Wednesday, June 1, 2011

The Importance of Perseverance

It's been a little while since I linked up with Shell's 'Pour Your Heart Out' - I've missed it! And I'm glad I can join in again today.


This week, it's crunch time. Just a few days left until Dam to Dam - the 20k my sister-in-law and I have been training for. I thought this week I'd have to deal with nerves, but that otherwise I'd be fine. Unfortunately, it hasn't turned out that way.  Instead, I've not been at 100% (like I hoped I'd be).

Last week, I hit my goals and felt good (albeit sore). I hit that 10.5 mile mark and thought I was well on my way to being ready for 12.4.  But then this week - OH this week!

Monday, my sis and I planned to try for a 12 mile run. I didn't even make it to 3.5 miles. I felt sick enough I had to stop and sit down - which never happens to me. I was beyond discouraged - but my awesome sis and running buddy encouraged me every step - reminding me of all the goals we'd already hit.

So yesterday we decided to try again and.... We. Did. It.  I'm still in shock this morning!  Now, I still wasn't at 100%. I did have to stop and take a break (which I don't normally have to do) but then I was able to get back up and finish it.  WE FINISHED IT!

I can tell you this: I wouldn't have been able to do it without my sister-in-law. Amber was there to encourage me and support me through every step. She didn't give up on me and didn't let me give up on myself. I am so incredibly thankful for her!

And I can tell you my Lord carried me through the whole thing. I prayed through the majority of our run and if I hadn't - I would have stopped. The verses He kept bringing to my mind were these:

"But those who hope in the LORD 
   will renew their strength. 
They will soar on wings like eagles; 
   they will run and not grow weary, 
   they will walk and not be faint."
Isaiah 40:31

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.
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus,
the author and perfecter of our faith
Hebrews 12:1b-2a

Now, there are just 3 days left until Dam to Dam. I won't be the fastest runner out there on Saturday. I won't be the strongest. I won't be the best. But I'll be consistant. I'll be faithful. I won't give up.

And I'd venture to saw those things are more important than being the fastest or the best.

Join us and 'Pour Your Heart' out this week!
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As a little "bonus" for you all today, click HERE for a sneak peek of my new blog design! (all done by my amazing husband) The new "look" will be making its debut soon!

6 comments:

  1. That is amazing! I'm sure you will do great this weekend!

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  2. Good for you. You will be amazing I am sure.

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  3. I think having a partner in this is so important as you've said. I hope you are proud of your accomplishment no matter how fast you go.

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  4. I pray during my workouts too. The more I keep a constant prayer on my lips through anything in my day, the happier I am.

    Good luck this weekend!

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