Seeing It Through

Ruth

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

—2 Timothy 4:7

Assembly projects don’t go so well in my house. We start with great enthusiasm and just about call it quits thirty minutes later when we realize how difficult the TV cabinet or desk is to put together. We always manage to finish, but it’s not easy!

A story in the Old Testament book of Numbers reminds me that between starting and finishing, it’s in the “middle” when we often find it most difficult to endure and remain faithful. The writer described the stages of Israel’s journey out of their slavery in Egypt. Step-by-step we’re told how they started, progressed, and finished. I love the picture we find in Numbers 33:3. We’re told that “the Israelites set out from Rameses on the fifteenth day of the first month, the day after the Passover. They marched out defiantly in full view of all the Egyptians.”

At the beginning of their journey, they “marched out defiantly.” They were ready to go. Energized for the trek. Confident of the Lord’s deliverance and direction. At the beginning, they were most enthusiastic about walking with God. And yet we know their confidence and defiance didn’t last long.

They would grow discouraged. Confused by what God was doing, they would question their decision to step out in faith. They would grumble, complain, and eventually wish they could turn back toward where they came from. They were great at the start, but not so good at the middle or end, wandering way longer than they had to. A strong commitment to endurance would have served them well.

Endurance is a theme we see throughout the Bible. Toward the end of his life, the apostle Paul reflected on his journey of faith and proclaimed, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). While far from perfect, he had endured, remained faithful, and experienced the goodness of staying the course.

Where is God calling you to stick it out? Have you started something with great enthusiasm but are now struggling to endure? Don’t give up, my friend! Don’t miss what God has for you by quitting too soon.

Father, make firm my steps. Keep me from growing weary in what You have called me to. Give me Your grace not only to start well, but to remain faithful. Teach me to humbly walk in faithfulness so I might finish the task You have called me to. In Jesus’ name, amen.

What are you most tempted to quit right now because it’s hard?

Where do you believe God is calling you to stay the course?