Marathoning Faith
This morning I ran a 5k. I blinked and it was over. It was a fun run, and I'm glad that I did it.
Recently, I've been reading Ecclesiastes. King Solomon in his most existential self, reminded me that "two are better than one, for they can help each other succeed (eccl. 4:9 NLT)" - as i had a running partner who has kept me encouraged. As a "marathoner", there has been times that I hadn't thought that I needed a running partner - but the verse is true! Even on three miles, It helped tremendously to have a running mate!
This got me thinking about change. Seriously. Sounds weird. But running, training, and especially marathon has stages. I found this post on Great Leadership - and it really affirms the fact that if we understand stages of change, it can help us "marathon" through!
I'm finding that it is easy to be distracted. And I need faith. I need help from others. I need to understand the many stages.
Labels: change, marathoning, running partner
Healing Words
Proverbs. It's been said they are Rules for Living. I believe Proverbs are all around us - and lived out of us - I suppose that's why I like this photo to the right. To write a proverb on one's body, implies the desire to know it/live it/be it.
This week, I've been sick, physically down with a cold. A cold that came to me from a visitor via Amsterdam - a sort of euro-bug - but none the less a bug that I caught. I know that words are powerful. That is why I have this blog. Dunami - a powerful word from 'without' or above - I want to live powerful, Godly, words. I came across a Proverb this week that struck me odd.
- "...pay attention to what I say.
Listen carefully to my words.
Don't lose sight of them.
Let them penetrate deep into your heart,
for they bring life to those who find them,
and healing to their whole body.
Guard your heart above all else,
for it determines the course of your life." Poverbs 4:20 - 23 NLT
First, I'm struck by the confirmation of "dunami", itself. Be careful to remember good and wise words for they have a power... a power to bring life and healing! I'm like most, I suppose, when I get sick - I get down. I'm listening to "low" words. This verse reminded me to "guard my heart" and listen to wise, life-giving words.
Again.. another proverb that strikes the same chord:
"Don't be impressed wiht your own wisdom,
Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil.
Then you will have healing in your body
and strength for your bones." Proverbs 3:7-8 NLT
Labels: healing, power of words, Proverbs
