Each of my life's significant failures results from my all-absorbing laser-focus on my power and my absolute dependence on self and fellow man.
Conversely, each of my life's significant achievements result from my all-absorbing laser-focus on the power of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit in me and my absolute dependence on His power, sovereignty and provision. "It is not me, rather Christ who is in me," "I can't, He (Christ) can, We (Christ and I) are."
I have written several times about applying this while running races and facing tragedies such as my dad's death, the same all-consuming recognition and dependence occurs in every aspect of life. Running on Faith Power of Light
At times, the enemy attempts to fog my awareness and dependence on Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit with deceptive phrases such as, "If it seems too good to be true, it probably is."
Jesus dying, resurrecting, and ascending in conquering death and forgiving the sins of each believer so they may have eternal life, magnanimously epitomizes "If it seems too good to be true," as does the reality of every believer of the Lord Jesus Christ receiving the indwelling Holy Spirit. Yet, both are true for each believer of Christ.
Satan and the demons seek to destroy our believing Christ as our Savior, they seek to fog our heart, mind and soul from recognizing, communicating and acting with the power of the Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. Satan and his demons strongly desire for man's (includes both genders) reliance placed upon other people, thus away from God.
No believer in communication with, and dependence on, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit relies upon another man. Rather, he/she relies on God who works through other men and women.
The believer knows that God's sovereignty and provision exceed and prevail humankind's shortcomings and failures, thus the believer remains patient, peaceful, joyful, prayerful and trusting regardless of external circumstances. I have previously written about this internalized peace after being asked to resign because I am, "Too honest."
My friend Jacqueline just posted this on Facebook, I read her post after completing the previous paragraph (printed with permission):
"Car window was smashed and ipad + computer stolen, in broad day light. The police officer and I chatted for 1.5 hours about Christ, life, and not letting bad things distract us from the plans God has for us. Bummer when bad stuff happens. Choosing to respond with joy and faith."
"I really enjoy annoying Satan. Evil wants us to be distracted by trials so that we lose focus on doing good. God lets us fight evil with joy and comfort. Trust me, I am upset about the documents and hard work that is lost (it was a work computer)...and for a second, I started to condemn myself for leaving the stuff in the car. But then God reminded me that condemnation is useless, AND, that He has given a lot of really great opportunities for me to focus on accomplishing right now. I'll be more fulfilled using my energy to focus on producing good instead of wallowing in the negative and condemnation. I'm not mad at the thief at all, just a learning experience in aligning my thoughts with God."
"And something cool JUST happened. I have been praying for an opportunity to know my neighbors better. As a result of my broken window sitting in the parking lot, a neighbor JUST came and knocked on my door and I got to cha with her!! I believe even more good is about to result from this!"
Jacqueline's response radiates the presence, power, joy and peace of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit in her life!!
Conversely, another friend Sue (not her real name) responded to her misfortune, "To the punk who smashed out my rear windshield...karma will be coming for you."
Sue's response radiates with the power of anger, and revenge of Hinduism and Buddhism (i.e. karma).
How will and do you respond to adversity?
How does your relationship with Jesus Christ and the indwelling Holy Spirit affect your attitude, perspective, goals, effort, performance and achievements?
Do the actions of others often test your patience, "tick you off," "drive you nuts"? When I allow the actions and attitude of others to disrupt portions of my life, I quickly realize that this usually originates from selfish thoughts, instead of the indwelling Holy Spirit. This greatly affects the Leader Servant's ability to serve, and lead.
This lacks condoning intentional sin in others or me, rather how I perceive shortcomings which affects how I relate to others. Additionally, these affect my attitude which affects my physical, emotional and spiritual health. The domino effect continues as these affect how I perform, my view and approach to serving God in serving others.
Our patience, understanding, forgiveness and love of others reveal our relationship with Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. This includes the degree to which we grasp the depravity of others and us (Romans 3:23), resulting in our and their emotional, physical and spiritual shortcomings.
In our pursuit of living and serving in Christ's image, we rebuke actions and love people. Christ clearly articulates the necessity and correlation of giving and receiving forgiveness, including in speaking to the Samaritan woman at the well. (Matthew 6:14; John 4:7-38).
"And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors."
"For if you forgive others for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others, then your Father will not forgive your transgressions" (Matthew 6:12,14-15 (NASB95)).
