In discussions on spiritual matters, I've been known to say "It's like when you're running and..." If I were to write a book, that would be the topic: What I've learned about spiritual discipline through the discipline of running.
I am going to start writing some of those thoughts here.
I am not a fast runner, but I can keep going. While my slow pace can be irksome to me, I have learned to be ok with it because at least I am still running. I remember being given the advice to run at my own pace, don't try and run at someone else's pace. This is a very useful tip. I can run further following this guideline. I am less likely to burn out or collapse with the effort. I enjoy the run more. I build up my muscles in a safe way and am less likely to be injured. Once I develop basic abilities as a runner, then I can build and push myself more.
2 Corinthians 10:12 encourages us not to compare ourselves among ourselves because it is unwise or foolish. Galatians 6:4-5 encourages us to carry our load and not compare ourselves to someone else.
Hebrew 13:7 encourages us to look to our leaders and consider their way of life and thus imitate their faith.
I am inspired by many runners that I know but I am not them and that is ok. I can, however, learn from them. How do they eat? What is their running schedule? How do they cross-train?
I am also inspired when I see fruit in the lives of fellow believers. I want to learn from them. How do they study the Bible? How do they spend their time? What fruit is in their life and how did it get there?
Once I have answers to these questions I can tackle the task of seeing what that looks like in my life. Those disciplines won't necessarily look the same. It will take time to adjust and build up to where they are. I can go at my pace, not theirs. While I may make mistakes and grow slowly, at least I am still moving.
