Run Hard and Run Strong

I've been reading a book by Lisa Bevere, Lioness Arising. The message in the book has encouraged me as well as challenged me to the core.  It's the reason I chose a photograph of a lioness running to illustrate this blog.

Lionesses are master hunters; however, they are not fast runners.  Their prey can easily outrun them.  As lionesses hunt, they are strategic, purposeful and intentional.  They patiently stalk their prey in a crouched position ready to pounce at the right time.  Lionesses also work as a team to coordinate the kill. What I found interesting is that although they are confidently strong and powerful, lionesses are not very fast.  As I was pondering this I heard the LORD say, "Run hard and run strong.  Run with purpose and intention."

Notice, He did not tell me to run fast.  I just need to run with full effort and to stay focused.

I can honestly say that in my training runs over the past few weeks I finish feeling like I could have done more.  I admit that I'm holding back.  I can do better.  Last night we (Dear Hubby and the two kids in a double jogging stroller) hit the trail as a family.  I meditated on this truth and challenge from the LORD to run hard and to run strong, and I felt very satisfied at the end of the 3.5 miles.  I probably could have done a bit better, but I'll give myself a 90% which is more effort than I was putting out in the days before.

My second 5K is this Saturday.