SOAP: He is going to renew my strength

Scripture:

Psalm 23:3

He renews my strength.

He guides me along right paths,

bringing honor to his name.

Observation: God will give me the energy and strength I need and he will keep me going in the right direction so that I can/ will point to Him.

Application: Just this morning I was in a spinning class, trying to figure out why I was having such a tough time focusing on training for the MS 150 this year when it occurred to me: Last year I was so terrified about the ride that I asked people everywhere to pray for me in my training and on ride weekend. And they did. I could feel it. And WOW! What an experience I had training, preparing and riding in the MS 150!

This year I haven’t asked but one small group to pray for me… and I was almost embarrassed to do so.

Well, no more.

My strength in this ride will ONLY come from Him as it has before. And I want that strength again. And I want to cycle away to His glory, being filled so much that I am overflowing and cannot help but praise his guidance and strength every pedal-stroke of the way.

My ride last year added honor to His name. I sang hymns, shouted prayers and discussed Bible verses with fellow riders. (Really, I did. And last January I never saw THAT coming!) And, wow, what a rush.

I want it back. I want to do it again.

He will renew my strength and guide me along all those right paths, as I bring honor to His name. He will. Now it’s my turn to be obedient and ask for prayer so I can start honoring Him and his role in this endeavor.

(Stay tuned after the prayer, please.)

Prayer: Oh, Heavenly Father, YOU want me to succeed… and to succeed in your name. How foolish of me to wait until now to begin asking for prayer for my ride. Lord, thank you for reminding me. And thank you for your faithfulness last year, this year, and all of my life. Please surround me with your angels and catch me before I fall. Give me the gentle pushes I need to make it up the hills and guide my paths so that I will be safe and strong. And bring those into my path those with whom you want me to share your love… and then embolden me to do so. This ride, and its training, are again for you. Guide me as I make it all about you and not about me. Thank you.

So, on that note, Dear Reader… Will you please pray for me in my training, organized rides and in the big ride weekend April 18-19? I have a hilly 35- mile ride this Sunday and I could use your help. I know that with your prayer I will be stronger. Really. And I promise to report back. Thanks.