The Highest Goal

The highest goal is not success, If that be made the aim; But faithfulness, tho' counted less, Is what God promises to bless: These goals are not the same.

And if I am to do my best In every line of life, My effort will be surely blest, And I will find in toil sweet rest, Tho' in a world of strife.

And when before the throne I stand To answer for the use Of gifts received from God's own hand, He will not then, in wrath, demand From me some strong excuse,

To show why I had not attained The goal of grand success, Such as some noted men have gained, For if my work is not sin-stained God will my failures bless.

And I will hear Him say, "My son, A throne thou hast attained; Without applause thy race was run, 'Midst failures oft thy work was done, Life's highest goal is gained."