"The Running Plan"

My exercise mantra has always been "When you feel like exercising, lie down until the feeling goes away". In spite of that, an article called "The Running Plan" caught my eye this week.  It was written to give beginning runners some strategies and to remind seasoned runners of some of the basics. As I was reading, I couldn't help but make analogies to the Christian life, which the Apostle Paul compared to running a race. Here are a few of the author's points:
1. The hardest part about running is the decision to start. Ignore those who tried but gave up, decide to make the commitment, and watch the exciting changes that begin to occur in your life.
2.  Keep your goals realistic. You're not going to magically go from couch potato to marathon runner. Huge expectations often lead to frustration, feelings of failure, and eventual quitting.  Negative thoughts destroy motivation.
3.  Pay attention to your form. The right posture has a lot to do with the body's ability to move efficiently and comfortably! Slouching often occurs as you get tired. And keep your eyes focusing on the road ahead. Looking back or away can easily & quickly lead to disaster!
4.  Gradually increase your duration. Check your breathing to determine your speed and distance. Injuries occur when you push too hard.
5.  Listen to your body. It will let you know when you're doing too much too soon. Fatigue undermines your best efforts.
6.  Be kind to yourself. Don't compare yourself with others. They may always be able to do more...
7.  Find a running buddy - it's safer and provides motivation but be sure to work at your own pace regardless of anyone else's prodding.
8.  Experienced runners may have valuable tips but always apply them to where you are at your personal level of activity.
9.  Focus on your smallest successes. Even if all you ever do is walk, you're better off then when you were sitting. You're doing good things for your body and your health.  Keep it up!! Even reward your mini-milestones - just remember #2 & keep the goals realistic!
10. Get out there. The old Indian proverb says the hardest & longest journey begins with a single step.  My father-in-law's sales adage correlates, "The hardest door to exit is your own."

Do you see the amazing Christian life applications? You decide to follow Christ, making the commitment to live for Him, regardless of others' opinions. Instantly there are changes that begin to occur. New goals & activities begin to emerge and you incorporate them into your life. Bible reading and prayer time become important, but don't expect to read and understand the whole Bible in a week, or instantly become a mighty prayer warrior. Work slowly, as the Spirit leads, to replace old patterns and habits with new ones, and keep your focus on Christ. Ignore distractions or the temptation to "look back" at past mistakes. At times you may be frustrated with your slow progress but keep on! The Christian life is a marathon, not a sprint. Don't worry about small trip-ups. That's what 1 John 1:9 (God's forgiveness) is for. Watch your witness because others are, but don't compare your spiritual progress or ministry with anyone else. God doesn't! He designed a wonderful life specifically for YOU.  Find partners who will encourage and support you, keeping you accountable. Listen to those with more experience, taking suggestions as they apply to you, sifting everything through the Word for credibility! When you begin to feel discouraged, recall how far you've come and the wonderful changes you've made. But most importantly of all, Just Do It. The hardest part is surrendering to God & making the commitment. Once you're determined to live for Christ, He will help you with all the rest!!