General Conference Applied Lessons from Loving/Hating Running | David A. Bednar, "All Who Have Endured Valiantly"
May 21, 2026
Matt Polifka, a longtime marathoner and bishop, draws parallels between running and spiritual endurance. He talks about training discipline, pacing, joy in hard miles, and the role of teammates and family. Short, vivid analogies link covenant progression, charity, and relying on Christ while cheering others on.
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Enduring To The End Is A Joyful Becoming
- Clay highlights Elder Bednar’s redefinition: enduring to the end is a joyous, gradual trusting in Christ, not merely grit.
- Bednar promises spiritual perspective, empowering grace, and indescribable joy as we trust the Savior.
Rely On Recent Spiritual Experiences
- Mitch urges relying on recent spiritual experiences rather than only past peak moments like mission experiences.
- He recommends creating daily or weekly spiritual experiences: scripture study, journaling, and magnifying callings.
Marathon Training Mirrors Covenant Preparation
- Matt describes marathon training as a long ramp-up and base-building process similar to preparing for major life covenants.
- He details 16-week training blocks, weekly mileage (45–50 miles), and scheduled rest and recovery after races.