“If you live a life guided by wisdom, you won’t limp or stumble as you run” (Proverbs 4:12 NLT).
I’m not a runner. Thing is, if you ever see me running, you can assume I have seen a snake and am high-tailing it out of the vicinity.
I will tell you that I thought about taking up running for exercise—for about 5 seconds. I’d love the health that comes with a regimen of training for 5K runs and marathons. I’d truly enjoy having the legs that runners have. I’d even like to add runner to the list of hats I wear…but not enough to train or discipline myself for the task. I’m sure I’d like to experience the thrill of victory as I cross the finish line. But, as I said, I’m not a runner.
Fear also keeps me from running. I’m afraid I won’t finish another thing I start. I’m afraid I won’t make it to the end of the race. I’m afraid I’ll fall and get hurt. I’m afraid I’ll pass from this life to the next because I’m in such poor physical condition. So I don’t run and I don’t sign up for the races.
Life’s race on the other hand? Yep, I’m signed up. Got my t-shirt. Have been given a number. Am currently on the track. Am running with the best of them.
Somedays it’s a simple power walk. Other times I struggle to stay in God’s shadow and ahead of my enemy. I retire some evenings with blisters, hurting knees and scrapes where I’ve fallen. Sweat. Weariness. A promise.
A promise? You bet…
Malinda Edgell
Illinois
PRAY TOGETHER: Remember a true witness can be silent—actions speak louder than words (1 Peter 3:1).
Special request: Pray that many believers would volunteer in cleanup efforts this weekend throughout storm-ravaged areas. Ask God how you can be involved.
