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Run for the Red, White, & Blue 5k!

"Each time he said, 'My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.' So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me."
2 Corinthians 12:9

Well, today was the day. I ran my first 5k! I unfortunately had to walk part of it, due to the heat and humidity, but I finished strong with a time of 34:33 and a mile pace of 11:07. 

This was the first time I've ever run/jogged/walked over 2.5 miles. So just completing 3.1 miles in itself was an accomplishment! Even though I had to walk part of the way, I'm proud of myself for listening to my body's cues and not pushing myself too hard and getting injured. 

Most of all, I'm so thankful for the close relationship I've developed with the Lord throughout this journey. While I was at first tempted to quote Philippians 4:13 on this triumphant day, I felt led by the Holy Spirit instead to reflect on 2 Corinthians 12:9. 

In the last ten weeks, I have realized more than ever before that the Lord's grace is all I need. I don't need the approval or acceptance of others. I'm finally beginning to see my worth through God's eyes, and that is so unbelievably freeing for me. I wholeheartedly believe that if I had attempted to run this race any sooner than today, I would have felt defeated for walking part of the way. Instead, I realize that I set a goal, dedicated myself to accomplishing it, and followed through. Whether I ran the entire way or walked, I listened when the Holy Spirit convicted me to get off of the couch. Following God's Will for my life is what matters most. 

Never before have I understood so completely the power in letting Christ work through  my weaknesses. I'm not exaggerating when I say that ten weeks ago, I couldn't jog one full minute without being out of breath. My physical health was my weakest area and so it was only through the Lord's power that I was able to make it this far.

I feel like I can relate so well to the apostle Paul now. I want to boast, not about my success with running, but about my weakness. I want to give God all the glory for taking me this far. Without Him, I never would have had the strength to get out of bed those mornings and put on my running shoes. Without the Lord, I never would have had the strength to push through the pain and finish my workouts every day. I am not that strong, or determined, on my own. It was entirely God's power working through my weakness, and for that, I want to boast in His Name! 

Although the first race is finished, my journey has only just begun. I run my second 5k next weekend and after that, my 10k training begins! But most of all, I intend to continually grow closer to my Lord and Savior.

"Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come."
1 Timothy 4:8


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