“I’m going to run a marathon one of these days.” My friend had said this to me so many times that I’d lost track of the exact number. She reads oodles of books on fitness, she eats well, and she even teaches an occasional course on diet and exercise. After hearing her mention the marathon for the umpteenth time, I wanted to encourage her with, “That’s awesome!” However, all I could think was, “Stop talking about it and go do it!” So, being the loving, honest, and caring friend that I am, I said, “Stop talking about it and go do it!”

Last night, as I read the quotation in the photo I posted today, I thought of my friend and her annual “one of these days” statements, and I thought, “I am the same annoyance to God that my friend was to me.” She had all the tools, she could quote fact after fact and statistic after statistic, and with carefully planned outlines, she could teach others the principles for proper preparation, correct form, healthful diet, and appropriate attire for running long distances. Yet, she had never run a long distance! No wonder I was often annoyed with her (lovingly so) for being so well equipped and not making her knowledge personal by putting feet behind her words (no pun intended).

Yet, here I am, well equipped with all the tools for serving others, able to sing praises to Him, write blog posts, and teach classes on biblical principles that equip others for service—and personally doing so little. No, I’ve never audibly heard the voice of God, but last night, I heard an inward voice saying, “Stop talking about it and go do it! Put some feet to that praise! Love those that I love…feed my sheep.”

So, I just want you to know that I have begun to prepare for a “spiritual marathon.” I have a plan in place! I plan to stop talking about it and go do it! No, I’m not headed to Africa—though if that’s where God wanted me, that’s where I’d go! No, I’m not selling all that I own (all $1.47 worth of it!) to go feed the poor. But I am taking action steps to be intentional about seeking out the lost and the helpless. I’m eager to share some of these steps with you in the days ahead, and I hope you’ll join me in putting feet—consecrated feet—to our praise!

Suggested reading: John 21: 15-17

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Walkers/Exercisers: Are you putting feet to your intentions to keep moving in the month of February? You’re more than half way there! If you did 30 minutes a day last week, try for 32 minutes a day (or more!) this week! Be intentional about bettering your best!

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