Consider everyone who has and does express patience, understanding, forgiveness and love toward you; pass this generosity to others. Even if you believe no one has extended this benefit to you, remember that God does (John 3:16). Follow His example. Forgiving others is a fruit, a result, of our relationship with Jesus Christ and the indwelling Holy Spirit. When we walk with God, we forgive others as He forgives us.
Forgiving others and receiving God's forgiveness through Christ's death and resurrection greatly affects our attitude revealed through our eyes, face, words, tonality and treatment of others. This greatly affects our effectiveness with associates in our organizations and MarketPlace.
See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ through understanding, loving and forgiving others!
"Whatever you do, do your work heartily as for the Lord rather than for men." Colossians 3:18
This morning's warm and humid 11+ miler was one of the better regular runs--no prescribed workout or preset agenda--in a long time. Relaxed, felt strong and had FUN--including singing "Lift High the Cross" during the 8th mile @ 6:07 (feel sorry for those @ White Rock Lake that heard my out of tune voice...lol).
My sister's bone cancer diagnosis on Tuesday evening reminds me to appreciate every moment of health and to fully apply our God given talents. It's easy to take life and health for granted when healthy.
Yes, it was a bit warm and humid again this morning, yet I focused on the joy in Christ and the gifts of life, family, friends, health and running.
21 July 2015
While running intervals this morning in preparation for October's Marathon, I briefly reflected on pivotal moments of my running.
One includes, following several injuries over the previous 3 1/2 years, Lyle Claussen saying that I could run well if I consistently followed a program. I listened to him and went 13 years without another injury while logging dozens of 100+ mile weeks. The next injury occurred while stepping off a curb while passing people in a crowded marathon.
A...nother began 32 years ago today when I attended Congo's Cross Country Camp @ Rock Springs Ranch. The 80 miles in 4 days in the middle of a record setting hot summer further opened my eyes to the possibilities of our mind and body.
Yes, we are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). Trust God in everything (Proverbs 3:5), including pivotal moments He places in Your life.
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Receiving awards following a recent Half Marathon from College Football's 5X National Coach of the Year, Bill Snyder, who serves as the Head Football Coach of the Kansas State Wildcats.
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“Truly internalized – it’s part of your motivational leadership.” Barb S., conference attendee
"Based on your race times, we will offer you a professional athlete entry into the 2015 USA Masters Marathon Championship at the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon."
David Schneider, M.D. responded to my correspondence regarding the 15th anniversary of the 1995 Boston Marathon.
“Rick…that is a very happy memory. I was graduating from med school and went on a trip to Boston to see one of the last basketball games in the old Boston Garden. Because one of my buddy’s uncles was an executive at John Hancock I had VIP seats right on the finish line, sitting next to the Mayor. And here comes Rick Meyer, one of the top American finishers!! I jumped the barrier and followed you into the med tent. We hadn’t seen each other in 10 years, so you were a little shocked to see me (besides being in physiologic shock after crushing the hardest marathon in the world).”
David later served on the medical staff of the both the Los Angeles Lakes and Dodgers, once attending a Dodgers game with Tommy Lasorda who introduced him to Tom Hanks.
David Schneider continues, “My favorite memory…that night after the Celtics game, I walked back through that huge public square to see the results posted on dozens of mobile classroom chalkboards, lined up as far as the eye could see. I walked all the way to the first board, and there on the top sheet of paper on the board was your name, along with a bunch of East Africans!! YOU STUD!!! Not bad for the son of a corn farmer from Gaylord, Kansas.”
"2015 Elite Athlete Race Registration...CONGRATULATIONS AND THANK YOU TO...RICK MEYER...RECEIVING ELITE STATUS AT THE 2015 ALL-AMERICA CITY 10K."
Listen to Congo's Ideologies - 2008 Toastmasters District International Winning Speech
"Thanks Rick. Great seeing you this last weekend and really enjoyed it! I sure wish I had a video of your opening speech!"
September 5, 2014
You may download podcasts released by Running on Faith Ministry, Inc. http://runningonfaith.libsyn.com/rss
The Introduction to these podcasts--laying the foundation:
One of my favorite quotes:
"Challenges are spiritual barbells." ~ Dennis Peacocke
Additionally, consider that each challenge you face increases your ability to relate to a greater number of people in a wider variety of situations without facing their identical challenge. Rather each challenge enhances your perspective and strengthens your faith. ...
