The key to winning life’s challenges

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. — Matthew 6:33

Years ago in Tennessee, two men were competing in an all-day wood chopping competition. The first man worked very hard, stopping only for a brief lunch break. The second man had a leisurely lunch and took several breaks during the day. At the end of the day, the first man was infuriated to see he had lost the competition even though he had worked so hard.

“I don’t get it,” he said. “Every time I looked at you, you were resting. But you chopped more wood that I did. How did that happen?!”

“One thing you didn’t notice,” the winner said, “is that every time I sat down, I was sharpening my axe.”

Most people today underestimate the power of taking time to sharpen their axe. They want to have good relationships with others and to do something great with their lives. But they forget that those things take a sharpened axe… character produced by taking time to seek God.

Don’t neglect your axe. Spend time daily sharpening yourself in God’s Word. Connect with God regularly through heartfelt prayer. When you take time to sharpen your axe, you’ll be ready to face any challenge life throws your way as you maximize your Kingdom impact!

Prayer Challenge

Pray and ask God to help you commit daily time toward sharpening yourself to be used for the Kingdom and face any challenge that comes your way.

Questions for thought

Why do you think many people want to succeed in life but neglect taking time to sharpen themselves?

What are some practical ways you can sharpen yourself on a daily basis to help you face life’s challenges?