Two days ago, I signed up to run my second marathon. I am still working my way back from an injury
in May, and the combination of asthma and humid weather has not boosted my
confidence in my ability to run. So
yesterday morning, I already began doubting my decision and if I could really
pull this thing off – for the second time this year. Will it just be “too much”?
As I continued cleaning through old papers, I came across
the program from the marathon I ran in March.
I was about to toss it, when I realized it had a calendar within, and I
thought one of the girls may want it.
Then I noticed the inspirational quotes.
“There will be days
you don’t think you can run a marathon. There will be a lifetime of knowing you
have.” – Unknown
Just what I needed to hear.
So, I took a break from cleaning, and went out for a short 3 mile
run. When I run, my thoughts become
clearer. I sort out my questions and
fears. Again, just what I needed and one
of the many reasons I love to run.
I started thinking about how far I had come since I began
running just over 2 years ago. It is
easy to focus on my weaknesses, to get depressed and doubt my abilities. But then, I remember this…in my weakness, He
is made strong. When I run, I don’t
focus on my weakness, but on my strength in Him, who provides all the strength
I need (Phil. 4:13). And strength not
only to run, but to “do life” – everything He has called me to do, He will
provide the strength to do it.
The accomplishment of running a marathon will last beyond
this year. Whenever I encounter hard times,
I can draw strength from knowing that He pulls me through – He always has. Sure, it won’t be easy. I’ll have to train through muggy weather, and
plan long runs around our busy schedule. I'll have to get up early and say "no" to late night fun with friends. But if it was easy, everyone would do it. If it was easy, the joy at the end would not
be as sweet. And so I am reminded of
another favorite quote: “I didn’t ask for easy. I asked for possible.” And through Him who gives me strength, ALL things
are possible!!
There are many days I don’t think I can run a marathon. Many days I don’t believe I have actually
done it before. Many days I doubt; I
fear. Many days I feel weak. Those are the days my focus is on ME. Those are the days I need to lace up, get out
there, and change my focus to HIM. Many
days I don’t feel like running, but I do it anyway. And I never regret it.
