I Am Not Alone in this Race. Jesus is My Running Partner.

My husband and I love to run together in the mornings.

It started a few years back when my husband decided that he wanted to shed a few pounds and get in shape. I had taken some time off from running and was ready to do the same.

My husband and I like to run before the demands of our day of day begin. That means dragging ourselves out of bed early, often when we’d much rather sleep. As the days get shorter and colder it is even harder. I wake up, get dressed, and honor the commitment we made, but only because I know I am not alone.

We run at a moderate pace, certainly slower then we did when we were younger. There are days when I feel strong and run a steady pace and yet he drags. And, there are days when he feels great and I struggle to keep up. I don’t give up, because I know I am not alone.

When we run, we talk. Since evenings can be hectic with dinner and sports practice, we use this time to connect and catch up. Our conversations make the time fly by. Even when we don’t talk, the mere presence of my husband enhances my performance and brings me comfort, because I know I am not alone.

The Bible says that Jesus is a friend that sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24).

Like a great running partner, Jesus is with me, I am not alone.

He is there when I need that extra push and spurs me along. If I need a break, He slows down to walk with me. He doesn’t take off and leave me by the side of the road gasping for air as my heart rate comes down. His words encourage me along the journey. And, when there are no words, His presence comforts me.

Jesus has been present since the very beginning of time. Many may think He made His first appearance in the New Testament, however mentions, whispers, and echoes of Him can be found throughout the Old Testament. In fact, there are hundreds of clues and promises about Jesus throughout the early scriptures that are fulfilled by Him in the New Testament.

I am so excited about a brand-new children’s devotional simply called Jesus: A 365-Day Devotional because it helps my kids understand that they are not alone. When I cannot be there with them, He will be. This devotional reveals verses about Jesus from Genesis to Revelation. Each day includes Scripture, an explanation of what that particular verse or verses mean, and a prayer for reflection that helps children discover that Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. The straightforward lessons easily engage early readers, yet it is relevant for tweens.

I am profoundly thankful that I am not alone. Jesus runs alongside me in my race. He is the constant Friend that I can count on (John 15:15). He makes me better for being with Him and I count on Him for encouragement to keep going, grace when I need rest, and companionship that comforts.

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Your Turn

What does it mean to you that Jesus is truly your friend? How has the knowledge that you are not alone helped you face challenges in your own life? We’d love to hear from from you in the comments!

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