Babe Ruth struck out 1333 times.  But what we remember him for is his 714 home runs.  Cy Young won 511 games but the number he lost is forgotten.

Abraham Lincoln was badly beaten when he ran for the legislature.  He failed in business and spent seventeen years paying out of debt.  He failed to get an appointment to the U.S. Land Office.  He was defeated in his race for the Senate, and in his effort to be Vice-President.  Again, Lincoln was defeated by Douglas.  But he eventually became the President of the United States. 

Many believe for a while but “in time of temptation fall away” (Luke 8:13).  Like Israel we have a tendency to forget God (Jeremiah 2:32).  In most communities, there are those who once were more faithful than they are now.  They do not attend Bible classes, night services, or other meetings as they once did.  They have ceased to participate in church activities.  Their light has gone out.  They have virtually quit.

Everyday religion is the antidote to failure.  Practice these safeguards:

1. • Every day let God say something to you.  Keep the line of communication open between you and God by reading his Word.
   

2. • Every day say something to God.  Stay in contact with the source of strength by prayer.  We cannot walk alone.  Prayer avails.
   

3. • Every day say something for God.  Share the good news.  Tell a friend. Speak a kind word.
   

4. • Everyday do something for God.  Look for opportunities to serve.  Opportunities are abundant; only a blind man could not see them.  Give a helping hand.  Encourage the downtrodden.  Exhort the wayward.  Comfort the sorrowful.  Support the weak.
   

My dear brethren, let’s be doers-not quitters! 

-Clarence DeLoach