Faith To Endure

        It is has been on my "to-do" list all week to write a blog post about my 70.3 training.  A year ago I made a verbal agreement to my friend that I would join her in doing a half-Ironman triathlon sometime this year (1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, and 13.1 mile run); a month ago I was good to my word and signed up for the Kansas City 70.3 in June! The task is nothing short of daunting to me, but also one I KNOW I can do.  Today's church service was the last of a series on faith, titled Faith To Endure (from start to finish), which is also perfect to apply to my training, so this post is going to parallel the notes from the service.  I hope like me, it will challenge you in your faith and other areas of your life.

WHEN YOU FEEL LIKE GIVING UP:

• Remember those before you. Whenever I begin to doubt my abilities I quickly think of this video, and the story behind it, and am once again am inspired more than ever.

• Remove any distractions.  For tri training the biggest distraction is self-doubt...I KNOW this is something I can accomplish and am taking it one day/training workout at a time, keeping my focus on the finish line.  I can already feel the victory.
• Run the race. Enough said!

          "...and run with endurance the race set out for us" Hebrews 12:1

          " 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

            endurance = steady DETERMINATION to keep going.  There will be points in my training in 

            which I will "hit a wall," but it is during those time that I will push through with determination

            and dedication.

• Christ (finish line) focused.  I can't explain to you the emotions and feeling of accomplishment that comes with finishing such an event, but it truly makes the whole journey worthwhile.
• Resist discouragement.  Anything worthwhile in life takes dedication and determination.
• Claim the grace to persevere
• REMEMBER YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Not only am I blessed to have great friends/training partners to join me on workouts, long-distance training partners to support and encourage me, and the support of family and friends, I also have the strength of the Lord on my side.  And with Him, all things are possible.  

I am looking forward to continuing to reach my goal through endurance, persistence and determination.