"Whoop and Spur"

Whoop and spur, let none deter,

The ride God puts you on,

Though some resist, don’t dare to miss,

When you know right from wrong.

Be Spirit-led and God’s word fed,

And don’t look back at all,

The critics mean, have never seen,

The power of God’s call.

Out-live, out-love, when push to shove,

Comes knocking at  your door,

Gives grace you need to sow God’s seed,

Trust Him to give you more.

The easy path that draws God’s wrath,

Seduces lesser men,

The narrow way in which you stay,

If yours from way back when.

So never tire, the Spirit’s fire,

Will energize your try,

Rise up and fight, with all your might,

And do it till you die.

And then you’ll know, as home you go,

Twas worth all that you gave,

To hear well-done, my blessed son,

You finished, strong and brave.

“But Jesus said to him, ‘No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the Kingdom of God.’” (Luke 9:62, NAS)

Everyone has moments of uncertainty in their walk with the Lord. So why would Jesus make such a strident statement? He is simply emphasizing the need for a resolute commitment to follow Him, no matter what. There are many strong starters, but fewer strong finishers. Don’t look back, don’t slow down, don’t be distracted and don’t give up. God’s grace and the power of God’s Spirit will energize us to whoop and spur until the end. Get after it.

Lord, help us to stay focused for You, in Jesus’ name.

Art by Mark Maggiori, used by permission. Thanks, Mark, and God bless you.