Over the past few months, my wife and I have found ourselves watching “Heartland” almost daily. Much to my surprise, I have begun to genuinely appreciate the relationship between a human and a horse. Heartland often shows how horses gradually develop the ability to jump a hurtle and I wondered if the same process would apply to dogs.
When I saw this picture, I realized that the answer was a resounding “YES”. How, I wonder is this achieved? The answer is love, discipleship and repetition coupled with determination.
The achievement I just mentioned, also applies to humans who wish to excel at something as well. Well, how about Christians?
Consider the following passage from the book of Hebrews…
Hebrews 6 ( World English Bible )
1 Therefore leaving the teaching of the first principles of Christ, let us press on to perfection—not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works, of faith toward God,
2 of the teaching of baptisms, of laying on of hands, of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.
3 This will we do, if God permits.
4 For concerning those who were once enlightened and tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Spirit,
5 and tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the age to come,
6 and then fell away, it is impossible to renew them again to repentance; seeing they crucify the Son of God for themselves again, and put him to open shame.
7 For the land which has drunk the rain that comes often on it, and brings forth a crop suitable for them for whose sake it is also tilled, receives blessing from God;
8 but if it bears thorns and thistles, it is rejected and near being cursed, whose end is to be burned.
9 But, beloved, we are persuaded of better things for you, and things that accompany salvation, even though we speak like this.
To my fellow Christians I say: NEVER GIVE UP, NEVER! Love Christ and your brethren, make every effort to develop your discipleship in all aspects and be a determined Christian. If you do these things you will overcome any and all obstacles that Satan may throw your way ( with help from God Almighty, of course ). In short, you will be a winner ( just like that dog ).
