Two pursuits require constant practice, three never rest: Flying airplanes in the bush, playing musical instruments for an audience, and walking with God.

Remembering that final airspeed varies between 55 and 60 knots, depending upon gross aircraft weight, is not the same thing as recognizing the edge of ‘the settle’ while playing the throttle on a bumpy approach. Reaction trails need, and wheels touch only in the general vicinity of the target spot. Amateur hides professional.

Remembering Beethoven’s “Fur Elise” is not the same thing as producing a smooth parade of notes up and down the keyboard. Nervous fingers hesitate, forgetting their path. They arrive only more or less on time. Parody eclipses masterpiece.

Remembering God’s direction when He led us to our ministry is not the same thing as having His Word now, in the heat. No wisdom comes forth; no insight enlightens. We give all we have—sympathy and a shrug. Emptiness covers filling.

None of these remain current by themselves. They offer us only two choices—push and grow, or loaf and slide. Fortunately, He calls and equips us to climb.

So, what do you see when you look up?

1 Corinthians 3:1-3; 2 Timothy 2:25; 2 Timothy 3:1-17; 2 Timothy 4:1-5; Ephesians 2:8-10; Hebrews 4:14-16; Hebrews 13:20-21