Mind and Mouth

It was Mile 22 at the recent Detroit Free Press Talmer Bank Marathon. I was just coming off the windy, scenic, isolated Belle Isle. I had a choice right there. I could think and confess how terribly tired I was, OR I could choose a different approach.

What do you think I did? I said right out loud before crossing over the Belle Isle Bridge for MYSELF to hear, “I LOVE marathons. This is just the greatest. Marathons are WONDERFUL!” Why did I do this? Because I wanted to take every thought and word captive to God’s promises. I was telling my heart, soul, mind and strength to bless the Lord. It was a critical moment when I could give in to the wall or I could choose to think on all that was true, lovely and of a good report.

Guess what? It worked. The last few miles my heart, soul, mind and body were in sync as much as they could ever be at the end of a marathon. Sure I was exhausted, but I had no regrets. I did not allow a negative mind and mouth to take one ounce of my precious energy needed to finish the race.

Next time you are facing a marathon of an experience, ask the Lord to fill your mind and your mouth with a good report. Watch and see the difference it makes!

“Bless the Lord, oh my soul, and all that is within me. Bless His holy name.” (Psalm 103)