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“Watch yourselves, so that you may not lose what we have worked for, but may win a full reward.” 2 John 1:8(ESV)

Years of practice…hard work…dedication…. sacrifice and it all culminates within a two week period. I’ve always enjoyed watching the Olympics –  sitting on edge to see how our fave athletes will do – cheering the USA Team on to victory in pursuit of the gold. We love the inside story of those who have beat the odds, overcome obstacles and tragedies. And with today’s technology, we can read posts, tweets and replays instantly. We know who won the medals without even watching the event.

In this thing called life – we put in a lot of hard work, dedication and sacrifice. We give it our best shot. And as children of God, we press on for a far greater prize than the gold. But it doesn’t usually culminate within a two week period – it’s a lifetime, a journey from our first cry to our final breath. All the gaps in between – extraordinary moments to beat the odds, overcome obstacles and tragedies.

Aiming for the reward? How’s your prayer life? The Father rewards those who pray authentic prayers from a genuinely humble heart. Not for show but for relationship. Ever fasted? The Father rewards those who don’t draw attention to their sacrifices, yet quietly cleanse their hearts and seek His face in secret. Ever given to the poor or served the broken-hearted? The Father rewards those whose service to Him isn’t motivated by the praise of man.

Doubt that any of the athletes competing in an Olympics aim for second place or strive to fail? The same should be true of us – our settling for less will never reap the reward God delights in giving. We must diligently seek Him, faithfully serve Him and humbly walk after our God. Like the Olympic athletes it will require some no’s in order to seek the “greater yes” that positions for victory. It will require denial of self, discipline, perseverance and empty praise. But when we stand before our Father and lay our crowns down at His feet it will be worth it all.

“Father, the things of this world will fade away but only what is done in Your name will last. Help us to remain faithful to the high calling of serving You.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life