The United States softball team entered the 2004 Olympic Games with one thing on their collective minds — winning a gold medal. Not only did they win the gold, they dominated. They went undefeated, outscoring their opponents 51-1, surrendering their lone run in a 5-1 win in the gold medal game against Australia. "That team is clearly on a mission," said Australian coach, Simon Roskvist.

Paul was definitely someone who understood his mission, and he took it very seriously. In order to carry out his mission, Paul first took the focus off himself. He realized the mission wasn't about his glorification. He also knew that his task would not be easy and would require perseverance. In Acts 20:23 he states, "I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me." Finally, Paul kept his focus on the One who had given him the mission. It is impossible to complete the mission God gives us without His help.

We must not allow pride or hardships to interfere with the mission God has given us, but rather focus unreservedly on Him, that we may faithfully complete the mission.