Thus challenges, when accepted and evaluated with a humble heart, enable you to have stronger, deeper relationships with more people. Which increases the impact of your life on others.
Yes, sincerely thank God for each of your challenges! #RunningonFaith
June 2014
Worry Stagnates, Faith Activates. Run on Faith, today!
"Worry is contrary to God" ~ Martin Luther
Philosophy of Leadership / Serving (a)
The Organization - Rick E. Meyer - Founder and President
Award Winning Speaker, Certified Trainerand Dallas Theological Seminary graduate:
Rick E.
Meyer illustrates Biblical truth and love as the foundation of enduring success
in business, academics, athletics and all relationships. During his uplifting
presentations, Rick connects these truths to creating success in our daily
lives, sending listeners away with the ability to imagine greatness while
encouraging them to trust God in Christ.
See, Believe, Achieve Inc. involves multifaceted market place
ministry through motivational and inspirational speaking, public and private—secular
and Christian seminars, blogs, authoring books and articles. Additionally engaging in business development as an
independent associate with Max International, and running marathons. Max International provides health
supplements, and develops associates into leader servants.
Mission
See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Success is
achieving Christ’s will, through the Father by the power of the Holy Spirit for
one’s life, perpetually seeking and attaining the necessary wisdom, knowledge,
and understanding.
God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are
perfect—complete—consequently God’s will for my life, and everyone’s life,
encompasses each aspect—membership, citizenship, relationship, endeavor—of
one’s life.
God’s Will creates and allows actions and consequences
symbiotically interacting with everything according to His wisdom.
Christ’s
will includes the will of the Father (Mt. 7:21), possessing God’s full depth
and breadth in our every thought, action, and interaction. I strive to remain
humble before the Lord, trusting He will lift me up (James 4:10).
(a)Excerpt: The Leader Servant~3 December 2012
Dallas Theological Seminary – SL305 Dynamics of
Leadership
June 2, 2014
Rick
E. Meyer earned a Masters of Art in Christian Leadership from Dallas Theological Seminary in
Dallas, TX. Rick also received
a Graduate Teacher Diploma for teaching Evangelical Training Association
Certificate Courses from Dallas Theological Seminary.
Applied
Research Project: The Holy Spirit's Guidance in Max International.
Driving thru St. Paul, MN last Friday (6/20/2014) on the way to Duluth, I reflected on once entering the Twin Cities Marathon (TCM) with a sore leg just as I had on this drive to Duluth. Despite the leg hurting during warm-up and the first mile @ TCM, I managed a 2:27 followed by a solo 2:24 twenty-seven days later.
I reflected on this for optimism, while diligently praying for speed, strength and wisdom. Unfortunately, this time the leg also hurt during warm-up and failed to hold-up, I quit running after passing the 1st mile in a blazing 11+ minutes--far exceeding my previous mile PW.
However, the Lord did and does saturate my heart with Peace, Joy and Gratitude (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18), just as during the more favorable results. Additionally, I am exceptionally Grateful and Joyful to see friends achieve amazing performances in Duluth. Congrats again to each of you!
Joyful & grateful to graduate from Dallas Theological Seminary this past weekend. Prayerfully seeking to obediently serve God.
April 10, 2014
"For the cause of Christ, who may I serve and help today?" ~ Charles M. Gibbs
What is your Mission Statement?
This one correlates with scripture and the desires of my heart.
I desire engagement in businesses, and any activity, in which I may fully acknowledge my belief in, trust of, and dependence on Christ. Why would any Christian desire presence among those hating and rejecting Christ? Those who hate Christ also hate Christians (John 15:18-19).
March 31, 2014
I am frequently asked why I run. Running is a provided tool by God with which I am to serve and glorify Him (Col 3:17).
Success is achieving Christ's will for your life (Mt 6:33, 7:21).
Perpetually seek God's wisdom, knowledge, and understanding neccessary for
attainment. God's will for our individual lives derives from His
one complete will for creation. "Success
is pleasing God." ~Dr. Stanley Toussaint I run to serve and glorify God through the resulting relationships. When we serve and glorify God, the world frequently hates us (John 15:18-27). I heartily acknowledge that I have, do, and will fall short in my attempts to please God (Romans 3:23). My dependence for success rests fully on Jesus Christ and the indwelling Holy Spirit. Whether running or anything else, seek to serve and glorify God through the resulting relationships (Col 3:17).
