“Life is a journey, not a destination,” the old adage goes.
And the adage is correct. Life is a journey.
For one thing, we never know for sure where or when the end is going to arrive. But even more, if we viewed life’s destination as the ultimate goal, we’d only have a very brief moment at the end to finally appreciate it.
Life is a journey to be enjoyed—with all its ups and downs and winding roads.
However, it would be incorrect to assume that there are no destinations in life to be celebrated. In fact, often times, the greatest prize is to be found at the end of a journey.
A runner knows the greatest prize is experienced at the end of the race.
A hiker knows the greatest prize is experienced at the top of the mountain.
A writer knows the greatest prize is experienced when the book is completed.
A chef knows the greatest prize is experienced when the meal is served.
A doctor knows the greatest prize is experienced when the patient returns to full health.
And a parent knows the greatest prize is experienced when the child has grown to maturity and responsibility.
The journey may be difficult, but the prize at the end is worth the effort.
In the middle of the journey, there is often discouragement and hard times and difficult steps that need to be taken. We may be weary, tired, frustrated, or heavy-hearted. But sometimes we just need to be reminded:
The greatest prize is discovered at the end of the journey and taking another step, even just one more, will bring you closer to it.
To those of you who are fighting a difficult battle today and to those of you who just need to hear this, keep going. Keep moving. There is a prize to be experienced at the end of this difficult road.
Maybe you are battling cancer today, keep fighting.
Maybe you are struggling to quit smoking, stay disciplined.
Maybe you are working to get out of debt, keep making progress.
Maybe you are trying to create a clutterfree home for yourself or family, keep decluttering.
Maybe you are working through professional counseling, keep at it.
Maybe you are trying your best to keep your marriage together, keep working.
Maybe you are worn out as a single parent, stay focused and intentional.
Maybe you are in school studying a field you are passionate about, keep studying.
Maybe you don’t even know if you want to get out of bed tomorrow, do it.
Whatever the trial may be that you are facing today, keep moving.
Each step forward may be difficult, but it is worth the effort because the greatest prize will be discovered when your pursuit is complete. And each step will bring you closer to it.
No matter how great the battle you are going through today, keep fighting.
Lyn Walton says
Timely word. Thank you.
Kim says
I opened this but have to tell you I disagree. We should not be moving toward the “prize “ . TODAY IS THE PRIZE. Once we realize that and really live it- we will be truly happy and at peace. Just my thoughts .
debb says
I totally agree, when in the midst of life’s battles it can be fatal to only look toward “Mount Doom,” especially when you know not what is lurking there. Also, as a deeply spiritual person, I have to lean not on my own power and plan, but instead enjoy the sunrise and listen to the SON. Am so grateful HE is waving the flag at the finish line.
Sheila says
I needed this yesterday, and even more today.
Annie says
Thank you for this…..felt emotional.
Walking has been my way to get through a day…..a time to reflect and refresh and rejig.
JenM says
This could not have been more timely. I don’t know why but this year for us is more tiring, overwhelming and just plain hard. Thank you so much for your words of inspiration.
Diane says
This is so true. I’m going to print this and frame it, it is so moving and inspiring. It gives you that little push to keep going when things don’t seem to be going well for us. To just keep trying, you know?
Thank you for sharing.
Jessalynn Jones says
Great timing with this post Joshua. I think we are all a little worn down right now and it can be a challenge to stay motivated when it feels like the uphill battle goes on too long. I have found that taking small steps to control the controllable and make trackable progress can help me feel that I’m moving forward towards my goals. Even if progress is slow these trackable steps are like mile markers on my journey that help me celebrate small victories.
Lori says
I needed this today… thank you?. Juggling a bit too many avenues along my journey. I keep my hope of the vision I have ahead.
Julie Mayfield says
Great advice, and I would add Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me”.
Amy Robinson says
One of my favorite verses!
Wanda Lazure says
The Scripture reference you quoted is special to me because it was my late Father’s motto and we had it inscribed on a memorial stone to honour our parent’s at our church campground.
Thank you Joshua and Julie for your encouragement and God bless.
Seana Turner says
Very encouraging. Love this! It isn’t easy to stay motivated in the struggle if you don’t believe there is a payoff at the end.
Jeanne says
I am so tired, I wish I’d reached the end of the journey soon.
Amy Robinson says
Virtual hug and prayers for you Jeanne. If we’re still here God still has a purpose for you, He’ll call you home not a moment too soon or too late. I pray His peace will be with you today.
Jeanne says
Thank you Amy, I know His hand is on me, yet it’s so long.
Frank Hrbolich says
Good for you and many more I think who feel the same way. Too bad there is not a button on the keyboard which says ‘LEAVE’, or I would have pressed it long ago. Realistically though, this is not the way things are. There is nothing to be done except to bear the pain and look and hope and pray for help from the Merciful One.
Gabi says
Oh yes, exactly. ? If you want to climb a high mountain or cover a long distance, you can’t do it in a short sprint. The secret is small and persistent steps.