"Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain." ~1 Corinthians 9:24

Precious things cannot be had without the greatest difficulty. They that desire great reward must run through many dangers. Nature herself will not bestow her precious treasure without much labour. Dirt lies common in the streets, but gold is buried deep in the earth. Stones may be found everywhere, but pearls are hidden in the bottom of the sea. Do you think that God will reveal such things as eye hath not seen, no ear heard, nor entered into man's heart, to lazy men who lie on beds of idleness? Those who seek to win the crown must prepare themselves, buffet their bodies, and stretch themselves to the utmost. It is Satan's constant business to hinder godliness. When he is cast out he will rage. With what force and fury he pursued Israel to bring them back to their former bondage. The cross is a Christian's calling. Holiness is usually followed with much hatred and hardship. Satan especially is watchful to undermine souls. We will not conquer without much diligence. We must wake out of sleep and put forth all our strength. The time is short, the task is large, the work is important. We must shake off sloth and gird up the loins of our mind, to pursue godliness with industry against all proposition, to preserve in it with constancy, and make it our main principal work. ~ George Swinnock