Day 7

Yesterday I ran my first of many weekly long runs of my 12 week training program. I ran four miles for the first time in about five years. I have to admit the distance intimidated me when I was mapping my route. I didn't realize how far four miles really is until I saw it on a map! I started my run slow because I knew I would get tired. I also started later than normal at 11:45 a.m. and the sun was high and hot so I wanted to be careful not to overexert or overheat myself.

My brother was the subject of most of my prayers yesterday. I prayed that God would help him realize how special he is and that He would help him find his path. Toward the last half of my run my prayer switched focus to "God please help me finish" and "God please help my legs find the strength they need to get me home." Very few times have I actually heard God speak to me but yesterday I did. I heard three things yesterday during my prayers; "I am with you", "I will not leave you" and "you will finish." Maybe I heard Him because I was actually listening or maybe I heard Him because my prayers were desperate. Either way, it was an awesome feeling to communicate with God.

I was surprised at how good I felt after finishing my run yesterday. I was very tired but I also felt a sense of accomplishment and inner peace. I will still be intimidated by my long runs because each week for the next nine weeks I will add one mile to my long run. However, after yesterday, I know "I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength." ~ Philippians 4:13