Watch Your Step

“I watch my step, avoiding the ditches, and ruts of evil.” (Psalm 119:101 MSG) 

Trail running requires a lot more concentration than road running. When running a well-paved road, you can listen to your headphones and zone out if you want. Trails have uneven surfaces, roots, and ruts. These impediments are easier to navigate at the beginning of a race when your body and mind are fresh. However, after several hours on a trail, your physical agility and cognitive functions diminish. This is when runners are likely to injure themselves the most. Experienced trail runners are aware of this and make the necessary adaptations. They wear headlamps, slow down, and pay attention to the terrain. They keep their focus on the present task. They do not think about their to-do list or seek out distractions. 

The lessons of trail running can be applied to life. There are seasons when all is going smoothly and mild diversions are okay. But during uncertain times, when we are passing through the wilderness, we have to be vigilant. Exhaustion, impatience, fear, and confusion set in. The temptation to make moral compromises and seek out distraction is intense. 

“By your words I can see where I’m going, they throw a beam of light on my dark path.” (Psalm 119:105 MSG)

In dark times, on rough terrain, watch your step. Avoid the ruts of evil. Turn on your headlamp so that you can see the trail in front of you. Keep your mind on the present--not the past or the future. Slow down. Be aware of your internal and external landscape. Do not fall into the ditches of temptation. Remind yourself of eternal truths. Use the Word of God as a lamp to guide your feet and light your path.