Finishing Strong

Read

1 Corinthians 9:24 “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.”

2 Timothy 4:6-8 “For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”

Think

Charles Spurgeon said, “A good character is the best tombstone. Those who loved you and were helped by you will remember you when forget-me-nots have withered. Carve your name on hearts, not on marble.”

“It’s not how you start but how you finish” – a phrase that rings true in both sports and life. We’ve all experienced the excitement of a winning streak, cheering on our favorite team or celebrating our successes. But life isn’t always a smooth ride; seasons change, challenges arise, and setbacks can leave us feeling defeated.

There are moments when everything seems to align perfectly – good choices, right decisions, and wise steps. It’s like being on top of the world. However, these seasons of success are temporary. Sooner or later, we encounter hurdles that test our resolve. We may stumble in our relationships, face career setbacks, or experience unexpected losses that shake our confidence.
In those moments of defeat and discouragement, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and tempted to give up. But the Apostle Paul reminds us not to lose heart. He encourages us to press on and finish the race, no matter how tough the journey may seem. Because in the end, it’s not about how strong we start; it’s about how resilient we are in finishing what we’ve started.

In the Christian race, everyone has the opportunity to win. Unlike earthly competitions where only one emerges victorious, in God’s race, we can all obtain the prize – the crown of life. As children of God, we draw inspiration from being part of his team. Despite the knocks and setbacks, we have the assurance that we can finish strong as winners.

Life’s challenges may knock us down, but they don’t have to define us. The Bible reminds us that adversity is part of living in a fallen world. Let’s draw strength from our faith, knowing that with God’s help, we can navigate life’s challenges and emerge victorious in the end.

Apply

Find a partner or group to help you stay accountable in your spiritual journey. Share your struggles, victories, and prayer needs with them, and offer support to each other. Join a group or serve team at your church and set yourself up for success!

Pray

Jesus, give me the strength and perseverance to finish the race you have set before me. Help me to stay focused on you. Renew my passion for serving you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.