March 30, 2014 We frequently say and hear, "go the
'extra-mile'". Yet, how do we meet, much less exceed, God's love and
holiness? (Mt 22:37-39).
March 30, 2014
Good month of training, as I ran 355 miles, which includes five days of rest--no running. Far from my all-time high of 500, yet the highest monthly total in years.
March 29, 2014
When I give my best in a foot race or work day / project, I lack sufficiency for an extra-mile--literal or proverbial. I am only able to go an extra-mile when I fail to give my best in the original task. Give your best in serving God, achieving His will each and every moment, and you won't have to go an extra-mile.
March 20, 2014
Does the Peace of God (Phil 4:7) instigate Trusting God, or does Trusting God instigate the Peace of God?
We receive salvation in Christ through belief and trust (Acts 16:31; Ro 10:9). Upon believing, we receive the indwelling Holy Spirit who provides inner-peace (Ro 15:13; 1 Co 6:19; Eph 4:30; 2 Timothy 1:14). Increase Recovery, Energy and the Master Antioxidant
This includes enhanced mental focus and enables me to train as a 29 yr old.
March 11, 2014
Enjoyed a good 22-miler this morning, beginning through the SMU campus then to Walnut Hill and Inwood. I ran through several neighborhoods while working my back to SMU. The run ended with an out and back on Katy Trail, adding a mile near the American Airlines Center. What a beautiful morning to run, and meditate on God's word, presence and promptings.
Increased Recovery and Energy; along with decreased inflammation greatly aide training. www.max.com/337072
March 9, 2014
Paul begins each of his letters acknowledging that he is
a servantofChristinstead ofa leaderfor
Christ?
This includes when
declaring himself an apostle. “A common feature of all these meanings (of apostle) is their
predominantly passive character. In none of them do we find any suggestion
either of initiative on the part of the ἀπόστολος or of authorization
linked with the mission. The most that can be said is that the word denotes the
quality of being sent, unless we are to regard it as no more than a stereotyped
term.” [1]
Are you asking and willing for the indwelling Holy Spirit to maximize your serving Christ in everything?
[1] Gerhard Kittel, Geoffrey W. Bromiley, and Gerhard
Friedrich, eds., Theological Dictionary of the New Testament (Grand
Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1964–), 407–408.
March 7, 2014
“God,
what is your Dream / Vision for me?" "How may I serve you today?" "What may I learn
and how may I mature in you today?" "God, do I glorify you in promoting this
product or service to myself and others?” ~ Charles M. Gibbs
Compliments instantly trigger those walking in the Spirit to humbly praise God for His blessings and activity in their life.
"Encouragement is an instrument of divine change." Charles M. Gibbs
February 15, 2014
Stewardship mandates we strive to use creation to glorify God, the creator.
All things were created by Him and for Him (Co 1:16-17)
"How may I/we use this resource to glorify God?"
Sin reverses the order of creation, thus sinful stewardship exhorts using creation to glorify creation. "How can I/we use resources to 'save the earth?"
Only God can save or destroy the earth! When we truly communicate with Him through His word and prayer, He will guide us appropriately according to His will, which correlates with His wisdom.
Stewardship in running requires that we seek to glorify God, always!
February 14, 2014
The intensity of prayer in our hearts often reflects our desire and dependence to walk in the Spirit (Ro 8:4).
February 10, 2014
"The Leader Servant yearns for the Holy Spirit’s guidance in serving and glorifying God. Walking in the Spirit commands we recognize God as our only Leader. Servants joyfully acknowledge all glory belongs to God the Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit."
This excerpt from my Applied Research Project (APR) came to mind this evening when pondering Leadership. I can only consider myself Leading--in front--If I turn my back on God, thus walking in darkness. When walking in Him, His Light radiantly defines the Leader.
I shared with both readers of this paper, Dr. Lanier Burns and Charles Gibbs, that I wish my diploma read, "Masters of Art in Christian Serving".
February 10, 2014
Keep Running Records for later Optimism:
I was Very disappointed with my 10K time in Edinburgh last weekend. However, records show that I ran a 37:?? 10K (~6:00 pace) in August of 2000, followed by a 2:32:08 (5:48 pace--chip time) in the 2000 Twin Cities Marathon in October--my first marathon in four years after taking 3 years off from running.
