Blog

Running Uphill
Friday, June 14, 2024 by Rick Stockwell

Running Uphill

 

READ Matthew 6:25-34

“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

- Matthew 6:34

 

I recall Ryan Hall, the American record holder in the half-marathon, stating we shouldn’t think about the next big hill ahead of us while running, but should instead focus on the next step ahead of us. This sentiment dovetails nicely with our scripture reading for today.

What are you worried about—monthly bills, tuition payments, a wayward child, a bully, a strained relationship, your physical appearance, an upcoming presentation at school or work, retirement, health, safety, shelter—or perhaps, at an even more basic level, what you will “eat,” “drink” or “wear?”

What should our response be to these challenges? The Bible says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7, NIV)

Like the ant, each of us should prepare for the future. (Proverbs 30:25) However, thinking too much about the future can drain our energy and cause us to lose focus on important tasks that need to be done today. Share your problems with God in prayer—even if things seem desperate, with no way out—he has an answer waiting for you.

 

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7, NIV)

 

Prayer:  Lord, please help me get through today and not worry about tomorrow.

 

Prayer Focus:  Thankfulness for God’s provision.

 

Rick Stockwell

Rick Stockwell is employed as an IT Program Manager. He teaches Sunday school for kindergartners, is an elder at his church, and is the author of two Christian novels: THE WALL and THE BATTLE. He's been married for thirty-four years, and has two children and five grandchildren.

Book link: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B07HQ8G3MJ 

 


Previous Posts

What is Truth?
Rick Stockwell

12/20/2024

Success
Rick Stockwell

12/13/2024

Crumbs
Rick Stockwell

12/6/2024

TV Turnoff
Rick Stockwell

11/29/2024

Thanksgiving
Rick Stockwell

11/22/2024

Burning Brightly
Rick Stockwell

11/15/2024

One-Way Mirror
Rick Stockwell

11/8/2024

Time
Rick Stockwell

11/1/2024

My List
Rick Stockwell

10/25/2024

Bronzed
Rick Stockwell

10/18/2024

Anti-malware Software Needed
Rick Stockwell

10/11/2024

A Real Miracle
Rick Stockwell

10/4/2024

Forgotten God
Rick Stockwell

9/27/2024

Version 2.0
Rick Stockwell

9/20/2024

Chasing Shadows
Rick Stockwell

9/13/2024

Red Scribbles
Rick Stockwell

9/6/2024

The One I Esteem
Rick Stockwell

8/30/2024

Swimming Lessons
Rick Stockwell

8/23/2024

Hard Heart
Rick Stockwell

8/16/2024

Racial Healing
Rick Stockwell

8/9/2024

Are you Listening?
Rick Stockwell

8/2/2024

The Narrow Path
Rick Stockwell

7/26/2024

Go Save Someone
Rick Stockwell

7/19/2024

He Knows What You Need
Rick Stockwell

7/12/2024

Bleach
Rick Stockwell

7/5/2024

Firm Foundation
Rick Stockwell

6/30/2024

Impressions
Rick Stockwell

6/21/2024

Running Uphill
Rick Stockwell

6/14/2024

Are We Listening?
Rick Stockwell

3/31/2021

Go Save Someone
Rick Stockwell

3/31/2021

He Knows What You Need
Rick Stockwell

3/31/2021

Firm Foundation
Rick Stockwell

3/31/2021

Bleach
Rick Stockwell

3/31/2021

Impressions
Rick Stockwell

2/15/2018

Running Uphill
Rick Stockwell

11/29/2017

Racial Healing
Rick Stockwell

2/9/2017

Start Each Day With Prayer
Rick Stockwell

5/10/2016