The apostle Paul evaluated his own life when he wrote, “Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but ... I press toward the mark” (Philippians 3:12,14).
“Not perfect, but still pressing.” That should be the attitude of every Christian. We should never be content. We should always be contending.
About 400 years before Christ, a gifted Greek named Timanthes took instruction in art from a well-known tutor. After several years the budding young painter created an exquisite picture. When he was commended for his accomplishment, he became so enraptured with what he had produced that he sat day after day just gazing at the portrait.
One morning when he went to admire his work again, he discovered that his master had blotted it out. Angry and in tears, Timanthes ran to him and asked why he had destroyed his cherished possession. The wise man replied, “I did it for your own good. That painting was retarding your progress. Though it was an excellent piece of art, it was not perfect. Start again and see if you can do even better!”
The student took his advice and produced his masterpiece, entitled Sacrifice of Iphigenia, which is regarded as one of the finest paintings of all antiquity.
Jesus never wants us to be content with our accomplishments. No matter how noble they may appear to our vision, he would have us reach even higher plateaus of service and sanctification. Don’t be satisfied with your spiritual development, but on toward the prize. Keep pressing.
Someone asked a great artist which was his greatest painting. He replied, “My next.” None of us has done his best yet. Our greatest challenges and opportunities are yet before us. Let’s don’t slow down—let’s shape up and press on in God’s work.