Gaining Traction

I’m not really a runner.  I’m more of a “want to be” runner.  I’ve gone from couch to 5K, 5K to 10K and back to couch and then starting over again.  And while I would still not be considered a runner in most categories, in the last few weeks I have been noticeably gaining some traction.  My stamina and endurance have improved.  I have even been able to stay focused on the path ahead without getting sidetracked by soreness and fatigue.

The unseasonably cool weather has probably helped as well as a new pair of running shoes.  But what has made the most difference is the nourishment my body has been getting.  For the first time in my life, I am drinking more water (prior post link) to the point where my calves are no longer cramping up from dehydration.  The caffeine has been removed from my diet as well as most carbs and sweets.  And although this lifestyle change may not be completely permanent, it has been amazing to see the difference in how my body can perform when it is getting all the right nutrients (and not so much of the bad ones).

And regardless of whether you consider yourself a runner or more of a “want to be” runner like me, as followers of Christ we all have a race to run and we need to be gaining some traction.  A wonderful scripture about our race can be found in Hebrews 12:1-2.

In the race of our lives, we are called to run with endurance while keeping our eyes on Jesus.  And we are given the assurance that He will provide us with His faith that will move us from the start to the finish line.

This race is about staying on the obedient course that Jesus has so lovingly laid out for us, letting go of the distractions of sin, allowing His precious love to shine through us in our words and actions, helping and sharing with others along the way, building endurance and allowing our faith to grow through the times we stumble and even fall, and the whole time keeping our our eyes fixed on our Savior.  This is the very definition of moving from chaos to Christ.

This shouldn’t be confused with the chaos of the rat race, trying to finish first in our society through worldly success.  There is no real prize at the end of that race.  In fact, it is futile.  I Corinthians 9:26 warns about that race”So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air.”

So how can we gain some traction in the race of life?  Just like our bodies perform better getting the right nourishment, it is important for us to continually fill our hearts and minds with the words of God through time spent in prayer and Bible Study.  It is only then that we will really be able to keep our focus firmly on Christ.  He will help diminish the distractions of sin.  He will keep us from continually looking backward at our past mistakes and disappointments by providing forgiveness and mercy and instead, allow us to move forward with His strength, His endurance.

I pray that in this important race – the very race of our lives – that we will look to Jesus.  That we will allow Him to continually show us the way, help us to run and not grow weary, give us compassion to help others along the journey, and finish the course strong.  It is time for us all to get on our running shoes, lace up, and get moving!!  Look forward to seeing you out on the course!