Another factor to record: Body Weight. Edinburgh's 38:16 @ ~165 lbs vs. 2000 races @ prime weight of 145 - 148 lbs. Extra cargo, physical and emotional, serves as a great detriment to performance/achievement.
Release the extra weight of your sin, worries and concerns to God through Christ Jesus (Ps 55:22; Mt 11:30, 28-30).
"Worry is contrary to God." Martin Luther
Keep and Review your Records. Keep the Faith--Trust God!
Tuesday October 1, 2013
Do you and I stand in awe and fear of God? As a child in Kansas, everyone attending church stood in awe of God.
This awe and fear seemed to resemble that which we read about as spoken and written about by Moses and the Prophets.
In my observation, we have viewed and treated God as more common than Godly during past approximate ten years, and perhaps the last two decades.
The more I stand in awe and fear--Respect--of God, the greater my desire to study His word in which He reveals His character, salvation, eternal promise and promise of returning to rule.
Conversely, any hesitation that I have to read, and study His word, along with spending time with Him in prayer, reveals my declining sense of awe and reverence of God
As I Run on Faith, seeking to achieve His will for my life, I must remain reverently in awe of the God of all creation, the God of power and might, the God of Judgment, Mercy, Grace, Light, Truth and Love.
I am Running on Faith to the 2016 Olympic Marathon. Knowing and confessing that it is not me, but Christ who is in me! I can't, Christ can, We--Christ and I--Are by the power of the Holy Spirit!
God the Father, Son (the Lord Jesus Christ) and the Holy Spirit owe me nothing. All that I receive hear and in eternal life, through the Lord Jesus Christ's death and resurrection for the forgiveness of my sins (John 3:16) and the sins of all who believe, results from God's goodness, mercy, grace and love.
There is only one God, now and forever. Jesus says that He and the Father are one, and they send the comforter, the indwelling Holy Spirit. The Lord Jesus Christ explains that if you know Him, you know the Father. If you know the Father, you know the Lord Jesus Christ.
All who know the only God of all creation, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, know the Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit whom we receive upon believing Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior for forgiveness of sins and eternal life.
When I know parents, I instantly recognize their attributes in their children. If I do not know fathers, I can look at a child for an hour, day, month or year and never recognized their father's traits in them. I only recognized them as the son or daughter when I know the parents.
When we know God the Father, we instantly see Him--His attributes--in Christ.
Because I know and trust God's sovereignty and provision, the government shutdown has no effect on me. God is my provider! Historically, hostile rulers and governments seek to deplete its citizens of all hope, including hope in God.
Once they deplete the people of hope in God, the hostile rulers and governments scare the people into believing that they, the ruler and government, serve as the only source of sovereignty and provision.
The hostile rulers and governments want people to worship them, they also encourage worship of idols and false gods. They deny the true God, the Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. They mock His written word, the Bible.
David, as recorded in Samuel, serves as a terrific example of leaving these rulers for God. David had at least two opportunities to harm Saul, yet refused to harm Saul who sought to kill David, because of David's love and reverence for God.
I fervently pray that hostile rulers, goverment officials, and common citizens repent--turn to God. I pray in love for them because Christ first loved me.
Only by God's grace do I know, worship and receive salvation from God through Jesus Christ. He forgives me, despite my mistakes--my sins. I pray that all those who oppose God, will know Him now.
My hope for life on earth and life eternal exists in only the God of creation, the Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. Through Him, by Him and for Him I seek to love Him with all of my heart, soul and mind, and love others as much as I love myself (Mt 22:37-39).
My hope for building profitable business(es), speaking to groups and achieving the Olympic dream in the 2016 Olympic Marathon, resides in Christ alone.
Acheivements are good as long as they transpire in response to loving and serving God. My sufficiency resides in Christ, whom I stand before in reverent awe.
Do you reverently fear God? Where do you place your hope for today, tomorrow and eternity? Is your sufficiency founded in Christ or man?
See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
Saturday September 21, 2013
After completing graduate school in December, I plan to run, deliver keynote addresses and seminars, increase my writing and share with/educate the world about the amazing benefits of glutathione.
What do you know about glutathione? You owe it to yourself,
your family, business associates and friends to check out the health benefits
of glutathione.
Last Monday (7/15/13) my resting pulse was 31 beats per minute.
