Pastor’s pen “I want to win my race”

Effort plays a large part in any successful venture. Hard work, it seems, is the key ingredient to winning, no matter what we are involved in. I suppose this is what Thomas Edison was thinking when he penned his memorable quote, “Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration.” But is it hard work alone that leads to a productive and successful outcome? How about in the Christian life, is the level of busyness the most important ingredient in Christian service?

The Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 9: 24b says, “Run in such a way as to get the prize.” Paul shows us that we do need to be committed in the Christian life, and committed in our service to the Lord: that much goes without saying. However he also says that the effort we expend needs to be focused and goal directed. He goes on to say in verse 26, “Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly…”

Paul had one desire: to live the life that God wanted him to live and to do the works He had called him to do. On the one hand this means not being lazy and letting everyone else do the work. On the other hand this means not being so busy doing “stuff” that you miss the God ordained works that He has prepared especially for you. Remember in Ephesians 2:10 it says that God has prepared good works in advance for us to do. That means there is a particular work that God would have you do in His Kingdom. But first, some of us have to let go of our own agendas and start working to God’s agenda. The key is to look toward the goal; the goal of doing the will of God and gaining the prize. That prize is a heavenly welcome; “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25: 21, 23).

 Jesus lived by this principle.