Running Your Race Well

by Katie Harding on August 22, 2022

I am not a runner, but since I’m in a family of runners, I’ve always claimed to be a spectator—watching race after race and cheering the runners on. However, I've realized I’m not actually a spectator either. A spectator just watches races, but over the past twenty-five years as I’ve stood by the sidelines, I’ve done more than be a silent observer. Instead, I am an encourager. I’ve cheered and shouted, trying to be heard above the crowds, encouraging runners to run their races and fulfill their goals.

What I’ve learned in the process is that there are three components that are important to running any race and running it well.

1. Preparation
Learn to stretch well and hydrate sufficiently each time you run. It will enable you to run a long race and finish strong. Always remember to soak in God’s Word and fill up on His living water each day prior to pouring out.

2. Pace
Determine your pace and understand your abilities. Don’t try to run someone else’s race. God created you special. Be true to who God created you to be.

3. Purpose
Know your goal and the time you hope to finish. Run with purpose in each step. Each day mark out a path for your feet and stick to it. Don’t be side-tracked by what’s on your right or your left.

And as I will tell our granddaughter next week while watching her run her cross-country races, "Go, Go, Go! You can do it! Kick it in! You’re almost there!”

“…I’m running hard for the finish line, giving it everything I’ve got. No sloppy living for me! I’m not running aimlessly; instead, I’m running with purpose in each step, staying alert and in top condition. I’m training my body daily and disciplining it to do what it should. I’m not going to get caught napping, telling everyone else all about it and then missing out myself” (1 Corinthians 9:26-27, The Message, Adapted).