Rainbows and Butterflies

I had a different run this afternoon.  I had planned to run 9 miles after work but when I got home a storm was starting.  The sky was black and the radar was ominous.  I decided I was going to get my workout in regardless of the conditions so I headed downstairs to the treadmill.  After about three miles I came upstairs to tell my wife something and she said why are you running down stairs when it is beautiful outside.  I looked outside and couldn't believe that it was sunny.  I thought why not run the last 6 outside.

Just after leaving the house I noticed God's gift of a rainbow.  I started my communication with God by thanking him for his greatness and the rainbow he provided.  I had a nice run and it remained sunny the rest of the evening, but my runs are not always about rainbows and butterflies.  Last week I had a run that was very difficult.  I just didn't feel right.  My joints felt still and my legs were heavy. Mentally I wasn't wanting to run and I thought about stopping.  A couple of miles into the run I ran into this guy.

The picture doesn't do him justice. He was over one foot long and looked like the meanest snapping turtle I have ever seen.  It reminded me of a verse from Galatians 5:7 You were running a good race.  Who cut in on you to keep you from obeying the truth?  I certainly wasn't going to let this guy stop me from finishing my run, but how often do I let material things cut in on me and keep me from having closeness with God?  As I continued to run I thought about this over and over.  Why would I let anything come between me and the Lord?  Why slow myself down with things of this world?  I want to run my race with strength and focus and not let anyone or anything cut in on me as I run with God.

Run Your Race

Hebrews 12:1