Big Steps

“I’ll stride freely through wide open spaces

    as I look for your truth and your wisdom;

Then I’ll tell the world what I find,

    speak out boldly in public, unembarrassed.” 

(Psalm 119:45-46 MSG)

Long distance runners often resort to a shuffling gait when they are tired. Their feet barely lift off the ground; the result is a slower pace. Runners can counteract this habit by doing stride drills during training. This practice reinforces efficient biomechanics and neuromuscular development. When doing strides, runners take big, bounding steps with bursts of speed for short periods. They focus on their form, ensuring every movement is purposeful. Interspersing stride intervals into a long distance run can improve overall performance. 

The journey of life can often be tiring. Our natural instinct is to plod through, eyes downcast, heart discouraged, and mind fixated on our depleting energy. In order to counteract this habit, we need to practice strides of faith--taking big, bounding steps. Uncertainty leads us to uncrowded spaces. Desolate places are usually wide open, enabling us to progress swiftly. Unencumbered by doubt, our movement becomes efficient and purposeful. Truth and wisdom are found in these times of devotion. Should we keep what we learn to ourselves or share with others? Do we tell the world what we find and face the chance of rejection and ridicule? 

Lord, enable me to stride freely through wide open spaces as I look for your truth and your wisdom; help me to tell the world what I find, speak out boldly in public, unembarrassed.