How to Finish Strong

Finishing Strong: A Call to Unshakeable Faith

In a world that seems to be rapidly pulling away from God's standards, how can we as believers remain unshakable in our faith? More importantly, how can we finish strong in every aspect of our lives, not just at the end, but in every endeavor God has placed before us?

The concept of "finishing strong" isn't reserved for the twilight years of our lives. It's a daily challenge, a constant call to bring glory to God in everything we do. Whether you're a young adult just starting your journey or someone with decades of life experience, the principles of finishing strong apply to us all.

At the core of this message is a powerful reminder: there's another kingdom coming. This world, with all its trials and tribulations, is not the end. It's merely the dressing room, preparing us for the eternal kingdom that Christ will establish upon His return. This perspective should fuel our hope and drive our actions. We're not just living for the here and now, but for an eternal purpose.

So how do we finish strong in light of this eternal perspective? Let's break it down:

1. Realize There's a Charge to Keep

We all have a responsibility to share the Word of God. While not everyone is called to preach from a pulpit, each believer is called to proclaim God's truth through their lives. We are living epistles, read by all those around us. When we allow God's Word to transform us from the inside out, it's like popcorn - the heat of His love and truth builds up inside until we can't help but "pop" and share His goodness with others.

2. Anticipate Opposition to the Truth

The world is increasingly resistant to sound doctrine, often preferring teachings that align with personal desires rather than God's truth. As believers, we must be prepared to stand firm in the face of this opposition. This requires intimacy with Jesus - not just knowing about Him, but truly knowing Him firsthand. When we've experienced His transformative power in our own lives, we can stand strong even when the world pushes back.

3. Be Alert and Expect Hardship

Following Christ doesn't guarantee an easy life. In fact, we're told to be watchful and to endure affliction. But in the midst of these challenges, we're also called to fulfill our ministry. Each believer has a unique purpose and calling. It might start with serving your family, but it extends to serving in God's house as well. Are you fulfilling whatever God has called you to do?

4. Keep an Eternal Perspective

Living for God now means living with Him for eternity. Our current "pouring out" of ourselves in service to God isn't wasted - it's being stored up as eternal rewards. One day, Christ will return, and we'll be caught up to meet Him in the air. Are we living in anticipation of that day?

This message challenges us to rise above the "gnawing" influences of the world. Just as a pilot might ascend to thinner air to eliminate a rodent problem, we too must rise higher in our relationship with the Lord to overcome the world's negative influences.

Practical Steps to Finish Strong:

1. Prioritize intimacy with God: Spend time in His Word and in prayer daily. Even if it's just a short time in the morning, connecting with God sets the tone for your entire day.

2. Identify your ministry: Ask God to reveal how He wants to use you. Remember, ministry starts at home but extends to your church family and beyond.

3. Stand firm in truth: Be prepared to lovingly stand for God's truth, even when it's not popular.

4. Serve with eternity in mind: Remember that your service to God isn't just for the present - it has eternal significance.

5. Stay connected to a faith community: Regular fellowship with other believers provides encouragement and accountability.

6. Rise above worldly influences: When you feel pulled by the world, draw closer to God. The higher you go in your relationship with Him, the less power those influences will have.

Finishing strong isn't about perfection - it's about persistence. It's about getting up each day with a determination to live for God's glory, no matter what challenges we face. It's about recognizing that every aspect of our lives - our families, our jobs, our ministries - are opportunities to bring honor to God.

As we navigate this journey, let's keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Let's remember that we're not just living for today, but for an eternal kingdom. And let's encourage one another to finish strong, not just at the end of our lives, but in every opportunity God gives us.

In a world that's increasingly unstable, we have the opportunity to stand out as unshakeable believers. By staying rooted in God's Word, intimately connected to Jesus, and focused on our eternal home, we can navigate life's challenges with grace and strength.

So today, ask yourself: How can I finish strong in the tasks before me? How can I bring glory to God in my current circumstances? How can I rise above the world's influences and draw closer to Jesus?

Remember, finishing strong isn't about your own strength - it's about relying on God's strength working through you. As you surrender to Him daily, He will empower you to live a life that brings Him glory and points others to His kingdom.

Let's commit to finishing strong - not just for ourselves, but for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom. May our lives be a testament to His goodness, His power, and His unshakeable love.