IRONMAN
ATTITUDES

Topics: Advice; Bitterness; Complaining; Counsel; Cynicism; Discouragement; Encouragement; Guidance; Motivation; Optimism; Perseverance

References: Nehemiah 4:1–15; Isaiah 41:13; Galatians 6:2; Ephesians 4:15, 29; 5:15–16; Philippians 2:14; 1 Thessalonians 5:11; 2 Timothy 4:2; Hebrews 3:13

I discovered the importance of healthy counsel in a half Ironman triathlon. After the 1.2-mile swim and the 56-mile bike ride, I didn’t have much energy left for the 13.1-mile run. Neither did the fellow jogging next to me. I asked him how he was doing and soon regretted posing the question.

“This stinks. This race is the dumbest decision I’ve ever made.” He had more complaints than a taxpayer at the IRS. My response to him? “Good-bye.” I knew if I listened too long, I’d start agreeing with him.

I caught up with a sixty-six-year-old grandmother. Her tone was just the opposite. “You’ll finish this,” she said. “It’s hot, but at least it’s not raining. One step at a time … don’t forget to hydrate … stay in there.” I ran next to her until my heart lifted and my legs were aching. I finally had to slow down. She waved and passed me.

Which of these two describes the counsel you seek?

—Max Lucado, Facing Your Giants (W Publishing Group, 2006)