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Swedish Fish

Originally posted by The Round Farmhouse Ministries on Friday, January 17, 2025

“But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night” Psalm 1:2 (ESV).

I love running distance, but last summer I noticed my long-distance runs were getting difficult to complete. I lost energy and had a rough time making it up the final hill to home. My brother got a book about running as a Christmas gift joke, but the joke was on me because I read the book and learned a few things. For one, it’s normal for long-distance runners to eat something sugary during their run. Interesting. I knew chocolate wouldn’t work, but the book mentioned Swedish Fish candy. You mean the candy I no longer buy because I can go through an entire bag in one sitting? This I could do.

I stuck a few fish in my running fanny pack (even in their own pocket!) and started out on a 10-mile run. When I started feeling drained, I popped a fish. . . and quickly learned I shouldn’t pop the whole thing in my mouth. I ate another fish every few miles, and yes, I felt like a seal being tossed a fish after doing a trick. You see, I thought I could get through 10 miles without needing a sugar boost. Pride stepped in and reminded me that I’d done it before, and I could do it again. And I might be able to, but not well. I couldn’t finish well, and my body wouldn’t be happy with me later.

How often do we think we can get through the day without spending time with God? Think of worship as our sugar boost. We don’t need one, we need many, and not once but throughout the day. The Book of Psalms begins with a directive to spend our days with God: “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, not stands in the way of sinners, not sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers” (Psalm 1:1-3 ESV). If we spend the day with God, we will be energized and strengthened.

I still eat Swedish Fish during long runs, and I’m proud to say that I haven’t broken into my running stash (there’s a great lesson in self-control). Now I have longer-lasting energy, which keeps my body running stronger and safer. I’ve also become intentional about spending my whole day with God, not just my morning quiet time. I listen to worship music on the way to work. I pray during my classes (mostly for patience. . . lots of patience). I read Scripture before bed. Spending my day with God makes me realize His nearness and gives me strength to serve His purpose.

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About Me

Kim Russell

I am a teacher, musician, worship leader, daughter, sister, runner, kickboxer, beach reader, and lover of God’s Word.

Thanks for reading! ~Kim

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