The Almosts

My life up to this point is mostly defined by almosts. I almost have my Associates Degree. I'm almost a Children's pastor. I've almost written a book. I'm almost a certain age... I think you get the point. I've had a lot of starts, but no real finishes.

Does this bring glory to God?

Paul says to the Philippians, "Not that I have already attained or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me" (3:12). I've quit or given up on many things, or simply placed them on the back burner because of fear. I've allowed my almosts to hold me back from laying hold of what Christ has for me.

Paul goes on to say, "I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward goal of God in Christ Jesus" (3:14). It's time for me to "press toward the goal." It's time to pick up the almosts and reach the end. It's time to finish the races I've already begun.

I want to be able to say as Paul said to Timothy, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." I can't say that I'm able to say this right now. Taking myself out before it's over isn't fighting the good fight. Fighting the good fight requires perseverance. It means leaving my comfort zone. It requires leaving everything out on the mat. Not ducking tail and retreating because I'm afraid I'm going to lose. Finishing the race requires endurance. I must press on until the end. No looking back. No turning around. I cannot say with confidence I have kept the faith. Although, I believe in God, my fear has limited my sight and faith of God. I say I believe God is all-powerful, sovereign, in control; and yet, I've lived as if He can't help me. My fear has spoken louder than my words. It has proven what I really believe by my actions. I've allowed fear and uncertainty to be the victors, when God has clearly said, I am more than a conqueror.

It's time to press on.