Set Your Pace Wisely

When running a long race, such as a marathon, a runner must set his pace wisely. "Going out too fast sets you up for failure, says the magazine New York Runner. "The likely result is either a long struggle over the last several miles or dropping out." One marathoner recalls: "The speaker at a lecture I attended in preparation for the race clearly warned: "Do not chase after faster runners. Run at your own pace. Otherwise you will get exhausted and may have to drop out.' Heeding this advice helped me to finish the race."

In the race for life, God's servants must exert themselves vigorously. (Luke 13:24) However, the disciple James wrote: "The wisdom from above is . . . reasonable." (James 3:17) While the good example of others may encourage us to do more, reasonableness will help us set realistic goals in harmony with our abilities and circumstances. The Scriptures remind us: "Let each one prove what his own work is, and then he will have cause for exultation in regard to himself alone and not in comparison with the other person. For each one will carry his own load." -Galatians 6:4, 5.

At Micah 6:8, we are asked this thought provoking question: "What is Jehovah asking back from you but . . .to be modest in walking with your God?" Modesty includes an awareness of our limitations. Has failing health or advanced age placed some limits on what we can do in God's service? Let us not become discouraged. Jehovah accepts our efforts and sacrifices "according to what we have, not according to what we do not have.' -2 Corinthians 8:12; compare Luke 21:1-4.

Next time: Keep Your Eyes On The Prize

Watchtower, 1999