Embracing a slower pace for the longer race…

I’m not a runner. I’m actually more of a walker, which is probably why this quote resonates so much with me…

“Life is a marathon, not a sprint.”

Another quote about life that seem to echo the same sentiment…

“Life is a journey, not a destination.”

Basically for me, I’m finding fulfillment in more of Him and less of me, and the best way experience that fulfillment on a daily basis is…

More seeking and less reaching.

Quieter spaces and slower paces.

Taking it in instead of hashing it out.

Just as long distance runners have to learn to pace themselves in order to maintain the endurance needed for the entirety of the race ahead, we need to learn how to slow down, look around, and ultimately, be found.

Found in Christ alone, by grace alone, through faith alone.

I want to not only be found in Him, but find my joy in Him, and I know for me personally, that means embracing a slower pace for the longer race.

During the first few days of the new year, I used my good friend Courtney Brackin’s “Five Things List” to help me hone in on five things in ten areas I want to be more intentional about.

1) 5 things I will keep doing because they are good / helpful for my life.

2) 5 things I want to limit or stop doing that will make my life better.

3) 5 new things I want to add to my life this year to make it better.

4) 5 people with whom I want to improve our relationship.

5) 5 ways to deepen my spiritual life this year.

6) 5 things I want to accomplish this year at home.

7) 5 ways I want to be transformed this coming year.

8) 5 fun or enjoyable things I want to do this year.

9) 5 books or topics of the Bible that I want to read and study this year.

10) 5 ways I will be healthier this year in body, soul, mind and spirit.

Five things to keep in mind when listing pondering and praying about these things:

1) Make them measurable.

2) Make them attainable.

3) Find someone to hold you accountable.

4) Make a plan that will help you see them through.

5) Write them down, keep them close, evaluate them often.

After making my “Five Things List,” I realized how intentional I must be to walk this out. Most of the things I’ve listed are right in line with my one word for the year — SEEK, and many of them require a slower pace for the longer race.

Will you choose with me the intentionality it’ll take to establish the rhythms and routines necessary to run this leg of the race in 2026?

I’m seeking Him more sincerely this year. Seeking Him in each stride, around every turn, until the race in done (and praise God it has already be won)!

Embracing a slower pace for the longer race. This day, this week, this month, and this year. I’m going the distance, and I’m in it to win it!