"But we must hold on to the progress we have already made." (Phil 3:16, NLT) "Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing." (Phil 3:16, KJV) From the last lesson, we learnt that water has a unique property which teaches us a very invaluable lesson in life. If you missed the first part of this lesson, read it here so you can understand this second part: A Lesson from Water (part 1) The property is that water refuses to expand like every other substance from between the temperature of 0 - 4 degree. It rather contrasts. And unless the heating is sustained beyond that range, no expansion will be experienced. Water demonstrates to us the true nature of success. It shows and teaches us exactly what it is like to make any worthwhile prgress in life. There is no smooth road to success. And like we say here in Nigeria, there is no "tarred" road to success. All roads to success is filled with potholes; and the only way to reach the expected height and level of achievement is to sustain the heat, sustain the passion, sustain the determination, the hard work! If you are into hit and run methods or get-rich-quick schemes, then total expansion is not for you.
When Paul was writing to the Philippians, he told them when you make a certain progress, you must hold on to it. You must sustain it. When you have started a good business, you must put yourself into it and make it work. If you are in school, be fully committed. Don't let your passion or enthusiasm die out. If you turn off the heat at 4 degree, the water becomes smaller than it was. If you give you too soon, you will miss the glory and reward reserved only for the persistent ones. The only way to get it right is to stick to it. Don't turn down the flames. Sustain the heat!