FINISHING STRONG

Read: 2 TIMOTHY 4:6-8

Meditation verse:

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7).

It is debatable whether any biblical character, apart from Jesus himself, lived a more fulfilled life than the Apostle, Paul. His earthly credentials and qualifications according to the Jewish custom were superb. He had an enviable pedigree that very few could boast of. Circumcised on the eighth day and a Hebrew of Hebrews, Saul as he was referred to then, was from the tribe of Benjamin; a tribe greatly esteemed among the Jews. And guess what? He was a Pharisee; the very devout Jewish sect known for their deep knowledge of Jewish laws and their ability to keep the laws of Moses to the last detail. As a Jewish leader, Saul was blameless concerning the righteousness in the law and he performed his duties with a zeal that no other could match (Phil 3: 4-6).

However, when the time came for him to dump these earthly credentials to pursue the purpose that God had for him, he did not look back. He counted all his accomplishments as rubbish compared to the greatness of knowing Christ and pursued his God given mandate with an even greater zeal. In chains or as a free man, Paul preached the gospel, planted several churches, and wrote letters to these churches. His letters are a large part of the New Testament. 2 Corinthians 11:23-29 gives a brief outline of what Paul endured in his quest to fulfill his assignment.

In ministry, commitment to service, conduct, lifestyle, devotion, sincerity and diligence, Paul had no rival. He simply could not be faulted. No one was also more qualified to give such an excellent valedictory speech as he did in 2 Timothy 4:7. He had indeed fought a good fight. He had lived a fulfilled life, had kept the faith, and was finishing strong.

What about you and me? When all is said and done, can we say with confidence that we are finishing strong? We are all called to a life of purpose and fruitfulness. How are you faring? Someday you will stand before the righteous Judge to give an account of your stewardship. As this year slowly comes to an end, why not ask God to show you areas in your life, where you need to make amends.

IN HIS PRESENCE is written by Oke Chinye.
Have you asked Jesus Christ to come into your heart?

He says in Mathew 11:28, “come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” He longs to give you rest."

Would you like to do so now? Here’s a prayer you can say:
Dear Jesus, I believe that You died to save me from all my sins. Today, I invite you into my heart and I accept you as my Lord and Saviour. Please forgive all my sins and help me to live my life for You.

If you prayed this prayer, send me an email at rockteachingministry@gmail.com

I would love to pray with you personally and send you a copy of my book; ‘Living the Life’ to encourage you as you begin your new life in Christ.