Finish Strong

One of the hobbies I enjoy is running. A couple years ago, I completed a 10K which is 6.2 miles. Not only was it a test of my physical limits, but completing the race gave me a deep sense of accomplishment. There was no greater feeling than running across the finish line knowing that I gave it everything I had, and that every mile of training had been worth it in the end.

This week, my Dad also completed a race of his own, his retirement. After decades of hard work, dedication, and perseverance, he crossed the finish line on a successful sales career. I just want to publicly thank my Dad for all of the sacrifice and discipline that he put in to provide for me and our family so that we can be as blessed as we are today. He taught me by example that whatever I start, I finish no matter how tough the road gets. You are an inspiration. Love you, D.

When I think about my dad and finishing strong, it reminds me of what Paul said when he was writing to Timothy. He writes, “⁷ I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. ⁸ Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:7-8)

In this passage, Paul is nearing the end of his life and reflecting on the many trials that he had to overcome in his life and ministry. This is the same man who was persecuting and killing Christians before he met the Lord and was drastically changed forever. He ended up writing 2/3s of the New Testament Bible we still read to this day.

Paul wrote this to Timothy but it can serve as a powerful reminder for us today. Keep fighting. There is a quote by Napoleon Bonaparte that says, “Victory belongs to the most persevering.” Paul understood this truth well. The Christian life is not about sprinting ahead for a short season and then going back to your old life and ways. Instead, it’s about enduring through every trial and finishing the race strong keeping our eyes focused on Jesus. (Hebrews 12:2)

So today, wherever you are in your life race, whether you’re at the starting line, in the middle, or pushing toward the finish, remember to keep going. Keep fighting. Keep praying. Keep believing. There is a reward in heaven waiting for those that don’t quit when it gets hard.

The Bigger Picture: The victory belongs to those who endure until the end.