Finishing StrongNäide

Hindrances to finishing strong

Scripture gives us many examples of people who began well but ended poorly. Their stories often conclude in sorrow, not celebration. If we pay close attention to their lives, we can draw valuable lessons that will help us in our own walk with God.

Take Judas, for example. He served alongside Jesus, the greatest Teacher, Mentor, and Leader the world has ever known. Yet Judas still failed in his divine journey. The cracks in his character became the doorway to his downfall. His love for money was a weakness he never dealt with, and the enemy exploited that flaw to destroy him. Ultimately, Judas betrayed his Master for silver and took his own life in despair. He was physically close to Jesus, but his heart was far away, and because of that, he was never transformed.

Solomon also began his journey with great promise. His request for wisdom to lead Israel is still admired today. However, his ending was tragic. His unchecked desire for women led him into deep idolatry. With 700 wives and 300 concubines, his heart turned away from God, and he built altars to false gods in Israel. His actions brought division to the kingdom he once ruled wisely.

1 Kings 11:6 says, “And Solomon did evil in the sight of the Lord and went not fully after the Lord, as did David his father.”

When the heart is not fully devoted to God, success, influence, and wealth will eventually reveal where one’s true allegiance lies. Make up your mind to follow God — not for what you can gain, but because of who He is. Let your greatest pursuit be to know Him more deeply, as Paul declared: “That I may know Him.” (Philippians 3:10)

Hindrances to Finishing Strong

Some of the common obstacles that can prevent us from finishing well include:

• Comparison.
• Discontentment with one’s calling.
• Lust for material things.
• Pursuing success at all costs.

Decide today that nothing will stop you from finishing strong. Ask God to help you overcome these hindrances.

Bible Reading: 1 Kings 11:6-19; Philippians 3:10, Matthew 27:5.

Reflection Question:
What are the hindrances to finishing strong that you can observe in your life now? What steps will you take to deal with them?