FULFILLMENT MUST BE ONE OF life's choicest gifts. It is a major building block toward authentic happiness. No doubt, Solomon had it in mind when he wrote these timeless words:

If you ignore criticism, you will end in poverty and disgrace; if you accept correction, you will be honored. It is pleasant to see dreams come true, but fools refuse to turn from evil to attain them.

PROVERBS 13:18–19

Fulfillment is sweet to the soul. The longing of the heart—unrevealed and deep—leads to dreams. These dreams float as time passes, refusing to be sunk by the anchors of hindrance and hardship. They grow into possibilities, kept alive by hope and determination. Vague possibilities lead to great opportunities that stir up the soul with gratifying, satisfying stimulation, which ultimately becomes actual accomplishment—and that fulfillment is pleasant, writes David's wisest son.

Have you become a victim of routine? Are you beginning to think demoralizing thoughts like, "Aw, what's the use?" and, "It isn't worth the effort." Are you starting to sigh rather than smile . . . focusing on the hurdles rather than the tape at the end of the race? If so, you have a lot of company. Surrendering to despair is humanity's favorite pastime. God offers a better plan. But it takes effort to grab it and faith to claim it.

You will always harvest what you plant. Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up.

GALATIANS 6:7–9

Please—take it from one who, years ago, almost stopped climbing and searching and following—stay at it! Fulfillment will be sweet to your soul.