Never Alone

"Be strong and brave. Don't be frightened, because the Lord your God will go with you. He will not leave you or forget you." Deuteronomy 31:6

Last week I wrote about coming back to my love, running and coaching. A lot of you know a little about me but I thought today I would tell you a little bit my story and how I came to the faith I have today. My faith is everything and I strongly believe that it applies to every aspect of my life.

So here we go! I accepted the Lord Jesus Christ into my life at the innocent age of 17. I was a junior in high school and had joined a high school christian youth group named "Young Life." The youth pastor Nick would meet with me every Wednesday morning for breakfast to talk about my life and how accepting Jesus into my heart would change everything. So one night, in my room I got down on my knees and prayed, I asked God to forgive me for my sins because Jesus had given his life so that I may have everlasting life.

At that very moment, I felt lifted up. I literally felt something enter me and my heart was filled with joy, it was one of the most incredible moments in my life.

Fast forward 26 years. It was 2009 and I had just gotten laid off from my job, I was very worried about what the future held for me. I was a beaten man because professionally and personally my confidence in myself was at an all time low. Then at the suggestion of a friend, he recommended I check "The Between Jobs Ministry" so I attended a meeting and it put everything in perspective.

In this meeting they talked about how God would never leave me and that he wanted nothing but good for me. The bible verse they quoted said it all.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

I broke down in tears. I felt so ashamed that I had forgotten about Him and what he could do for me. So at that moment I asked for forgiveness and pledged to never put him second in my life.

I was out of work for 6-months but over that time God helped me to become the spiritual leader of my family. My confidence in myself professionally came back and he opened doors for me that I never thought would open. Over that time he provided for us, we never struggled financially, he provided for all our needs.

Today things couldn't be better. Our family is stronger than ever. My career is at an all time high and physically I am in great shape. I feel so good that I'm going to run the Houston Marathon this year. He has opened up a new door for me with the coming start of the Volte Endurance Training program.

Are there days when things are hard? Yes.

But the differance between now and five years ago is I know he wants nothing but good for me and my family. I also know in my heart that his plans for me are far greater than I can EVER imagine. In fact, I told Billy this just last month. We are thinking too small, God's plans for our group are limitless! We're focused on our little group here in the Woodlands, but God wants it to impact everybody!

When I reflect back on that faithful night 32 years ago, I realize he NEVER left me and over that time he was watching over me and protecting me. The only regret I have is that I didn't realize that. But that's ok.

I'm so excited about the next 9-months. I can't wait to get to know of each of you and hear your stories.  I truely believe every step of the way, God will guide me in leading our group. I know there will be some tough days but I also know this;

"If God is for us, NO ONE can defeat us." Romans 8:31

So hang on friends, this is going to be a great journey.

Have a blessed day, and I'll see you out there on the road!

Coach Rich