I live on the west side of Denver and one cannot ride here without there being a hill in your future. Some are steeper than others but still present. This past Saturday I was on my way home and was climbing a hill that started out with a good incline, evened out a bit, got steeper again and then it was done. It got me to thinking how hills and sometimes the wind can be a good training partner for the runner or cyclist. The impediment challenges the strength (both mental and physical) of the competitor. It got me to thinking about the “hills” in my personal life.

In Psalms 121, the writer states, “I lift up my eyes to the hills- where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth”. The writer is saying that he sees the hills or obstacles in front of him and needs to confront them and get past them. Who will help. I have had many hills in my almost sixty years of living and many of the times I tried to tackle them without any preparation or forethought. Not even any prayer or seeking counsel from someone who has gone before. What folly on my part. God has given me many “helps” in my friends, past circumstances, etc. Why have I not availed myself of these?

I do not ride until I stretch but sometimes I start out my day without seeking help through prayer and reflection.

Each time I ride up a hill with the proper preparation (stretching, hydration, nutrition, and previous experience) I get stronger and the next hill is faced with more confidence. Each time I have another kind of “hill” come into my life and I take the time for proper preparation (prayer and/or the asking of advice) the hill is made easier and I gain more confidence. Not in myself but in God who provides the different kinds of help.

There are times in life when I do not want to encounter any type of hill. Does any growth happen from those times. I believe so but it is different. Long miles of steady riding with some ups and downs is also a valuable kind of training. Daily living is a marathon as well. That is also a gift from God who provides the necessary methods of help.

Whether hills or just long miles or a combination of both, employ the proper prep and enjoy the road. It will make the journey easier, not perfect or easy just easier.

Thanks for perusing,

Gary