and undeniably defy the biggest odds. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for being the only God who can call those who are dead in their trespasses and sin to new life in Jesus. Talk about defying the odds! Help us to trust You in the same way Abraham did Lord that we might boldly walk out our faith for others to see and emulate. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Be Strong and Speak Up

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 NIV

In a story titled “Runner spots county workers dumping trash behind Macon-Bibb park” published Tuesday by WGXA News, it was reported that a Middle Georgia resident said he notified county employees Friday morning after seeing workers dumping trash in the back area of a public property. 

Out for his usual morning run in Macon-Bibb's Carolyn Crayton Park, Lee Long said he began to notice something unsightly piling up… For Long

, to see county workers doing the dumping in the back of the park, near the softball fields, was unsettling.

"I was shocked. It's one of those things where Bibb County is really big on cleaning up illegal dumping, and to see employees do it themselves was a little disappointing." Before Long contacted WGXA News, he took the matter to Macon-Bibb County,

And you know, when it comes to seeing something wrong and having the courage to say something about it, the Bible commands all believers to expose the unfruitful and evil works and deeds of darkness (works and deeds that are increasing every day). Which means we must speak up when the Lord calls us to speak, no matter the hostility and hate we will receive by doing so. Which also means we must heed the command to “be strong and courageous,” something that is easy to do only when we remember and truly believe that the same God who went with Joshua into the battle is the same God that will go with us into the battle, fulfilling the promise to be with us wherever we go. 

So as you look around at all the darkness in our world today, refuse to be afraid or discouraged my friend. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never overcome it. Trust in that promise and be bold. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we have no reason to fear once we have placed our trust in You. Over and over again, You have proven yourself faithful and we know You won’t stop now. Help us to graciously speak up when we are called to Lord so that we can do our part in bringing the darkness to light. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Bass Pro Midweek Motivation - Get Outdoors this Month

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 in the month of June… National Great Outdoors Month! And June 1st is National Trails Day! Which means this Saturday is the perfect time to ditch those city streets and start the month off right by running, walking or hiking some trails. Unfortunately for me, I don't live close enough to the Dogwood Canyon Nature Park (where my favorite dirt paths are located) to incorporate their trails into my training program as many of you might, but I do have trails near my home as I know you probably do as well (at least within driving distance) if you aren’t close to the iconic Dogwood Canyon Trail Run routes. If you're not sure where your local trails are located, check out the Missouri Hiking Trails list that AllTrails has come up with and make plans to get out into nature by yourself or with some friends or family. 

And you know, while there are many benefits to exercising in general, outdoor activities (aka getting out into the great outdoors) such as running, hiking, biking, or exploring local areas benefit the mind and body in ways that indoor exercise can't. For instance, studies have shown that people who spent time in nature experienced less anxiety, depression, and anger than their urban counterparts. One particular study compared two groups of adults who participated in a nature walk at an urban park with one group led through busy streets with heavy traffic. Participants rated their moods before and after the walk. After completing the walks, both groups were assessed for anxiety, depression, and anger levels. The researchers observed that those who walked in nature felt happier than those who passed through urban environments. As someone who's exercised in both environments, I would concede wholeheartedly with the researchers that a run completed out in nature makes a person way happier. That's why it's called the great outdoors! It's great!!

But don't just take my word for it, check out what MYACARE had to say about the overall Benefits of Exercising in the Great Outdoors:

It can be more fun than an indoor workout. Working out in nature can help to relax and unwind after a stressful day. It is also a great way to enjoy the weather while getting the heart rate up.

Exercising in nature can help burn more calories than exercising indoors because natural environments make the body work harder. This is because it forces the maintenance of balance to keep up with the activity being done. For example, walking uphill burns more calories than walking on flat ground because it takes more effort for the muscles to move the body, countering the extra resistance of gravity and uneven terrain.

The outdoors offer increased sunlight exposure. Sunlight exposure helps boost mood, regulates the sleep cycle, and even helps in living longer. When people spend time outdoors on their breaks from work or school, they report feeling more refreshed and less stressed afterward.

It's free. There is no cost associated with getting outside and enjoying the fresh air. You can walk or jog around your neighborhood or go on a hike in a nearby park without spending any money at all.

Here are the mental and physical benefits of outdoor activities compared to the gym:

Mental Benefits:

There are many mental benefits associated with outdoor activities. For example; Hiking: It can be a very relaxing activity that helps de-stress from work or other responsibilities. It presents an opportunity to spend time with your friends or family while enjoying nature together. A person gets a chance to learn new things about themselves while hiking, such as how far they can walk without getting tired or how long it takes for them to stop sweating after reaching a mountain peak. These insights can help improve health by enabling better dietary and lifestyle choices.

Walking: Walking at least 10,000 steps per day will help in losing weight and improving health. The benefits of outdoor activities versus gym workouts are numerous. While some people may feel more comfortable working out in a gym, there are many advantages to exercising outside.

Outdoor Activities Can Reduce Stress
Getting outside can be an excellent way to reduce stress. Exercise releases endorphins that make you feel happy and relaxed. It also allows you to take time away from your busy life and focus solely on yourself.

Outdoor Activities Improve Mental Health
Exercising outdoors has been proven to improve mental health. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can boost creativity and improve cognitive function. Being around plants and greenery can also boost mood and reduce anxiety.

