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.
