I take the idea of using this biblical quote from a great book written by Alan Williams called Teammates Matter. He also went to Wake Forest, but he played basketball, as a non-scholarship athlete in the 4 years after I graduated. It is a motivational book, especially where teammates are concerned, but throughout he also makes pertinent points that rested with me in everyday life and my own running.
He had a picture and a scripture quote from James 1:2-4 that he looked at everyday when he went to his locker, which he used to get through the tough days, the ones where he wondered why he was doing this anyway.
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”*
Whether you take this for your faith, for your work life, your daily life, or running – no matter how hard it is to do the thing you must do, you must persevere in the daily. Look at it one day at a time and over time your perseverance will lead you to a maturity of your routine (whether it be faith, work, running) and if anything a success – whether you it is the success you expect or not, but that is another story.
Be steadfast in what you do and your faith and ability will grow. Continue running regularly and you will grow and find it easier to persevere as the days go on.
Day 1: Introduction
Day 2: Start Small, Build Slow
Day 3: It Doesn’t Have To Be Boring
Day 4: Stitches
Day 5: Keep a Diary
Day 6: Dangerous Thoughts
Day 7: Week 1 Done – Some Suggestions
Day 8: Treadmill Training – Baby it’s cold (or raining) outside
Day 9: A Motivational Quote for You
Day 10: Distractions
Day 11: Partner Up!
Day 12: Another Motivational Quote to Ponder
Day 13: A Word on Dehydration and Motivation
Also, if you want more motivation, you might want to follow my Pin Board ‘Run’!