Why do people quit?! Because it is easier than not quitting? Or, is it because we lose focus? Forget what we are doing and why we are doing it? This is a journey of a thousand miles (literally if you add all the miles of swimming cycling and running over the course of this training). Every time I train I enjoy it! It’s like practicing for a huge show! Instead of training for an Ironman, I am practicing for it (reference to the book Chi Running). Let me make it clear, I have no intention of quitting. I am just going to acknowledge for a second that this training is demanding yet fun! Long, yet desirable. More important, it gives me an opportunity to share my faith and why I am training for this event.
I forgot about that! Lost focus for a brief second! And in that moment, I learned why we need friends. Gary is someone I have studied the Bible with, well since I’ve studied the Bible (8 months). He is undoubtedly a friend and reminded me what friends are for. I was at church this past Sunday and didn’t realize I have was venting to him about the training and how challenging it is! How uncertain I am about being able to complete this (some days I know I can do it…some days I don’t feel so sure). He emailed me just a few minutes ago with a Bible verse I have heard numerous times! Somehow though, it slipped my mind and I needed to be reminded. And THAT’s what friends are for!
“1: Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2: Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3: Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” Hebrews 12:1-3 (NIV)
How easy it is, when times get tough, to feel like we are alone. Sometimes, it takes a friend to remind you, me, us…we are NEVER alone! Thanks for the reminder Gary!
Thank You Father for your Son, Your grace, and Your love!
This is very special. We do need friends...in all thw shapes and sizes and colors of the rainbow that they may appear....God uses the people in our lives to encourage us, to sharpen us, to hold us accountable, to remind us of what is important, and...to bring us joy! I'm glad that you have a friend like Gary.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your faith and encouraging the rest of us to remember what is important in this life.