Run your own race!

Inspiration

By Christine Webb

When I was first beginning to run, man oh man, it was hard! There were times I felt I couldn't even run down my own block. Step by step and block by block I kept trying.

But I'll never forget a conversation I had with a friend one Saturday morning during a long run, years ago, that really pushed and encouraged me. I hope it encourages you in life as well.

If you've ever run a race -- a 5k, 10k, half marathon or marathon -- you know, when the race starts, people rush to take off and you can quickly get caught up in the excitement and energy of it all! You feel like you could fly and you want to keep up with everyone. Hold on!

The advice my friend gave me was wise and something I will never forget. Run your own race. Don't compare yourself to others. Many people will rush off at the start and it will be hard not to go with them, but you have to run your own race at your own pace.

Later on, I remember my first big race and I remembered those wise words. It was so hard at first to keep my own pace. People were flying past me! But guess what? My friend was right! Around mile 9, 10, 11, and 12 I began to pass those people who rushed off in the beginning! I was shocked! But at the same time it energized and confirmed to me how important it is to run your own race!

Are you running your own race in life or are you looking at where others are?

It's so hard sometimes I know, but don't look at where others are in life. You may see some folks getting engaged and think, "Why isn't this happening to me?"

You may see others announce they are going to have a baby and you think, "When is it going to be my time?"

Or someone may post they have a great new job and you are struggling.

It's hard.

Run your own race.

Remember and be encouraged today -- God can change things in an instant!

Keep your eyes on Jesus and the rest will fall into place.

Believe it and be encouraged today! Don't give up Hope!

1 Corinthians 9:24 "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it."

Christine Webb is the Lead Pastor at St. John's United Methodist Church in Ocala.