There's More To It Than Just A Great Start

I remember as I was growing up so many years ago that there were so many opportunities for new adventures in life.  During summers we made a choice of whether or not to play baseball; when school started there was band, or basketball or football.  To add to the confusion of choices their were clubs and groups that were available to keep one busy in both our social and physical realms of life.

As time progressed we learned that before we made a choice, we needed to consider the consequences of being involved in that particular thing. The problem was not that we were forbidden to participate but the deal was this, "if you start it, you will finish it and you will give it all you have."  It was not enough for us to just start something, but once committed to a certain thing, we were to give it all we had and to make it as successful as we were able - a half hearted attitude was not allowed.

 As I grew up, I learned to be careful of the things that I committed myself to and if I chose to be a part of something, a lot of thought went in to the decision.  In July of 1978, I made a decision to join a cause that would forever change the course of my life and I will never look back with regret.  I made a commitment after a Sunday morning altar call to join the cause of Christ and I gave my life to God.

Many people have made decisions throughout the ages just like I did in 1978, but through the struggles and the reality of life, they have not remained true to that decision.  Paul asked the question, "You did run well; who did hinder you that you should not obey the truth?"

You see, I believe there is more to a commitment than just making a good start and showing up at the beginning, I believe that only those that finish should be praised.  Paul said it like this, "I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us."

When all is said and done, it comes down to this - the start is not as important as the end.  So my question or thought for you today is this - "how is your race going?"  Many of you have started; some have given up along the way; and yet others are beginning to look around and wonder why they even started.

Let me encourage you today - no matter how great the pain or struggle - crossing that finish line and hearing the words "Well Done", will be worth it all.  You may be going through things that are overwhelming but I would rather go through them with Christ by my side than to go through them alone.  Life is tough and hard at times, but "You Will Make It Through!"  "I CAN do all things through Christ, who gives me strength!"

Just a few 'Things to Consider'.