Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- July 26, 2010
“So they hanged Haman on the gallows he had prepared for Mordecai.” Esther 7:10 a
God is not looking for perfection, but He does desire passion for Himself and obedience to His word. People—who do not finish well—have decided to take control themselves. They act like they have a better plan than God. This type of decision-making process will have limited success, if any, in the Lord’s eyes. Then, how does the Bible describe finishing well?
It’s like a life long race—a marathon. Jesus is at the finish line, and as you run—an eternal entourage of people who have been faithful before you—surrounds you. Your Savior and His saints are praying for you and encouraging you to finish well—this is His will. Don’t lose heart or become proud of heart. Keep your focus on the ultimate destination: the prize of Christ’s commendation that awaits you. The Bible says:
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart” (Hebrews 12:1-3).
Along the race of life you will encounter difficulty. You will tire and need rest. You will have stretches of road that you run alone and feel like quitting. Others times the race will seem like an up hill battle with every muscle in your body screaming for attention. But thankfully, there are times of refreshment and rejuvenation. After you have run up a hill of hope, there is an opportunity to enjoy the righteous run down the other side. Indeed, some roads dead-end—you need to regroup and study the map (Scripture) of God’s will.
Thus, finishing well thrives in the presence of God. Intimacy with Him positions you to hear His voice and obey Him. You want to please the one you love. And what about those who love you? Yes, accountability from others who love you most facilitates finishing well. Listen intently to those who have your best interest in mind—who are finishing well themselves. We need mentors to help us refocus on the right priorities.
Lastly—finishing well means you live like you are dying—because we all are terminal. There is a sense of urgency to live our life today for Christ, since tomorrow may not come. We live best when we live as if today were our last day. Thus, finish well today for your heavenly Father, family, friends and future saints. A life well spent makes your Savior smile and say, “Well done thou good and faithful servant” (Luke 19:17, KJV). .
What does it mean for me to finish well? Am I finishing well today?
Related Readings: Proverbs 20:28; Isaiah 26:2; Acts 27:25; 2 Timothy 4:6-8
Boyd Bailey is the author of Wisdom Hunters daily devotional and two devotional books, Infusion and Seeking Daily the Heart of God