Saturday June 22, 2013
New record low this morning for resting pulse @ 35 beats per minute (bpm).
Wednesday June 19, 2013
Running on Faith:
Last Thursday (06/13/2013) I finished the day exhausted. The week began with an early Sunday morning one-hundred minute run in heavy rain, and close lightning, followed by teaching Men's Bible Study at Park Cities Bapties www.pcbc.org. That afternoon I flew to Houston to lead two days of seminars. I arrived in the seminar room by 7:00 AM both days, after late nights with dinner followed by work. I returned to Dallas late Tuesday due to a delayed flight. Once home, I ran 10-miles before going to bed.
On Wednesday, I awakened at 5:00 AM while arriving in the seminar room in downtown Dallas by 7:00 AM for Wednesday and Thursday seminars. I also received CryoTherapy at CryoUSA Wednesday evening due to a sore hamstring.
After Thursday's seminar, I joined friends for our weekly meeting at Taco Joint. Two hours after eating two Soft Tacos, I returned home for a run. Do I really want to run? Yes! Beginning June 1st, I doubled my daily Cellgevity intake due to increase training. Immediately upon arriving home, I swallowed the four capsules of Cellgevity while drinking the Max ATP energy solution.
I then changed from a suit into running clothes. I immediately recognized that I felt better running than I had in years. The Garmin watch recorded my first mile in 5:52, the second in 5:48. The next two miles I focused solely on my running form. My body adapts proper form much easier with the loss of approximately forty pounds in the past twelve months.
As I glanced at the lines on the sidewalk, I quickly recognized my air distance significantly increased compared to "normal" runs. Garmin recorded my next two miles in a cummulative 9:22. My fastest two-mile training run in years. The increased energy from Cellgevity enables wait loss, increased focus, and increase energy in each run. I am eagerly anticipating my next marathon on October 6, 2013.
God places the people and opportunity in your life to achieve His will. Equivalently, God places us in people's life, and places on our heart to positively impact them to achieve His will.
See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
_____________________________________________________________
January 2013
My research project at Dallas Theological Seminary includes discussing how business associates and leaders in Max International listen and respond to the Holy Spirit in business. Naturally, I am excited that Chuck Norris and his wife Gina endorse Cellgevity and Max International.
At age 46, I am running better than I have in years! God has blessed me with amazing training partners and coaches over the years, Bill Congleton, Lyle Claussen, and now Joe Boyle in Dallas.
The amazing people and opportunities are simply a product of others responding to God's command.
Are you listening for and responding to God's command for your life? What dreams does God have for you? All things are possible through the one true triune God!
Tuesday April 16, 2013
My prayers for the Peace and Hope of God found in the power and relationship with Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit to internalize and comfort all affected by yesterday's bombing in Boston.
The BAA Boston Marathon represents greatness, legends, competition, guts, glory and comradeship. This native Kansas farmboy fondly recalls running beside some of the world's top runners from Kenya, when competing years ago.
In the second half of the race my silent cheerful laughter, nearly turned audible as I passed a Kenyan ranked the world's #1 distance runner of the year for the previous year.
The french root for competition, competre, signifies bringing out the best in yourself and others. The BAA Boston Marathon epitomizes runners gathering from around the globe to bring out the best in one's self and each other. Testing the human body and mind endurance and pain tolerance in journeying from Hopkington to Boston.
Those responsible for yesterday's tragedy epitomize selfishness, envy, greed, foolishness and despising God. I pray that they, plural or singular, will repent--turn to God--believing in the Lord Jesus Christ's death and resurrection for their eternal salvation.
Because God through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit loves me, I pray the orchestrators of yesterday's tragedy will quickly know / believe in the Lord Jesus Christ for forgiveness of their sins, receiving eternal salvation.
Any lesser desire lowers my heart, now elevated in Christ, to the current depths of their heart.
I look forward to running the 2014 BAA Boston Marathon--God willing and by His Grace, mercy, love, health, and power.
Trust God! See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Update: Friday March 15, 2013
Are you pursuing God's will, His dreams for your life? Are you asking Him in prayer, seeking through reading His word in the Bible and associating with Spiritually Mature Christians, for Him to reveal His dreams for you?
I am in the middle of my fourth semester (March 2013) at Dallas Theological Seminary in Dallas, Texas, on track to earn an M.A. Christian Leadership in Decemeber 2013.
