In His Strength

Last week I completed what was the most difficult athletic event I have ever been a part of. At just over 90 miles (my watch logged it at 90.67), the Age Group World Championships definitely pushed my limits. In fact, pushed me beyond my limits.

In fact, according to my watch, my stamina was gone with 1:20 left in the 18.6 mi. run. And that’s what it felt like. Quad cramping from mile 30-40 of the 73 mi. bike, the run was a significant challenge.

I spent much of that time talking with God. I knew He called me to be there, and to take part in it, but everything seemed like more than I could take. My last gel (which gave me carbs) was in transition (shifting from the bike to the run), and I felt like I had nothing in the tank.

BUT GOD!

I just kept saying to Him that if He would give me the strength, I would keep going. And I did! When we have nothing left, we can always rely on God.

“Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isa. 40:28-31 NIV

I called on the Lord, and trusted in Him to give me strength when I needed it. I knew He called me to it, and He gave me what I needed to complete it.

What is God calling you to do that you don’t think you have the strength or ability to do? If He has truly called you to it, He will give you the strength to complete it.

“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” Phil. 4:13 NIV