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finishing well


This is a tough subject that has been talked about in many different places and from all kinds of angles.  It can talk about someone who died.  It can talk about a change in a person’s life from one situation to another.  This could be marriage, the birth of a baby, the change of jobs or a move to a new community.  Or many other things.

Listen in to what the Apostle Paul had to say as his life was coming to an end.

But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you. As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. 8 And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.

Life changed big time early in Paul’s life as he met Jesus.  Paul had been doing everything in his power to put a stop to the move and growth of the followers of Jesus, but one day Jesus met Paul, his name was Saul at the time, and confronted Paul.  The direction of Paul’s life took a turn and would never be the same.

His direction and purpose became clear.  Through the understanding that came God’s grace that Paul wrote about, talked about and pushed until his death came alive.  What would Paul say to us about planning to finish well?

Keep a clear mind by focusing on your purpose and passion.

Don’t be afraid to share what really matters in life.

Allow your life to be poured out and to count for what really matters.

Paul said he had fought the good fight and even finished the race.  But through it all Paul confessed and was confident that he was faithful to God’s calling in His life.

What matters is what God says about us.  Our prize is God.  He has set the coarse.  He has taken care of our future, and we can rely on Him through the journey. 

I want to finish well.  How about you?  It is not about keeping the law or simply doing what it right.  It is about honoring God daily.  Finishing well is not about compiling lots of possessions or lots of money.  Finishing well has everything to do with living with purpose, making a difference and having God in the center of our lives.  Let’s finish well.

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