A few weeks ago, I had the privilege to be the speaker for a women's retreat; the unique thing about this retreat was that it was my own church's event. We had a wonderful time in the Word and God moved in and amongst us in such a beautiful way. I was once again amazed at God's timeliness and generosity to meet us in our place of greatest need and move us toward greater joy. However, it was during our scheduled free time that God surprised me with a wonderful reminder of a powerful truth.
During our free time, several of the other ladies and I decided to try our hand at a round of miniature golf; and while you may be imagining an outdoor tea party of sorts I'll just let you know that a competitive spirit is not confined in a man's heart. We were having a good time, but time was not on our side. We only had a few minutes to get back up to our meeting room for a closing session. As some of the other ladies started loading into their cars to hurry back I stood at the end of the course with one of the sweetest ladies I know. Mrs. Diane, being mindful that I had to lead this final session, finished the 17th hole and then picked up her things for us to leave. Only she and I remained on the course, but I could not stand the thought of her being so close to the finish and not getting to complete her game; and while she was very willing to stop for the sake of the group I could tell she didn't want to leave it undone either. "No, Mrs. Diane, you only have one more," I said. She hurried over to the 18th hole, dropped the ball in place, and wouldn't you know it... hole in one!
I tear up even now as I have thought of this moment and both of our reactions as the ball fell into the hole. We were so excited and celebrated on that course as we rushed back to the car. But what if Mrs. Diane had not finished the game? Yes, I know that it was just a round of miniature golf and not only was there no prize, but even if there were, she and I had already been beaten. It did not matter. In that moment we were both reminded that we will never know what is in store if we do not persevere to the finish.
We all have seasons in our life when we are ready to quit and let circumstances dictate our course. Perhaps a struggle with sin; perhaps we've been diligent in the Lord, but don't see results; perhaps our carpet is worn by the bent knees of prayer, but we still feel we have not been heard. Hold on, persevere, keep striving. We cannot see around the corner, but God does. He knows and is prepared to delight us with His perfect timing.
Romans 5:3-5 says, "And not only this (v.2 the hope of the glory of God), but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us."
Hope does not disappoint - not because of anything we can do, but because of the love of God through the Holy Spirit. I know too many people who quit just short of the Lord's intervention. He stood waiting with open arms beckoning a little further down a prepared path, but perseverance faded away. Do not miss Him. Do not miss the chance to celebrate with the Father on the course He has purposed for you specifically.
Persevere. Finish the game.
No comments:
Post a Comment