HOW TO FINISH WELL – Part 6 of 6

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set 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 hostility from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”  (Hebrews 12:1-3)

How do we finish well?... Those who finish well have a Christ-centered life,… a focused life,… a disciplined life,… a teachable spirit,… a well-networked life, and…

Sixth, along with all the other traits, those who finish well have what I call a lifelong perspective. They try to take the long view of life – to look at things with the end in mind. This is not to say they don’t at times become disoriented or tempted to launch out on detours. All of us do. But when tempted, certain life disciplines help them stay on course… There are multiple ways to think about life with your end in view. The point is, do something to get this perspective. It will keep you from being sidetracked and give you an enlarged perspective.

Each of these characteristics play a part in helping us finish well – by God’s grace, a Christ-centered life, a focused life, a disciplined life, a teachable life, a networked life, and a lifelong perspective. All play a part in our staying on track so we can finish our race. So that in the end we hear our Master say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:23a)

-- Adapted from Donald W. Sweeting and George Sweeting in “How to Finish the Christian Life: Following Jesus in the Second Half”

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