rOur series this month is called "Finish Strong." The first week, I shared a funny story about how my marathon coach taught me the value of RPE (a.k.a. rate of perceived exertion) so I could finish my race strong. If you missed that episode, please go back and listen as it laid the foundation for this series.

We are discussing our spiritual RPE: Rejoice, Pray/Practice, and Embrace

Embrace:

Paul says in Philippians 4:11-12, "I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need."

And just after this sermon, he says the verse we have all recited from Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through him who strengthens me."

This verse is so much more than a cute coffee mug inspiration. It's a reminder that our spiritual RPE (rejoice, pray/practice, embrace) empowers us to receive the strength we need in Christ to keep moving forward.

Embracing helps us enjoy the NOW and it builds character for the future. Embracing hidden seasons of little empowers us for the spotlight seasons of much.

Keep running, my friend. The finish line is worth the intentional RPE.

Process:

What do I need to embrace in this season? Am I content in every circumstance?

Challenge:

Embrace the now moments.

Resource: There is a chapter about my running story in my book, Image Restored.  Go to imagerestoredbook.com to learn more and purchase a copy today.