God continually reveals His dreams as well as perpetually greater depth and breadth of His provision and sovereignty. He provides all of our needs: emotional, physical, financial, relational, and recreational. We simply trust Him.
We acknowledge that we deserve nothing outside of His Grace through the death and resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of each our sins (Romans 3:23; John 3:16; Matthew 6:33).
We serve Him with all of our Heart-Mind-Soul, loving others as much as we love ourselves (Matthew 22:37-40). We humbly, joyfully, gratefully and prayerfully thank Him for everything--any and all gifts and challenges (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).
At age 46, I am running better than I have in years! God has blessed me with amazing training partners and coaches over the years, Bill Congleton, Lyle Claussen, and now Joe Boyle in Dallas.
Additionally, increasing my intracellular production of glutathione yields seemingly miraculous physiological results with Cellgevity, ATP and MaxN-Fuze (www.max.com/337072/chuck ). God--the Father, the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit--receive all the glory, credit and honor. Chuck Norris and his wife Gina endorse Cellgevity and Max International.
The amazing people and opportunities are simply a product of others responding to God's command.
Are you listening for and responding to God's command for your life? What dreams does God have for you? All things are possible through the one true triune God!
Shirts:
Tee Shirts and Performance Shirts are available for ordering directly from GTM Sportswear. Shirts with a 50% Cotton / 50% Polyester blend are available by calling GTM using the phone number on the link.
One may order from either my website store or the direct link to GTM Sportswear.
GTM's website recieves an overhaul, will return in January 2013.
In the interim, please call (800) 336-4486 for orders.
(Originally presented as a speech by Rick E. Meyer in
Toastmasters in 2000 or 2001)
Have you received a multitude of warnings regarding the
dangers of second-hand smoke? Some suggest our lungs fill with tar from
second-hand smoke, as do the lungs of smokers. A plethora of studies, documents
and discussions exist regarding the effects of second-hand smoke. I lack any
desire or intention of picking-on those who smoke.
When you or I associate with smokers, especially if we
gather in a smoke-filled room, smoke saturates our clothes. The smoke-filled environment
causes our eyes to redden, and the deepening and raspy sound of our vocal
tonality. Enough exposure to smoke eventually causes our sense of smell to
adapt, leading to eventually accepting the aroma of smoke as normal.
Those with whom we encounter after leaving the
smoke-filled environment instantly sense the environmental effects of second-hand
smoke. They instantly know we had been in a smoke-filled environment, they smell
the smoke on our clothes, the see the redness in our eyes, and hear the deep,
raspy tonality of our voice.
Even if we become accustomed to the smell, no longer
noticing the effect on our clothes, eyes and voice, others still notice. It is
nearly impossible to avoid the powerfully obvious effects of second-hand smoke.
The mention of second-hand smoke serves only illustrative
purposes in this discussion. I believe another second-hand contaminate contains
exponentially greater damaging effects than smoke—Second-hand Negative.
When we associate with negative people or gather in a
room filled gossip and complaining, the negative begins infiltrating our
attitude. Just like smoke, even if we become calloused to the effects, no
longer sensing negative, the effects remain. As others detect our presence
around smoke, they too detect our presence around negative.
What are the effects of second-hand negative? Our
attitude diminishes, our eyes and smiles lose their optimistic sparkle. Our
voice shifts from a cheerful tone to one of despair. The brief illustration of
a negative person speaking—when presenting in a keynote or seminar—causes loss
of optimism, and energy. The tar of negativity ruins our creativity,
imagination, vision, encouragement, and optimism.
Those with whom we encounter instantly detect our
previous association with second-hand negative. They hear negative tonality in
our voice, see despair—at minimum they sense a lack of optimism—in our eyes and
face. We lose our attractiveness—negative causes us to become unattractive. It
is nearly impossible to avoid the powerfully obvious effects of second-hand negative.
The effects second-hand negative hinder our physical and emotional
health in real ways. Negative emotions significantly impact the secretion of
neurotransmitters.
Neurotransmitters affect:
Appetite
Cardiovascular System
Control of Muscles
Immune System
Injury Recovery
Motivation
Moreover, stress from anxiety or depression causes the
excessive release of cortisol, which can potentially destroy our immune system
over time.
