I ran the Baton Rouge Beach Marathon on Saturday, December 1. It was a pretty day, and I had a nice run. It was my fifth complete marathon [26.2 miles]. While running I saw a sign that read, “Run 26.2 miles because 26.3 miles would be just crazy!” After the marathon I was in much pain, and will be for several days thereafter. Yet, I am eager to run another one. You may wonder why people run marathons. Here are a few reasons:

1. To achieve something, a marathon may be a goal or dream or on the bucket list
2. To overcome something, people run to cope with the problems of life
3. To push the limits, to get outside one’s comfort zone
4. To be physically fit

I am certain most people could run and complete a marathon. But, it takes lots of training and discipline. To achieve anything worthwhile in life it takes training and discipline. If you want to get a degree, lose weight, or learn a craft, it takes training and discipline. It is even needed in your walk with Christ. Do you want to be more like Christ? Do you want to read your Bible more? Do you want to improve your prayer life? It takes training and discipline. 1 Timothy 1:7 says, “Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness.” You might decide to run a marathon. That would be great! Regardless, challenge yourself to grow in your walk with Christ. Press on. Don’t give up. Pursue and enjoy God!