I do not claim that I have already succeeded or have already become perfect. I keep striving to win the prize for which Christ Jesus has already won me to himself. Of course, my brothers and sisters, I really do not think that I have already won it; the one thing I do, however, is to forget what is behind me and do my best to reach what is ahead. So I run straight towards the goal in order to win the prize, which is God’s call through Christ Jesus to the life above. Philippians 3:12-14 GNB

In the Christian life and Christian service, God only rewards FULFILLMENT and not ACHIEVEMENTS. Achievements are means to an end while fulfilment is the ultimate.

What’s the specific purpose of God for your life and how far have you gone in fulfilling it? Everything you get on earth at best is earthly and will fade away over time. So, they are not what you should celebrate. Rather, know that God’s intention for giving you those successes and accomplishments is to motivate, encourage and inspire you to remain faithful and committed to the purpose for which Christ has chosen you.

Until you have completed the race and you have successfully defended and kept the faith till the end, until you make it to the finishing line and you hear His voice saying, “Well done, you good and faithful servant!” Until you make it to the LIFE above and receive the Victory Prize namely, the Crown of Righteousness and the everlasting inheritance which cannot decay or spoil or fade away you must never think you have already won it.

Therefore, Don’t be carried away with the various medals, breakthroughs, accolades and awards you receive in this world. They are mere toys compared with the eternal reward awaiting you in heaven. May the Lord help you to remain faithful, focused and determined to finish the task you were given in the Lord’s service. Good morning.

Your brother,

Olufemi Babalola.