The Joys of Running...

(*Meant to post this a while back! Enjoy!)

This morning I had one of those amazing long runs where I didn't even realize what mile I was on or what pace I was going. It's amazing what a beautiful sunrise and the opportunity to talk with God for 16 miles can do for a person. Running is such a great time to solve your problems. Whatever you're going through, no matter how hard, can be reflected upon during a run. I personally use a lot of my running time praying or just talking to God about good or bad things that are going on in my life at the time. This morning I had a lot on my mind; mostly about my future, where I want to go in my life, and who I want to be included along the journey. I kept thinking about these verses: 

Romans 12:2

New International Version (NIV) "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."

Proverbs 3:5-6

New International Version (NIV) "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

I realized that no matter what others may think is right for me, I need to do what will make me happy. I know what I want to be included in my future, but it's not up to me. God knows what my plan is and it is my duty as a child of God to trust in his plan. Our society has a picture perfect view of what everyone's life should be like. I am challenging myself to stray away from what society thinks I should do and let God stay in control because ultimately every decision is His. He knows what my life will become and He has placed certain people, experiences, and occurrences in my life for a reason. They will all lead to new and exciting opportunities. My challenge for myself is to let go and let God be in control always. I want to love more, laugh more, and let my guard down more. Life is way too short to pass up an opportunity God is giving you. Don't let others decide your future. Talk it over with God and let Him show you the way. 

Place God first with every decision!

-Lolo-

USA Olympic Training Center (Colorado location)

                             D2 Outdoor Track and Field National Championships with my very best friend! :)

Verses for the new year: 

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.

Proverbs 3: 5-8 (Something I am working on!)

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the LORD and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your body, And refreshment to your bones.

So, it's the new year! What will you change, start, or stop doing to benefit yourself and others this year? Why not pick up a piece of fruit instead of that bag of chips...or put down the coke and drink your eight glasses of water a day? There are so many things we can do to make ourselves "better" or "healthier." We don't have to change the way we eat or treat our bodies alone, we can also change how we treat others and how we want to be viewed each day. Forgiveness can be hard, but maybe that's something that will change your life or another person's life. It can change the way you feel, act, and are portrayed as a person. Remember to talk to God about your problems and ask him for the guidance and the knowledge to know what decisions to make; whether it be what to eat each day, how to exercise, or how to handle a tough situation. He is the ultimate decision-maker and will give you the signs on how to change your life this year, you just have the tough job of watching for and acting upon those signs. Whatever you decide to change or add to your life this year, ask God first. He will handle all your problems if you let Him.

Stay healthy and happy!

-LOLO-