Step of Faith

This morning I went for an 8-mile run. It was a solid run and it felt amazing! To some people, this sounds absolutely crazy. To others, it sounds impossible. It may feel like they could never run 8 miles let alone a half mile.  I used to think it was crazy and impossible too. Then God got a hold of my heart and asked me to step out in faith. Here’s my story about how it all began…

Something came alive in me

In January of 2013, I attended the closing ceremony for a 40-day challenge the ladies were involved in at our church. As part of that time, we had to run upstairs, run around the track that is above our sanctuary, and come down to the stage. My first thought was “I’m not a runner, I don’t want to do this. I’ll just walk.” But, the competitive spirit inside me came out and I ran anyway. While running on that track, something came alive in me. It was awesome and I felt so free! In that moment that God stirred in my heart a desire to run. God called me out and asked me to take a step of faith and start running.

My Knee

I wish I could say I obeyed right away. I went back and forth with God on it though. “Are you really sure you want me to run?” He always answered with a “Yes.” I want to give you a little background so you understand my question a little more. Over 10 years ago, I injured my right knee on a trampoline. It healed up but then a couple years later, I re-injured it somehow. After going to doctors, having an MRI and a seeing physical therapist, it was found that my kneecap doesn’t track properly. This leads to inflammation and constant pain. Going up and down stairs can be unbearable sometimes.

My excuse

Over the past three years, I have received chiropractic care and now wear orthotics in my shoes to help with this pain. My doctor’s recommended that running not be my main exercise. This became my excuse to run. But, God had other plans. And I am so thankful He did! In July of 2013, I began my running journey. I started with the Couch to 5K program and used a running coach to help me with my form.  It has been an amazing journey ever since.

My husband

You see, I never thought I would be a runner. But, here I am as a testimony that when God calls you to something, He will equip you. God will also provide amazing people along the way to cheer you on. My husband Jonathan has been my biggest fan and encouraged me so much to pursue my dream of running. I am forever grateful for his support.

Running Buddies

I can honestly say I would not be the runner I am without my running buddies. They have challenged me, pushed me, encouraged me, have been with me through hard runs, and prayed for me as I battled an injury. My running friends have trained with me for my first half marathon and several of them took time out of their very busy lives to run it with me. I am who I am because of my awesome friends and running buddies.

Life is like running

Life is a lot like running. You need a coach. The ultimate coach, God, who knows all about you and calls you to step out in faith.  A support system that will cheer for you along the way is important. People who will challenge you to go to the next level are also key to life. These friends will pour into you and believe you can do it even when you feel like giving up.

What is God is calling you to do that seems impossible? I want to encourage you to go for it! He will be with you every step of the way. I am who I am because I chose to obey.

Here’s too many more runs!

    The finish line at my first half marathon with one of my best friend’s Marcie

  September 27, 2014 with my amazing friends Lori, Lael and Marcie at my first half marathon

  My awesome friend Jenny who poured so much courage into me when I felt like giving up in my early days of running

*Originally posted 3/4/15