Straining toward what is ahead...

It never ceases to amaze me how I can read a scripture over and over sometimes for years, and then one day it just comes alive! I see something I never saw before. Proof I believe, that the Word of God is truly alive, and meets us when and where we need it. Reading this morning I came across Phil 3:13-14

 " Brothers, I do not as yet consider myself to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."

What struck me this morning were the words "straining toward " and " press on." Words that imply it won't be an easy thing to do.
Paul didn't say I stroll toward what is ahead or cruise toward the goal to win the prize. He's implying that it takes work.
I remember one time back in my motorcycle days on Vancouver Island, I had my Yamaha Venture 1200 out in the back yard getting ready to take it for a run. One of my feet slipped in the gravel and it started to go over, all 700+ pounds of it. Not wanting to scratch the paint on it, I strained with everything I had to get it back upright. I did manage to do it, but I had to go sit down for 20 minutes afterward because my legs were shaking so badly. It literally took everything I had out of me to do it...I learned the meaning of straining that day!

It takes a great deal of effort also, for me to break free from the sinful nature I was born with, and to follow in the way the LORD would have me go. It's not a "cake walk". It's hard work. I'm thankful I have a God who will give me a hand to press on though. He promises me so in Isaiah 41:10...

" So, do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."

Thank-you LORD!