It’s taken me many years to admit that I am kinda-sort-of a runner. And now, in my current season as more of a pregnant waddler, somewhere deep down, I realize I actually miss running. Especially considering that just a little over a year ago I ran a full marathon and didn’t die.
So whenever I can, I like to support other runners on this quest– especially ones that love Jesus. Today, it’s an honor for me to share a guest post by Lisa Preuett, announcing the release of her new book for Jesus-runners like me. Grab a copy and let’s hit the road. ~SGK
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“What’s your pace?”
This is a common question we hear frequently among runners. It’s also a number runners must sometimes enter on race registration forms. It’s easy to obsess about exactly how long it takes one to cover the distance of a mile.
Early in my running journey, I quickly realized that everyone runs a different pace. Some bolt out like a flash of lightning, determined to win the race. Others fall into the “back of the pack” category, bringing up the rear. And in between these two extremes are a myriad of other paces.
Could I run at a faster pace at the start of a long race? Absolutely! But could I maintain that pace throughout the rest of the race? Not a chance. If I started out sprinting with all my might, I’d quickly drain myself of the energy I need to reach the finish line.
My determination is focused on finishing the race at my own unique pace, not trying to keep up with someone else.
Maybe you’re not a runner and can’t relate to the race environment. Perhaps you have no intentions of ever lacing up running shoes.
But runner or not, you are running a race.
In Hebrews 12:1-2, Paul depicts the Christian life as a race. He urges us to “run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus.”
The Christian life is a long distance race we are called to live one step at a time. There are obstacles. Hills to climb. Sometimes we are running quickly at a smooth pace. Other times we hit the wall and feel like giving up before we reach the finish line.
Jesus started the race with us and is also waiting at the finish line. No medal or cash prize could ever come close to the eternal joy w will experience when we see Him face to face.
There are so many powerful parallels between running and our faith journey with Jesus! They paint vivid pictures of what we encounter in this race called life.
My book, Embracing The Race: 40 Devotions for the Runner’s Soul, will awaken your mind to these parallels. You’ll be equipped with scripture, encouraged to persevere and inspired with determination. You’ll be challenged to plunge deeper in your walk with God!
Each day’s reading will give you a peek into the runner’s world, a fresh Biblical insight, practical life application, soul-searching reflections and a heart-felt prayer.
Kyle Idleman, best-selling author of Not a Fan says this about the book:
“Honest and fun to read, you’ll find encouragement and challenge that come from Bible passages and through the language of a runner. If you’re a runner, you’ll love this book. If you’re not a runner, there is plenty here for you, too.”
Embracing The Race releases TODAY, November 14, 2016 and is available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle version. Click here to snag your copy.
You can connect with Lisa Preuett on her blog, Rest for the Soul.
