Reaching for the Prize: The "Post-game"

It was appropriate, although totally unplanned on my part, that our Reaching for the Prize campaign ended on Super Bowl Sunday. A new NFL champion was crowned after a fantastic game on the day some pundits refer to as “America’s Secular Holiday.” Meanwhile, we members of WBC were not crossing the finish line…we were just beginning our race! The prize we are seeking is much greater than a championship trophy; it’s greater even than the fame, satisfaction, and endorsement deals that come to a Super Bowl champ. One hundred years from now, only true sports trivia geeks will remember the exploits of Santonio Holmes, James Harrison, and Kurt Warner this past Sunday. But a million years from now, you and I will be just starting to grasp the glory of knowing Jesus and obeying Him.

So as we continue our journey together, I hope that this campaign has given you a new sense of purpose and direction. I’m praying for you to reach your goals and experience the joy of growing closer to our Lord. I wanted to share a few things with you as we take the next steps together.

If you haven’t finished the workbook, please take the time to do so. I think it will be worth your while. Feel free to call or email me with any questions you might have.

Consider refining your goals. Be as specific as possible. For example, instead of saying, “I want to be a better husband,” spell out the way in which you want to improve. “I want to be more patient with my wife,” or “I want to do a better job of listening to her” are much more specific, measurable goals.

Share your strategy with someone you trust. It may be a trusted friend, a spiritual mentor, a parent or a spouse. If someone else knows what you’re aiming for, you immediately feel a sense of accountability. You know that if you just drop this after a few days, someone will know it. Plus, you have at least one person praying for you specifically.

For five weeks now, you’ve been doing daily devotional work. That’s a good thing. Don’t let that stop, now that this study is over. No, I haven’t written anything to replace it, but a much better Author has. If you don’t already have a daily plan for reading the Bible, use our “through the New Testament in two months” plan. You can find it in the February copy of The Westbury Word, in your weekly worship bulletin, or on our website.

Continue to dream of what you can be if you truly, passionately pursue the goals God has in mind for you. Don’t give up on that. Don’t settle for “good enough.” Great days are ahead…let’s be a part of them!