Whenever I am sick and cannot run like now it is good for me to remember that – believe it or not – there are certain things that are more important than running. Paul says it like this:  “… train yourself to be godly. 8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.”

We spend so much time and energy on getting our bodies in shape,  but let our character, our very soul, our spirit atrophy. For unless you spend time and energy on building spiritual muscle, you will lose your passion, your sense of purpose, the image of God that you were created with.

On another occasion Paul gave some more motivation for this task: “Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back. So let’s keep focused on that goal, those of us who want everything God has for us. If any of you have something else in mind, something less than total commitment, God will clear your blurred vision—you’ll see it yet! Now that we’re on the right track, let’s stay on it”

Yes, friends, God has some things for us. let’s not miss it! Everyone is unique and special and must develop their talents, but on a deeper level we all are created to be in our character godly, like God.
The writer of the book of Hebrews in the Bible says this: “The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.” This Son is the Lord Jesus.

Paul again: “God knew what he was doing from the very beginning. He decided from the outset to shape the lives of those who love him along the same lines as the life of his Son. The Son stands first in the line of humanity he restored. We see the original and intended shape of our lives there in him.”
“…our lives gradually becoming brighter and more beautiful as God enters our lives and we become like him.”
Now this is something to live for. Jesus lead a life of sacrifice. He gave his life up to be crucified for the sins of those not worthy, like you and me. He is here right beside us, in us if we trust Him to transform us so that we will also live sacrificial lives.

Mother Theresa said: “Everything that is not given is lost.”
So if you cannot run and even if you can, let’s not forget to practice that which is more important.
Stephan