Christian Prime Timers constituted by Rev. E. Anderson

November 2, 2007 at 4:19 am (Christian Prime Timers)

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 Rev. E. Anderson

FINISHING STRONG 

It is not only important to commence and continue well, the vital consideration is to finish strong. Not all athletes get off to a terrific start but what they desire, above al, to really be in at the finish with a great final burst and attain their goal. The ultimate stretch is what occupies their mind and they go for it with the objective of being amongst the great finishers. The same applies to the Christian life and ministry. It is paramount that the final stage is one of strength, stamina and success. There must be a wonderful run in at the end that makes it obvious that all has ended on a note of triumph. In finishing strong there are a few helpful thoughts that enable to achieve this tremendous objective. 

       1/.  FINISHING STRONG MEANS YOU HAVE FULFILLED GOD’S AGENDA FOR LIFE AND WORK 

Like the apostle you will be able to say, ‘I have finished my course’, - 2 Tim 4: 7, implying that he had succeeded in doing what Christ had set out for him to do. Previously he had stated, ‘that I may apprehend that for which I have been apprehended of Christ Jesus’ - Philippians 3:10 

       2/. FINISHING STRONG MEANS YOU LEAVE A SPIRITUAL LEGACY OF GREAT WORTH      

Through your life and worth you bequeath to the up and coming generation an inheritance of priceless worth that they can receive. It is possible for them to lay hold of the investments you have left behind and be inspired and blessed by them and go on to even greater things. You are in a position where you can really bless people and impart spiritual gift – Romans 1: 11 

       3/. FINSIHING STRONG MEANS YOU SET A STANDARD FOR OTHERS TO FOLLOW 

Because you have maintained a firm discipline upon your belief and behaviour you have been able to be a role model for others to look up to. Your faith and conduct has not been that created by mere religion or legalistic notions but inspired by Christ living in you. By your very lifestyle you switch others lovingly on to Christ and the latter years are more powerful and influential than the former ones. You are a pattern for others to desire and emulate – 1 Timothy 4: 12. 

       4/.  FINISHING STRONG MEANS A SENSE OF GREAT PERSONAL SATISFACTION 

At the conclusion of life and ministry God wants his servants and people to experience a wonderful sense of well being because of a life well lived and a ministry and service well done. He does not want any to finish up with an awful sense of shame or blame but with a real feeling of accomplishment and pleasure. Having devoted oneself to a holy life and dedication to God’s work there will be an incredible joy known because all has terminated on a high note. Paul seems to indicate such with his words in 2 Timothy 4: 6-8. Christ’s dying breath was one of delight and conquest – John 19:30. He bowed out of life with a tremendous sense of pleasure in spite of the fact He was on the cross.   

       5/.   FINISHING STRONG MEANS THERE WILL BE A FURTHER CREDIBLE APPROVAL AND GRADUATION  

The ultimate pleasure and crowning moment must surely be an awareness in the final stages that life and work will soon be rewarded hence the added spur and excitement. All the time and endeavour that has been put in over the years is heading to its fantastic climax as Paul affirms – 2 Timothy 4: 8. Finishing strong means that soon the tape will be crossed and there will be the standing on the podium to receive the treasured crown and the prospect of promotion. The fact that soon there will be the full disclosure of all that has really be done will be appreciated and approved and rewarded should be enough to stimulate the concluding showdown. 

CONCLUSION 

The great finale should be fully valued and entered into with true spiritual zest and zeal. It should be seen for what it is through God’s eyes and utmost preparation and commitment should be made regarding it. This last stage should be seen as all-important and everyone should be at their peak and best.

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Illustrations of Note provided by Rev. E. Anderson

November 2, 2007 at 4:08 am (Illustrations)

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Rev. E. Anderson

SUN 

One of the outstanding features of creation is that of the sun. It is a very impressive feature that cannot be hidden and is truly a powerful testimony and illustration as to the Creator.

Although 93 million miles distant from the earth it makes a tremendous impact and difference to the this planet. Its ministry and value cannot be underestimated. 

It can be likened to the Supreme Maker himself. He who brought it into being and gave it its existence, presence, power, orbit, momentum, energy and service can be somewhat compared to it.

This planet with all of its life would simply not exist without its daily input and the same can be said with regard to God. In a quiet, unassuming manner it gets on with its important task and renders invaluable blessings to this world. 

Two things in particular are of special note. The sun beams forth its light rays to lighten the planet thus rendering its significant service. We are able to live with its light shining upon us and so are able to enjoy everything that our wonderful God has brought into being for our pleasure. It lights aids in growth and enables the plant and vegetable life to expand and develop their potential.

Beside its light rays, there is its warmth and energy that contributes to further blessedness for mankind. How many people love to bask in its presence and power and absorb its strength and take in accordingly its benefits!  

There is little doubt about it, when the sun shines it has a remarkable impact upon people. A sunny day somehow makes everybody feel good and that it is a delight to be alive and enjoy everything. 

The same can be said with regard to God the Maker of this tremendous factor. As He is allowed into a person’s being He is able to light up the within in a special, supernatural and significant way. He possesses the unique ability to illumine the mind and spirit with truth and throw understanding concerning the spiritual realities of life and so give comprehension on to its meaning. Further, He is able warm and energize the heart with the dynamic of His love so that one can sense they are loved by the greatest of all. Each day He arises in His own inimitable, silent fashion to impart the virtue of His presence. He really cannot be hidden from creation and His creatures. 

As to the sun, people can give little thought to it simply accepting it in a matter of fact way, and so with God. Many just take this feature of creation for granted and never look and think in wonder upon it. If it was switched off for a short while what difficulties would suddenly occur!

This is but an image of the One behind it. God is needed on a regular basis in life so that He may give light, life and love continually so that existence can be thoroughly and totally enjoyed.  

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