To avoid second-hand smoke saturating my clothes, causing
them to stink, along with my eyes reddening and my voice becoming raspy, I now
remain outside of smoky environments. If I open the door to a smoke filled
room, I immediately shut it and go elsewhere.
When you and I recognize the detrimental effects of second-hand
negative—literally and figuratively—we will close every door leading to rooms
filled with negativity. You and I will immediately go elsewhere.
Shut the door to negative associations!
Regain, restore, replenish the attractive sparkle in your
eyes, smile and voice. Strengthen your creativity, imagination, vision,
encouragement, and optimism. Strengthen your physical and emotional health.
Since the original presentation of this topic, an
excellent book published explaining the effects of negativity. I highly recommend:
Mathias, Art Ph.D. In His Own Image. Anchorage, AK: Wellspring Publishing, 2003.
The farmers’ smiles and optimism escalated as the gentle rain descended upon their farmland for several hours. “This soaking rain, answers our prayers.”
“Can’t imagine too much, if any, running off. We probably had a couple of inches” observes another—heads nod in agreement.
The minimal force with which the rain fell, enable soil pores to remain open. This factor optimized the soil’s rate of infiltration, which exceeded the rate of rainfall. Consequently, the soil absorbed all the rain—preventing run-off.
Absorbed rain provides a plethora of crop production benefits. The water provides moisture for seed germination, plant growth, herbicide activation, and nutrient uptake for certain plant nutrients. Water opens the double-layered clay soils, enhancing root-growth and nutrient availability of nutrients attached to the cations (cat-ions) in the clay soils.
This water loosens all soil, reducing or eliminating compaction and hard-pans to enable root penetration into the subsoil for additional water as well as benefit plant stability. Absorbed water during the winter months, provides freezing and thawing of the soil which increases it productivity through greater fragmentation.
These benefits occur with patience—let the rain soak in before driving or cultivating the soil, or lose some of the benefits. Steady, gentle rain produces more fruit, maximizing yield.
Conversely, a hard rain of the same volume often proves detrimental. Greater kinetic energy may result in a crust or surface seal, reducing or eliminating infiltration. This results in run-off of the rainwater, carrying productive soil off the field. Soil and water low in sodium results in reduced infiltration or less water absorbed into the soil. Jesus also warns about lacking salt, results rest in physical science as well as spirituality.
Intense rain reduces fruit production, minimizing yield.
Are you speaking a message of a soft, gentle, steady rain, yield much fruit? A soft absorbing message and a soft voice are two distinct factors. Tortures may whisper softly to their victims, while carrying a devastating message.
When speaking an intense message, regardless of volume, remember to include the salt of Jesus’ love, mercy, grace and forgiveness resulting from confession and repentance. Jesus’ salt, like appropriate sodium in soil, will open their pores to absorb your message. To avoid "run-off" and erosion, restrict the rate and volume of the message to the level of your audiences absorbtion rate--ability to comprehend and apply.
When carrying the message and love of Christ, your listeners will smile like farmers during a steady, gentle rain.
See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ! Rick
Rick E. Meyer See, Believe, Achieve Inc. www.rickemeyer.com
I recently heard a sermon regarding the complexity of life. While life can be complex, the sermon failed to mention methods of simplification.
My friend and successful businessman, Charles, frequently states he has no reputation, or regard for reputation, outside of his relationship with Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. Charles ellaborates, saying when he is alignment with the Holy Spirit, all relationships, including his wife and his mentor; fall into place.
The Bible instructs us in the Book of Psalm to please God, not men. Yes, God's creation is full of complexity and Christ's wisdom far exceeds the cumlative wisdom of all humans past, present and future. Seeking and pleasing the world is contrary to God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Simple is not easy, yet much less stressful. Simplify your life, choose to listen to, follow and obey Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. Forget about pleasing other people. Please Christ, as you will please those he desires you please. Be prepared, for his word also says that we, like him, will be persecuted as Christians.
Invest your Time and Energy in conversation with Jesus Christ, seeking to please him. Your reputation with the Holy Spirit will be amazing!
Simplify Your Life: Internalize Scripture, Pray, Listen and record direction from the Holy Spirit. Test the direction with Scripture, including quickly forgiving those who hurt you in any way.
Simplify Your Life: Accept the Bible as the Pure Word of God.
Simplify Your Life: TRUST Christ with ALL of your Concerns and Hopes; Fears and Dreams.
