In a recent story titled “An Austin Marathoner ran an incredible pace—while wearing blue jeans,” the writer noted, “There’s a reason behind the odd wardrobe choice.” Running a marathon is impressive enough—especially in Austin, with its brutal hills. Just finishing is worth celebrating. But one runner completed it well under three hours…in full-length blue jeans.
Truett Hanes finished the Austin Marathon in 2:36:56, averaging a 6-minute mile and placing first in his age group. A runner from Utah aiming to qualify for the Olympic trials, he battled windy conditions the entire way in denim from The Perfect Jean. This wasn’t his first time—he’s run several marathons in jeans, including last year’s Austin Marathon in 2:42:51, leaving commentators baffled.
What started as fun has become a platform to raise funds for good causes. Through a partnership with the company, purchases using his code trigger donations to The Miracle Foundation, which supports orphaned and foster children. Hanes has helped raise $40,000 so far.
Impressive, right?
Running in jeans is far from comfortable. Yet embracing that discomfort paid off in making a meaningful impact. Many believers long to make a difference in God’s Kingdom by stepping out boldly for the Lord. Yet so many never turn those desires into action because they fear leaving their comfort zone.
Spiritual growth and stepping out of our comfort zones to walk in obedience can feel scary and even be painful.
This fear of the unknown is likely what Abram (later Abraham) felt when God commanded:
“Get out of your country, from your family And from your father’s house, To a land that I will show you.” Genesis 12:1
Leaving his homeland was monumental. In that era and region, families didn’t separate—children stayed with parents, forming tribes of interconnected families for survival. A village or city was essentially an extended family sticking together. Departing meant risking everything. And Abraham was 75 years old! Why did God call him to do this? The answer comes in the following verses:
“I will make you a great nation; I will bless you And make your name great; and you shall be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, And I will curse him who curses you; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”
Genesis 12:2–3
God had spiritual and practical purposes for Abraham that could only happen outside his comfort zone. Surrounded by family and community, Abraham likely couldn’t receive the spiritual education, multiplication, or covenant blessings God intended. Abraham needed space for God to work His big plans in Abraham’s life.
Because of Abraham’s obedience, he became the foundational patriarch of the Jewish people, the “father of faith.” He is celebrated for his unquestioning trust in God, his covenant relationship with the Almighty, his willingness to offer Isaac, and his journey to Canaan on divine promise. He left everything. His descendants were entrusted with the Gospel as the house of witness. Remarkably, his obedience made him “a friend of God.”
“And I will make My covenant between Me and you, and will multiply you exceedingly.” Then Abram fell on his face, and God talked with him, saying: “As for Me, behold, My covenant is with you, and you shall be a father of many nations. No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham; for I have made you a father of many nations. I will make you exceedingly fruitful; and I will make nations of you, and kings shall come from you. And I will establish My covenant between Me and you and your descendants after you in their generations, for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and your descendants after you. Also I give to you and your descendants after you the land in which you are a stranger, all the land of Canaan, as an everlasting possession; and I will be their God.” Genesis 17:2-8
“And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” And he was called the friend of God.” James 2:23
My friend, when we are born again, we too can become the friend of God and do great and mighty things for His glory!
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7
So don’t let fear hold you back from what God is calling you to do today. It may be challenging and even frightening, but remember: God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. Just as God walked with Abraham every step, He will be with you in every step you take outside your comfort zone.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Abraham, who obeyed Your call to leave the familiar and step into Your greater purpose. Forgive us when fear keeps us rooted in comfort instead of following You. Give us courage to trust Your voice, even when the path is unknown. Equip us with Your power, fill us with Your love, and grant us a sound mind. May we embrace discomfort for the sake of Your Kingdom, knowing You are faithful to guide, bless, and use us for Your glory. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Happy Running!
Melissa Sharp is an ultra runner and running coach who has completed more than 100 marathons and ultra marathons. Melissa has learned how to keep running the race of life for the glory of Christ even though she endured decades of domestic abuse. Melissa is a survivor. Through her daily blog thejoyfilledrunner she inspires others to live in the strength of Christ.