Outdoor Activities Can Help Improve Sleep
Exercising outdoors early in the day can promote better sleep patterns as this helps regulate the circadian rhythm - the 24-hour process that controls the sleep-wake cycle. According to research published in the journal Nature, exercising during daylight hours can help reset the natural clock so that falling asleep is easier at night. It also helps reduce daytime fatigue due to inadequate sleep or excessive sunlight exposure.

The physical benefits:

According to a study, outdoor activities are as good, if not better, than indoor activities for improving physical fitness. This is because they provide a greater range of motion and promote more muscle activity. Indoor activities are often repetitive and involve only one or two muscle groups at a time. This can lead to injuries, especially if not properly warmed up and stretched before the workout. In contrast, outdoor activities utilize multiple muscle groups simultaneously and require movement in all directions rather than in just one direction repeatedly. A good example would be riding an elliptical machine vs running outside. When riding an elliptical machine, there is no impact on the joints, so it is much easier on the body than going out for a run, where every step involves shock absorption through joints and bones.

Other positive impacts that outdoor activities have on the human body: Exercise is great for health. It helps improve mood and reduce stress levels, which can help prevent serious health problems like heart disease or diabetes. Exercise also helps strengthen muscles and bones, which can help prevent injuries while playing sports or doing other types of physical activity. When exercising outside, especially in the mornings, more vitamin D is absorbed than indoors. Studies have shown that Vitamin D helps prevent depression and optimizes physical performance. According to a 2016 study in the journal of Psychophysiology, people who exercise outside have lower heart rates and blood pressure compared to those who work out indoors or in a gym.

Exercising outside can help reduce stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels in the body. Cortisol is a hormone that helps deal with stressful situations by releasing energy through increased blood pressure and heart rate. When there is too much cortisol in the body, there is a higher level of anxiety or depression symptoms experienced. Exercising outdoors also gives us an opportunity to meet new people while getting fresh air and sunlight, which can help improve mood and boost self-esteem. It also increases energy expenditure, reduces stress, and improves physical fitness.

So there you have it friends. There's no better time than now to get out into the great outdoors for some exercise and some quiet time. It's good for your mental health, physical health, and your spiritual health. Spend time in nature as often as you can, and you'll reap benefits far beyond your imagination.... benefits you'll never experience inside! Happy Running!

Be a Person Others can Take Inspiration From

“When the time drew near for David to die, he gave a charge to Solomon his son. I am about to go the way of all the earth,” he said. “So be strong, act like a man,” 1 Kings 2:1-2 NIV

In an inspiring story titled “80-Year-Old Woman Runs Record-Breaking 5K”published last week, it was reported that Decorated masters runner Jan Holmquist just added another new record to her resume. Clocking a time of 24:08 at the Great Bear Run in Massachusetts (which also doubled as the official 5K of the New England Road Race Grand Prix Series), she improved the age group record for the 5K distance by over a minute and ran the race next to her granddaughter. Holmquist just turned 80, and it was her birthday wish to make 5K history. When a CBS News reporter asked Holmquist, who has been an avid runner since her late 30s, if she was “too old for this,” she simply laughed, and advised anyone else looking to take inspiration from her “...to start. Just set a goal.”

And you know, when it comes to being someone others can take inspiration from, “when the time drew near for David to die, he gave a charge to Solomon his son” that we would all do well to follow. He told him to “be strong” and “act like a man.” David, a man known for his great courage, leadership skills, and a steadfast love for God despite his many imperfections, went on to explain that a man of God would know God’s laws and obey them. Doing so, David told Solomon, would cause him to prosper in all he did wherever he went. Do you just love that or what? 

So let us do all that we can to know God’s laws and obey them my friend. Our unworldly behavior by doing so will not only set us apart from nonbelievers but will undoubtedly inspire many people to seek the One David loved with all his heart. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that men and women of God will act differently than the world does, and by doing so will be people that others can take inspiration from. Help us to seek and love You with all our hearts, minds, and souls Lord. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Remember and Repent

If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV

Like hundreds of other runners around the United States this Memorial Day morning who have the day off, I will be joining friends and fellow patriots for a long run. This won’t be just any ordinary run though. We will be putting forth purposeful steps to honor the memory of our nation’s fallen military heroes— those brave men and women who sacrificed their lives to give us the freedoms we enjoy today—by joining in a circle of remembrance before setting out to log some bittersweet miles while carrying our American flags in an effort to remind those around us that this day isn’t about barbecues, parties, and relaxation… but about paying tribute to those who have earned it. 

And you know, when it comes to remembrance, it’s plain to see that we are a nation that has, for the most part, not only failed to remember that we are free only because of the sacrifice of thousands of brave men and women who fought and died for our freedoms, but we are a nation that has forgotten God as well. And because of that, we are now a nation experiencing increasing lawlessness, spiraling moral decay, and a growing lack of love and compassion for others. Not all hope is lost though. There is a cure for our condition. And it’s this… we must humble ourselves, and pray, and seek His face, and turn from our wicked ways. It’s only then that we will hear from heaven, and God will forgive our sin, and will heal our land. In other words, we must remember, repent, and return to God. 

So as you go about your day today, thank God for the eternal life He granted you by the death of His Son Jesus Christ on the cross my friend. And then take a moment to pray, pause and remember those who gave their lives so you and I could be free.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Jesus and His sacrifice. He gave His life so that we could be free from the penalty of sin. And thank You for all the brave soldiers who died to give us the freedoms we now enjoy. Lord, today cause us to consider how far we have strayed from You and to turn back before it’s too late. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!