1 Corinthians 9:24 – Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. (NASB)
Philippians 3:14 – I press on toward the goal for the prize for the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. (NASB)
As you ramble on through life, brother,
Whatever be your goal,
Keep your eye upon the donut,
And not upon the hole.
Many years ago, these words hung above the counter in our local café. I have read that the same prophetic words were displayed in a Downyflake Donut shop in Australia’s Chadstone shopping centre at one time.
My experience practicing this discipline came with returning to college. Much older now, married, and a mother of three, I had to keep focused to reach the long-term goal of graduating as a teacher, to ensure that our own three would be financially able to realize a college education.
My weakest moment came the morning I skipped a class, staying home to study for a test at noon.
Going down the road to pick up the babysitter, I noticed our horse racing across the bean stubbles, tail in full glory like black streamers in the wind. He had gotten out of the barn. It was my responsibility to get him corralled before I could continue.
Tired from corralling the horse and studying, on top of all my regular household duties, as I approached the steps of the college hall where the test was being held, I was very close to giving up the call and losing the focus of the plan. I found myself audibly saying, “Who is making me do this?”
In that moment, I decided to trust God. His confirmation for my decision came in hearing the noon chimes from the bell tower and the uplifting song, My faith looks up to Thee.
We’ve all had those moments when it becomes increasingly difficult to press on for some obtained goal, when we must cling to our faith that God will help us run in such a way that we may win.
Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, we are so grateful for the times when, through the love of the Father and the Holy Spirit, You have directed us and kept us on course to complete our goals. Amen.
Freda Van Winkle frforte@citznet.com
Warren, Indiana, USA
Thanks to http://daily.presbycan.ca