Finishing Well

The final topic in our Journey series was the idea of finishing well. I think this is a big part of the Christian walk. One of my favorite sayings is the Christian walk is a marathon, not a sprint. And the only way to complete that marathon is to finish well.

Think about the history of those who were early leaders in our faith. They endured trials, hardships, and prison cells. But they stayed the course. That's what makes Paul's letter to Timothy meaningful. Paul had really run the race well, staying true to the cause to the end.

One of my favorite examples of finishing well is the story of William Wilberforce. His story is depicted in the film "Amazing Grace."

Wilberforce was a politician and a devout believer. He believed that the slave trade in England violated God’s law because it failed to show God’s love to those in bondage. He felt God put it on his heart to be an agent of change. He tirelessly campaigned to abolish slavery in Britain. He gave impassioned speeches, offered legislation, and tried to rally people to support the cause. He fought for 26 years before the government abolished slavery. During that time he suffered a decline in his health, he lost his status, some of his personal wealth and his political capital. He suffered because he was a voice standing up against the popular tide, but God used him as an agent of change within the system.

We never know how God is going to use situations in our lives, even difficult situations, to grow us personally and to accomplish great things for the kingdom. All we can do is our part to persevere and finish well.

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