Running in Winter and Surviving a Cold Marriage

How Obedience Leads to Joy

Running this morning in twenty-six-degree temperatures, with freshly fallen snow covering the trail, reminded me, “I’m not in Houston anymore.” It’s so easy—so easy—on a cold day, to say, “I can just run tomorrow.” The thought of an immediate hot shower without going out in the cold air or shuffling up the hills to earn it, and then getting to work a little earlier can be a strong, sometimes even self-righteous pull. But tomorrow isn’t likely to be much warmer this time of year. And when you learn to dress for winter runs, they can even be fun. This morning, on my way into Arapaho Park, I saw a coyote cross the trail in front of me. On my way back, we reconnected and ran parallel to each other for several hundred yards until he easily left me behind. I’m glad I didn’t miss that.

Another thing I’ve noticed: if I get out the door for my winter runs, I feel better all day long. If I skip the run, I live with a sense of defeat all day long. Added to that is the fact that skipping one day makes it harder to get out the door the next day, until it’s been a week of “I’ll just run tomorrows.” And then I’m out of shape.

Here’s the principle I’ve learned: A little “taking the hard road” gives a lot of refreshment and even joy.

I’ve experienced what I’m about to say first-hand, but the Bible teaches it: obedience leads to joy. Psalm 119:1-2 says,

“Joyful are people of integrity,
    who follow the instructions of the Lord.

Joyful are those who obey his laws
    and search for him with all their hearts.”