Is the prize enough?

His feet bled from open blisters, and his hands and legs cramped as the young man pushed on, nearing the end of a three-day, 65-mile march. He carried 125 pounds of gear, slept no more than four hours a night, and had just enough food for 2 1/2 meals.

He had struggled through obstacles day and night. Yet he had one more major challenge: to climb the rugged mountain ahead. He forced his mind to ignore the pain and focus on the goal, whispered a prayer to his Lord, and with all his remaining strength, began climbing. His body was pushed to the breaking point, yet he still climbed. At last, the moment he had been working for arrived. He made it to the top of the mountain. The crucible is the final test a recruit must pass in Marine boot camp. It tests him physically, mentally, and morally. The young recruits quickly learn that they must rely on one another to solve problems and overcome the obstacles they face. No one gets through it alone. Although at times it seems impossible to go on, the anticipation of the reward compels them to keep going. Does our spiritual reward ahead compel you and me to keep going? Are we willing to endure hardship, pain, and struggle to finish our race?

For believers in the world today, life can feel like a 'crucible'. The challenges of life push us physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. The attacks of our enemy are vicious and brutal, coming when we are weak, weary, and without warning. Although the journey seems long and full of obstacles, we are NEVER alone. Jesus is always with us, whether we feel His presence or not.

Just as those young recruits had to rely on one another, we must rely on our Lord and His word. “And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed” (Deuteronomy 31:8 KJV). What prize are we striving for?  Is it worldly recognition, power, wealth, or position? Or are we more like the Apostle Paul? In Philippians 3:4, Paul says he is striving for the prize of knowing Christ, of entering into His sufferings, and of ultimately entering His presence in eternity. The Bible also tells of various crowns we can win.

But the greatest prize of all will be to see our Lord face to face. The joy that the young man felt when he reached his goal can’t compare to the exhilarating joy we can have when we finish our race and hear Jesus say, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant”!

When the struggles of life seem to overwhelm you, and you are tempted to give up, think about the prize waiting for you. Imagine seeing Jesus and then relying on His power, press on. Don’t give up. It will be worth it!

“I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:14 KJV)