Footsteps of Faith

Footsteps of Faith
Author: Grace Hill, Outreach & Foster WV Coordinator
When We Pray - Part 1
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About a month ago, I decided to prioritize things that were good for my soul. On a whim, I signed up for a half marathon. After high school, I really enjoyed running, not only for the physical benefits but also the mental benefits. I had taken some time away from it over the past two years. And, if I’m being honest, my relationship with the Lord has also been difficult over the last two years. I went through some very hard times, circumstantially and relationally. I didn’t feel like I had much left to give to anyone, especially God. Thanks to therapy and God’s grace, I am in a better place and can see how God has had His hand in all of it.
 
Training for this half marathon has taught me a lot about my prayer life and my relationship with God. When it comes to running, I feel like I have full access to God. It is just the Lord and me. There aren’t many times anymore when I feel like I am away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Running truly quiets my soul and forces me to press into the quiet. Running has given me an opportunity to be authentically myself. When I am away from everyday demands, it allows me to be real in my conversations with God. The long runs provide solitude and quiet moments where I can talk to God and simply be open to hearing what He has for me without worldly noise. God is good and worthy of our trust.

- Psalm 23:3 

Training for a half marathon happens one step at a time. I’ve had to work through sore muscles, shin splints, tired lungs, eating and drinking adjustments, and more. I’ve had to learn how to listen to my body and alter how I train. The same is true for my walk with Christ. I can’t just skip past the hard stuff. I have to prioritize it, taking things one step at a time—working through the pains and hurdles. God has used my training to remind me to slow down, listen to Him, and not rush what He has for me.

Like running, prayer is a discipline that takes repeated practice. I have noticed that the longer I go without praying, the harder it is to get back into that practice. I can fill that space with so many other activities: scrolling endlessly on my phone, worrying about the future, watching tv, just to name a few. The same goes for running—the longer I am away from it, the harder it is to get back into shape. 

Just as the runner trains to excel, your consistency in prayer shapes your spirit, strengthens your faith, and brings you closer to the heart of Jesus. These endeavors require dedication, self-reflection, perseverance, and the willingness to go beyond your comfort zone to reach your full potential. How can you push yourself out of your comfort zone to strengthen your prayer life?