To complete almost any task worth undertaking requires that you keep on track. It does not matter if it is to complete school, stay employed at work, raise your kid(s) in a healthy environment, keep the passion going in a relationship, or just about anything else. Knowing that the race you are in is a marathon, and not a sprint, is important.
Alexander Maclaren was a fine pastor in days gone by. Not only was he a good pastor, but he published some great sermons. Those sermons are studied by many pastors in Bible college or seminary, to sharpen their own oratory skills. He once said, “The radiant sky behind us will illuminate the path before us.” You must be motivated by your past, as you pursue the road before you.
The apostle Paul talks about his past in Philippians. He says he has not arrived at where he wants to be in his walk with Jesus. After stating this, he says: “I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (3:14; NKJV). It is important that you be realistic in your walk with Christ. Know that you have not always done your best. There have been times that you could have served Him better. But you do not let that get you side tracked. You keep focused on that ultimate desire to serve Christ more faithfully.
So, you keep pushing ahead. You do not allow anything to come between you and your heavenly rewards. You know that with your faithful service, one day you will reap your reward. Until then, just keep pushing ahead. Do not let any obstacles get in your way. That heavenly reward awaits you.
To do that, live one day at a time. In fact, just live each minute to its fullest. Serve Christ faithfully!