35 years ago I began running as a way to stay in shape. It has been a wise decision… Great time to pray, think, relieve stress, and solve problems. Sustained energy, weight control, and overall physical fitness are byproducts as well. I sustain a regimen of 3-5 miles – 5 or 6 days a week. Have run a bunch of 10Ks (6.2 miles), 4 marathons, and participated in 2 “Hood to Coast” relay teams (198 miles). Lord willing going to run “Capital to Coast Relay” (223 miles) with a team from Trinity Church in October. Oh yeah, I’m 69, and to celebrate my birthday this year I ran 69 miles the week of my birthday (see pic). (I’m not fast… just stubborn!) Paying attention to my physical fitness has paid off… it’s been a wise investment! … But regardless of all of that, one day I’ll die…Thought about all of that this morning when I read the following during “Coffee with the Lord”…
“Train yourself for godliness! For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come!” (1 Timothy 4:7-8 ESV)
I run to take care of this body of mine so I am able to serve the Lord with maximum efficiency until He calls me home. My “time with Him” – my “Spiritual training” – does more! It equips me for effective service for the Lord here and now… But it does more! The benefits transcend this life and are an investment in “the life to come! I recommend BOTH… Physical and Spiritual training!! I’m going to sustain both!!
