It is easy to start with enthusiasm. We set a goal, make a plan, and tell ourselves, “I’m going to do this!”
But somewhere along the way, distractions appear. Problems arise. People discourage us. Progress seems slower than we expected. Before long, we can spend more time looking at the obstacles than looking at the goal.
Don’t lose sight of where you’re going just because the road gets difficult.
Think about driving down a highway. You don’t spend all your time looking in the rearview mirror. You glance at it when necessary, but your eyes remain focused primarily on the road ahead.
Life should be the same way.
Your past can teach you, but don’t let it control you. Your mistakes can make you wiser, but don’t let them define you. And today’s difficulties may slow you down, but they don’t have to stop you.
The Apostle Paul said in Philippians 3:14:
“I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”
Paul had experienced hardships, disappointments, opposition, and suffering. Yet he continued to press toward the mark.
That’s the attitude we need.
When you’re tired—keep your eye on the goal.
When someone tells you that you can’t do it—keep your eye on the goal.
When you stumble—get back up and keep your eye on the goal.
When progress seems painfully slow—keep your eye on the goal.
You don’t have to accomplish everything today. You simply need to keep moving in the right direction.
Sometimes reaching your goal requires changing your plans. Sometimes it requires asking for help. Sometimes it means resting for a while so you’ll have the strength to continue.
Slowing down isn’t the same as giving up.
Remember why you started. Remember what you’re working toward. Most importantly, remember that God can give you strength for the journey.
Thought for Today
Don’t let temporary problems cause you to abandon a permanent purpose. Keep your eyes forward, keep your faith strong, and keep moving toward the goal.
You may not be there yet.
You may still have a long way to go.
But every step in the right direction puts you one step closer.
Keep going. Keep believing. Keep your eye on the goal!
