A New Beginning

"I find rest in God, only he can save me. He is my rock and salvation. He is my defender, I will not be defeated." Psalm 62:1-2.

I read today that before we move into the new year we should thank God for everything he has done for us this year.

2013 was a year of change for me when it came to my running career. In 2012, my health issues were finally brought to light and after sitting down with my doctor a plan was formulated and then executed. Slowly things began to change. But the changes didn't really start to change until early 2013 with the running of the Houston Half Marathon and Woodlands Half Marathon where I finally started running at my marks from a few years ago.

The biggest change I made though was the decision to change training programs and to also get back into the coaching game. The dream of running a program where faith and family had a big emphasis was finally going to happen. It was also the opportunity to put faith in my Lord Jesus Christ at the front and to help others strengthen their faith as well.

God always opens doors for us when he feels we are ready for the next challange. This was one of them. The first leap of faith for me was leading a prayer before our Saturday runs and group races. To be honest with you, I was very nervous and fearful because I really didn't know how people would react. But I also know that in those moments the power of the Holy Spirit takes over. The result was overwhelming! It's gotten to the point now that people in our group expect us to pray before our big runs.

"Anyone who trusts in him will never be disappointed." 1 Peter 2:6b

My struggle as it is with almost everybody, is learning to trust God in all my endeavers. We have a tendency to want to drive rather than let God do it for us. The only thing we control is our attitude and perception. As it says in Proverbs 3:5 "Trust the Lord with all your heart and don't depend on your own understanding."

The next big challange for me was training for the Houston Marathon in January 2014. I haven't done a marathon since 2010, primarily because I really don't enjoy the distance. But once again I sensed and felt that it was time to give it another shot, especially since I'm turning 50 three days before the race. How many 50 year olds in this country can say they ran 26.2 miles? I think the percentage is very small.

My new coach is awesome, he knows exactly what I'm capable of. He understands what motivates me and he knows when to push and when to back off. I honestly think he is the best running coach I have ever had. And if I can some day be even half the coach he is it will be a huge accomplishment.

Yes, God is good. I know that come January 19th, I will finish my 15th marathon. We all have defining moments in our life, God puts them there so we can become stronger in our faith and also show others how He is the only way to true happiness in life.

The gift of running is from God and I feel very lucky to have the ability to run. I know that it keeps me healthy and strong. I am so thankful!

What lies ahead in 2014. I will set my goals, but I also know that everyday is a adventure. The one thing I have is that faith that God is taking care of me. Jeremiah 29:11 says it best "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and to not harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future."

So rejoice and give thanks to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ that he loves you and wants nothing but good for you. I tell people this all the time. "Our dreams are not even close to what God has planned for us."

Dream big! Happy New Year and I hope ALL of you have a blessed 2014.

Rich