Tuesday, August 5, 2008

The Looooooong Middle

I am not a runner, and I won't claim to be one. But, I have run a 10k (6.2 miles). Once. Illegally, but that is a different story. Actually the whole thing is an interesting story, but I try not to be too interesting on this blog so I will save it for another day.

The point I was trying to get to is that there is this part in a run I think of as that loooooong middle part. It is exciting when you start the race and everyone is cheering and thinking about how awesome it is going to be. It is also exciting to see the finish line at the end of the race and realize that you are almost done. But, there is also this time in the middle where you are just running. One foot in front of the other, and repeat, and repeat, and repeat. You have a goal, you know there is a destination. You may not be able to see it, but you know it is there and that if you stay faithful to keep putting one foot in front of the other that you will GET there. But, sometimes that long middle part can be tough to go through.

It is during these times that I find it very helpful to think about my history. During the times when I begin questioning the plans God has for my present I try to think about the way He has revealed His plans for me in the past. As I look backwards I am reminded of God's faithfulness, His goodness, and His ability to always get it right. That helps me to trust that He is still faithful, He is still good, and if I will only trust Him... He will get it right this time too.

One thing about the loooooong middle. If you are not there right now, you will be soon. You cannot be a part of an epic adventure without a long middle part. So, when you find yourself in one again, take time to look back and let it build your faith again as you keep running forward.

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