The Extra Mile

INTRODUCTION

The extra mile is the act of willingly taking up responsibility, challenge, etc. and delivering a result that is beyond expectation. It is surpassing the norm by taking further steps to get something done.

This is a feat that often involves making extra efforts to accomplish a task or achieve a desired goal. This lesson shall delve into what it takes to go the extra mile and the results.

OUTLINE

1. The Price

2. The Results

THE PRICE

Going the extra mile comes at a price. We shall examine some of the qualities needed below.

1. Doggedness:

This is the act of being resolute to achieve a feat by putting in more effort and going beyond the established standard (Judges 8:4).

2. Optimism:

Being positive-minded and exhibiting a can-do attitude without any form of restraint (1 Samuel 17:32–37).

3. Clarity:

Having a clear direction on how to accomplish a task. It is a state of knowing exactly where one is going and pursuing that objective with clarity of purpose (Nehemiah 2:15–18).

4. Aiming High:

This is moving above the normal level where others often stop and aiming high to achieve more in a better and more excellent way (1 Corinthians 14:18).

5. Hard Work:

Going the extra mile is an invitation to work hard and smart more than others. This involves putting in unrelenting efforts to complete a task and being more strategic in getting results (1 Thessalonians 4:11–12; Proverbs 6:6–8).

6. Taking Up Tough Tasks:

This is taking up intimidating tasks with the determination to resolve them. This helps one to handle tough situations and become strong in the process (Esther 4:16).

7. Dedication:

This is being devoted to a course and making sure that the solution is preferred irrespective of all odds (Proverbs 22:29).

8. No Excuses:

Those who go the extra mile are not given to excuses. They are driven by their vision for accomplishment and have no room to rationalise failure (Ecclesiastes 11:4; Luke 14:18–20).

9. Discipline:

They are well-organised and have no time for frivolities. They are not lazy and often deny themselves pleasures such as excessive sleep, needless talks, etc. (Romans 12:11; Proverbs 6:4–5; Ephesians 5:4).

THE RESULTS

Those who go the extra mile often stand out in what they do because they perform better than others (Daniel 1:19–20).

These people also exhibit a high level of commitment to any task committed into their hands (Genesis 41:48–49). They are result-oriented and work to the optimum to achieve the set goal (Proverbs 21:5).

They are exceptional in handling a project, work ethic or any responsibility assigned to them (Exodus 36:1). These people are always proactive due to their positive attitude (Philippians 4:13).

Accountability is another hallmark of people who go the extra mile (Nehemiah 2:15–16).

CONCLUSION

We must go the extra mile to stand out physically, spiritually, academically, business-wise and in all spheres of life because going the extra mile is a pointer to success.

QUESTIONS

Mention five qualities needed to go the extra mile.

Identify four results of going the extra mile.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN: Matthew 5:41

MON: Matthew 7:14

TUE: Mark 10:17–31

WED: Galatians 6:7–9

THUR: Matthew 24:13–14

FRI: Luke 10:25–37

SAT: 1 Corinthians 9:24–27

ASSIGNMENT

Identify five (5) situations (past or current) where you had/have to go beyond what is expected.

(2×5 = 10 marks)