I Run.

I run for exercise.

But let me clarify.

I don't run because I necessarily enjoy it.

I don't run with a trendy jogging group or at a fancy gym. I don't run for the commercial health benefits.

No. I run for vanity.

I run so that I can eat a big plate of pasta. I run so I can have the french fries once an awhile. I run because I LOVE chocolate. Yes, I run so I can enjoy the glutinous pleasures but still fit into my 'skinny jeans'. I run so I can feel good about myself physically. Running for me, does not have much to do with the inner self, but more the physical self.

But running for me requires endurance.

I endure running so I can reap the benefits of the calories burned. I endure the occasional shin splints so I can eat one more bite of steak. I endure the extra early mornings so I can eat the unneeded appetizer of fried calamari. I endure so I can physically benefit.

But, honestly? I hate running. When I run, I argue, negotiate, bargain and even plead with myself. (I could make a stellar career defending those who didn't want to run just one more block.)

Moral of my running?

I endure, so I can reap physical benefits.

I feel like this is where I'm at in my relationship with God.

I'm enduring. I'm enduring because I know I need to. I'm enduring because I want the comfort that God promises those who are faithful to Him. I'm enduring because I'm learning real faith is a marathon, not a sprint.

To maintain my relationship with Him, I must endure. I can't run to Jesus once an month and expect HIm to fit!

So as I race into this new year I pray for strength and endurance. Not so much for my physical running, but my spiritual. Because that is the marathon that really counts!