FINISHING STRONG

FINISHING STRONG

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 2 Timothy 4:7
"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith."

Supporting Texts:
Ecclesiastes 7:8
1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Philippians 3:13-14
Hebrews 12:1-2
Matthew 25:21

INTRODUCTION:
Finishing strong is God’s desire for every believer. It is not enough to start well; we must press on to complete our race in faith and obedience. The Christian journey is marked by battles, endurance, and persistence, but the reward is great for those who remain steadfast to the end. This sermon explores how to fight the good fight, finish well, and keep the faith.

1. THE ESSENCE OF FINISHING STRONG

Starting the race is good, but finishing well is the ultimate goal.

a) A Fulfilled Life:
Finishing strong brings fulfilment and glorifies God (John 17:4).

b) A Crown Awaits:
There is a reward for those who persevere (2 Timothy 4:8).

c) Testimony of Faithfulness:
Finishing well is evidence of a life lived for Christ (Matthew 25:21).

d) Inspiration to Others:
A strong finish inspires others to remain steadfast (Hebrews 12:1).

Biblical Example:
Paul finished his course with joy and left a legacy of faithfulness (Acts 20:24).

2. REQUIREMENTS FOR FINISHING STRONG

There are principles and disciplines necessary to complete the race of life victoriously.

a) Stay Focused:
Avoid distractions and keep your eyes on Christ (Hebrews 12:2).

b) Be Disciplined:
Self-control and perseverance are key to finishing well (1 Corinthians 9:25-27).

c) Remain Faithful in Service:
Stay committed to your God-given assignments (1 Corinthians 4:2).

d) Overcome Challenges:
Trials are part of the journey, but God gives strength to overcome (James 1:2-4).

Biblical Example:
Nehemiah finished the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s wall despite opposition (Nehemiah 6:15-16).

3. OBSTACLES TO FINISHING STRONG

Identifying and overcoming barriers is crucial for success.

a) Sin and Worldliness:
Sin weighs us down and hinders our progress (Hebrews 12:1).

b) Discouragement:
The enemy uses discouragement to weaken our resolve (Galatians 6:9).

c) Lack of Vision:
Without a clear purpose, it is easy to stray (Proverbs 29:18).

d) Neglecting Spiritual Growth:
Stagnation leads to spiritual decline (2 Peter 3:18).

Biblical Example:
Demas forsook Paul because he loved the present world (2 Timothy 4:10).

4. STRENGTHENING YOUR FAITH FOR THE FINISH

Faith is the foundation for finishing strong.

a) Feed on God’s Word:
The Word strengthens and renews our faith (Romans 10:17).

b) Depend on the Holy Spirit:
He empowers us to finish well (Zechariah 4:6).

c) Stay in Fellowship:
Believers encourage one another to keep going (Hebrews 10:25).

d) Live a Life of Prayer:
Prayer sustains and aligns us with God’s will (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

Biblical Example:
Jesus finished His work on the cross through total dependence on the Father (John 19:30).

5. REWARDS FOR FINISHING STRONG

God honours those who complete their race with faithfulness.

a) Eternal Life:
The greatest reward is eternal fellowship with God (John 14:3).

b) A Crown of Righteousness:
For those who love His appearing (2 Timothy 4:8).

c) Divine Commendation:
“Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21).

d) Everlasting Glory:
A place in God’s eternal kingdom (Revelation 3:21).

Biblical Example:
Stephen, the first martyr, finished strong and received a heavenly welcome (Acts 7:55-56).

CONCLUSION:
Finishing strong is not automatic; it requires intentionality, faith, and reliance on God’s grace. As we fight the good fight, run the race, and keep the faith, we position ourselves for an eternal reward. Let us determine to finish our course, glorifying God with every step we take until the very end.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me the grace to finish my race strong.

2. Father, help me to overcome every distraction in my journey.

3. Lord, strengthen my faith in times of challenges and trials.

4. Father, grant me the discipline to stay focused on my divine purpose.

5. Lord, renew my strength daily to run this race of faith.

6. Father, help me to keep the faith and remain steadfast in You.

7. Lord, shield me from sin and worldliness that can derail my journey.

8. Father, empower me by Your Holy Spirit to overcome every obstacle.

9. Lord, let my life inspire others to follow You faithfully.

10. Father, let me finish strong and receive the crown of righteousness.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. I declare that you will finish strong in the race of life.

2. The grace to overcome every challenge is released upon you now.

3. You will not be distracted or discouraged in your walk with God.

4. Your faith will not fail, even in the face of trials.

5. You will receive divine strength to fulfil your destiny.

6. The Lord will keep you from falling and present you faultless at His coming.

7. Every obstacle in your path is removed in the name of Jesus.

8. You will leave a legacy of faith and obedience for generations.

9. The crown of righteousness is awaiting you as you remain steadfast.

10. You will hear “Well done, good and faithful servant” at the end of your journey.