And he that would win the heavenly race must say “No,” to self, and “flee youthful lusts,” and “endure hardness.” He whose soul can be mastered by his body has lost the bridle, and cannot wonder if he lose the prize.
II.—WE MUST SECURE A GOOD START.
Just before the Starter gives the word to go, the men paddle till the cord which the coxswain holds at arm’s length is tight, and every man has his oar ready for the dash into the water and away. To lose time at the start is to find that a chance has been thrown away.
“Remember thy Creator in the days of thy youth.” “They that seek Me early shall find Me.” He who would be a first-class Christian, must begin betimes. Time lost is lee-way, that cannot be recovered, strive as we like.
III.—WE MUST BE WELL STEERED.
In the picture parable you can see who is steering. Don’t let him come aboard you! Proverbs iii. 6, tells you whom to trust with the tiller ropes.
“He shall direct thy paths.”
If young men would only let the Bible “coach them,” they would be saved from many a blunder and defeat. It is important to have, as steersman, one who knows the currents, and just when to alter the course. The youngster who steers the University boat has been up and down the river many a time, till he has learned everything he needs to know. Let me ask you, “Who steers?” If Self-will does, you are undone.
IV.—NEVER CEASE STRIVING TILL YOU HAVE WON.
Your adversary will not. He will pursue you till you have gained the prize. “He who to the end endures,” is the