The Big Picture in the Moment

 

We live in a paradox. We need to live in the moment and focus on being holy, right now, dealing with the struggles and sins that plague us right now. But at the same time, we need to look at the big picture and not be distracted by the pleasure and comfort of the moment. We should work hard to be holy so as to be prepared for eternity.

Like an athlete who pushes himself with aching muscles and exhaustion, with the goal of finishing the upcoming marathon. If the athlete only looked to the moment, he would not regularly exercise each day. The goal of being in shape is always one step ahead of him. If he stops for a time, he will not maintain his physical state, but he will begin to decline and lose the progress he has made. 

If the Christian approached his spiritual life as the athlete approached his physical strength and endurance, holiness would be achieved.