Have you ever felt the rush of excitement at the start of something new? Whether it’s kicking off a project, starting a new job, entering a relationship, or setting a personal goal, the beginning of any journey is often filled with a special kind of thrill and endless possibilities. But while getting off to a strong start is important, the real challenge is to see things through to the end. Sometimes, things beyond our control can make it tough to finish what we’ve started. But yet, it’s only those who persevere and complete their journey who truly get the prize.
Apostle Paul, near the end of his life, reflected on his journey and wrote this: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Tim 4:7). Paul knew that the true reward lies not just in starting well but in sticking with it until the end. Jesus reminds us of the importance of planning and perseverance—the cost of finishing strong. In Luke 14:28–32, He asks, “Which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it?” Our initial enthusiasm needs to be matched with careful planning and a commitment to follow through, especially in our spiritual lives.
Paul likens our spiritual journey to a race, saying, “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.” Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable crown, but we an imperishable” (1 Cor 9:24-25). The goal is to run in a way that ensures victory.
We serve a God who doesn’t merely start things; He completes them. In Genesis 2:1, it states, “Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them.” God did not leave the universe incomplete; He perfected His creation. Jesus is described as the “author and finisher of our faith” in Hebrews 12:2. He did not come to earth to start a good work; he completed it. On the cross, Jesus declared, “It is finished.” He fulfilled the mission God sent him to accomplish. Our God values completion; He is a finisher, and as His children, we should aspire to be the same.
In our spiritual journey, challenges will inevitably arise, and the path may seem arduous. However, Philippians 1:6 encourages us that “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” God will provide the strength and grace needed to complete what He has started in us. As God promised to the Israelites, He promises to us that if we are willing and obedient, we will enjoy the fruits of the land (Isa 1:19). The bible says, “You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.” (Heb 10:36, Jam 1:12)
As we embark on our own journeys today, let us blend enthusiasm with steadfast commitment. By planning carefully, seeking God’s strength, and remaining dedicated through challenges, we honour the God who completes His work in us. Remember, the true reward comes from seeing our efforts through to the end with faithfulness. Trusting in God, who always leads us to triumph in Christ Jesus, using us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of Him everywhere (2 Cor 2:14).
Author
kay.alli@legalview.co.uk