It has been said that less than one percent of the world’s population has ever run a marathon. In only six days, I am poised to join that group. Despite months of physical training, I am struggling to enjoy the “taper”–the period of respite before race day. On top of this, I had a discouraging run on Saturday. My lethargic legs were certain that I had mistakenly replaced my nine ounce running shoes with 19 pound bricks. I headed out intending to pound out 13 miles. I trudged and lumbered through a disappointing eight. Pull it together, Shannon.
What was going wrong here? During the past four months, I had run anywhere from 25 to 40 miles each week. My body was ready. Fear and doubt had reared their ugly faces. Confidence. Shaken.
The next day, God stepped in.
It was Sunday and I stood among the congregation at Lifestream Church bellowing out praise and worship songs, feeling sorry for those in front of me forced to endure my tune-deaf renditions. The next song introduced was among my favorites and a mainstay on my playlist: Forever Reign by Hillsong. As the words began to pass through my lips, my eyes welled up and I fought the tears. My hands started to tremble and I held tight to the chair in front of me in an effort to hide the emotion. “You are peace when my fear is crippling…I’m running to Your arms…The riches of Your love will always be enough…Nothing compares to Your embrace…You are here…In Your presence I’m made whole…Of all else I’m letting go.” I had heard the words hundreds, if not thousands of times, yet on this day they resonated and moved me more than ever. Following the song, Pastor Jim arose to read scripture and lead the prayer. As if peering directly into my heart, he read a single verse. Proverbs 16:9– “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” How many times need I be reminded? Let God take control, Shannon.
Later that day, God and I had a great five-mile-long talk. He graciously agreed to accept my anxiety and even offered to carry me when I am weak.
On Sunday, October 20, I will not be worshiping at Lifestream but will instead spend four hours on God’s great race course. Please lift me and all of the runners in prayer.
Powerful Power Songs:
Forever Reign – Hillsong Live
Lift Me Up – The Afters
Overcomer – Mandisa
Whom Shall I Fear – Chris Tomlin
Lord, I Need You – Matt Maher
wifeExpectancy 