Don’t Look Back
He was running in a race. If he crossed the finish line first, he would receive the prize money. He was leading in this race, but not by very much. As he approached the finish line, he looked back over his shoulder to see where the competition was. When he did, he lost a step and his competitor barely crossed the line before he did. By taking the time to look over his shoulder, he lost a fraction of the momentum he needed to win the race. So close yet, so far away.
Those running in a race are told “do not look back. When you do, you lose some of your speed, and it could cost you the race.” This was costly to this young man.
Jesus was speaking in Luke 9:62 and said, “...No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” (NASB) Once you begin something, you should finish it to the end to the best of your ability. I described a race to begin this article, and it was important to those who were participating. But Jesus is talking about finishing the race for the crown we receive at the end of our lives on this earth. Once we begin following Jesus, we should never turn back away from Him. And yet, many do. They do not complete the journey. They began well, were running well, but then looked back for the briefest of moments, and when they did, they quit following and serving the Master.
There could be many reasons as to why this happens. Some are attracted by what the world offers. We are told, “Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. 17 The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever.” 1 John 2:15-17
We must be vigilant in our service to Jesus Christ. We must make every effort to do as much as possible for Him. Jesus wants disciples that will put Him first in all the things that they do. “Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.” Colossians 3:17
Are you that person? Or have you begun serving Jesus but fallen away from Him? Have you looked back and seen the things of the world and chased after them? Is Jesus at the center of your life? He must have first place. And if you’re not following Him now, won’t you put Him first? At the end of your journey on this earth, you will not be disappointed for obeying Him as He has asked you to do.