Our soul is hard wired to joy. Eventually we do what we believe will bring us joy. This is why faith is so important. God's plan will bring us joy, doing the race becomes almost automatic. Preach a little about the idea that this is real stuff and you really want them to stay with it.
Salvation is by grace through faith.
Rewards are by works. He longed for it. He daydreamed about it. He could hardly wait. Loving this world.