“But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.”
Acts 20:24
When you watch an athletics competition, you notice that every athlete runs with a goal in mind—to finish the race, even if they come in last. Of course, they would be beaming with smiles if they came in first. In the same way an athlete would do everything possible to finish their race well, believers should strive to faithfully complete the course set before them.
Life is a race, but not all who start it finish well. Many are easily distracted, discouraged, or defeated by the trials that come their way. Paul, however, boldly declared that nothing would shake him or stop him from completing his assignment with joy. His eyes were fixed on the finish line, not on the obstacles on the track. Indeed, he finished what God had assigned to him and did it with joy.
Today, God is reminding you to keep your eyes on the course He has set before you. It is one thing to finish; it is another to finish with joy. What should motivate you is your determination to finish strong and to do so with joy. Joy is the assurance that God is pleased with you, even when people are not. Whether your assignment is in ministry, career, education, or family, don’t lose your joy in the process.
Charge: Your joy is a testimony, a victory, and your statement that the grace of God is enough.
Further Study: Ecclesiastes 7:8; Galatians 6:9; Philippians 4:4; 2 Timothy 4:7; Hebrews 12:1-2; James 1:2-4.
Happy new month, friend.
One Comment
It’s important to disregard all obstacles as we run this faith race.
Thank you for the reminder.