Running the Race

1 Corinthians 9:24 - "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize."

This morning my dog Maggie and I were out for our usual 5:30 a.m. run. I was feeling pretty good -- arms pumping, feet shuffling along, breathing steady. Moreover, I was enjoying being out in nature and listening to the birds sing while watching the sun rise and the moon set.

Yep, I was feeling pretty good... that is until I got passed by some real runners. They nodded as they flew past us. Suddenly my run didn't seem so great.

Do you ever feel that way as a Christian? You're going along with your normal relationship with God until you meet someone who pushes themselves just a bit more than you. Then your faith practice seems a little less amazing.

But as in running, we can "train" harder in our faith to become stronger Christians. Could you read a bit more scripture each day? How about praying with a more focused awareness? Might you be able to volunteer an extra hour each week -- or start donating your time to a worthy cause?

Soon -- like a runner who has trained for a tough, hilly course -- you'll be better prepared to handle the ups and downs of life.