Training in Righteousness - FCA EnduranceSample

Run with Purpose

Ready

"So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I might be disqualified." -- 1 Corinthians 9:26-27

Set

When experienced runners and athletes prepare for a season, they often start with defining the “why” or their purpose for training and competing. They assess their current fitness, their goals, and what their motives are. They develop a training plan with routines and rhythms that will lead to a successful season, achieving their goals. They prioritized their life, schedules, and activities centered on that purpose. Focus, discipline, and careful execution are required.

A runner has a far greater purpose than their general fitness or best 5K or marathon time. God has given each of us the gift of fitness and the passion and ability to run for Him and His glory. Prov 19:21 says, “Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.” When we grasp the greater purpose, our mindset shifts away from ourselves to our Almighty God. Every training run or race becomes an opportunity to focus our attention on God, and then it becomes an act of worship, bringing Him glory.

Are you lacking joy and fulfillment in your running, or has your running stalled or hit a plateau? Maybe it’s time to reassess. Consider taking God with you on your next run. Before you put on your running shoes, kneel before Him and acknowledge His presence, power, and provision. Our purpose is not to simply run but to run to Jesus and bring Him glory. When we realize that God created us to glorify Him, and we start to act in ways that fulfill that purpose, then we will begin to experience an intensity of joy and fulfillment in the Lord that we have never known before.

This greater purpose is to follow Jesus Christ, and He has assigned to us the responsibility of carrying on His mission. Just as Jesus gave himself to God to carry out His work, He desires His disciples to give themselves to God for the task of spreading His message of love and salvation throughout the world. Our community is the mission field. Let’s run with purpose. Let’s run to Jesus!

Go

• Are you experiencing this greater purpose and higher calling? Why or why not?
• What adjustments do you need to make in your thoughts, actions, or priorities?
• What does it look like for you to compete for Christ?
• Are you confident that you know and are fulfilling God’s purpose for your life?

Workout

Psalm 33:11, 1 Peter 2:9, Ephesians 2:10

Overtime

“Father, I surrender my heart and my will to You. May Your kingdom come, and Your will be done as You lead me to a life of greater purpose. Here I am, Lord, send me. Use my influence, relationships, and running to impart Your Truth and grace to those You place in my path. In Jesus' name, amen."