Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.  Ecclesiastes 7:8

What does finishing strong mean to you?  Usually, in the context of finishing strong, one may visualize a runner bursting through a finish line with speed and power to spare. The readiness and determination of the participant is typically beyond the effort of an ordinary runner. Such a champion would be undergirded by a greater willingness to be well prepared, endure pain, and function with a never-give-up attitude.

How many of us desire or see ourselves as relentless in that regard? As a confession, part of me raises a hand and says, “I’ll hang in there and never quit—NEVER!”  At first, that stance may seem to be admirable, appropriate, and a sure method for success. What more could we possibly need than our own will power and brawn?

Actually, there is a Biblical perspective that is very different and has much to say on this very subject. It turns out the heart of a genuine champion is one that is willing to give up. Of course, the giving up has nothing to do with quitting the “so called” race; it’s just the opposite. See, the heart of a true champion is willing to forego the strength associated with self for the strength of Jesus Christ—the One, we as Christians, believe  purchased us by His blood and is soon to return. His strength comes in the form of a loving relentlessness that transcends our everyday battles.

To be clear, this is not to say that we should abandon hopeful and effective efforts. The qualifying difference comes in the reality of God’s plan for our life. His agenda is as good as it gets and any relentlessness on our part, aside from His purpose for our life, is simple human pride and costly disobedience. When we choose to abide in Him, the Bible makes it perfectly clear that His Truth sets us free, His Love never fails, and His Grace empowers us with ability beyond our natural ability. On the other hand, should we decide to ignore God’s leading, relentless foolishness is our promised end (Ps 14:1).

Family and friends, let’s catch God’s perspective and refrain from wasted effort.  It’s not how we start, it’s how we finish that matters. Let’s run our race with a vigor that only comes from resting in Him. Let’s complete the journey with speed and power to spare, either at His promised return or at our life’s finish line, where our eternal starting gate begins. Now, that is the way to finish strong!

PS Psalm 127:1; Hebrews 12:1-2; Romans 15:13