Staying Strong: Finishing Well, Not Just Starting Right
Introduction
Anyone can start a race. It’s those who finish well that make the real impact.
The Christian life is not a sprint — it’s a marathon. And in this final lesson, we’re going to talk about how to stay strong through the ups and downs, so your faith endures and your story brings God glory.
You weren’t just called to begin this journey. You were called to run with endurance and finish well.
You’ve Got to Stay Rooted
Staying strong means staying rooted in the Word, in prayer, and in God’s presence.
“Remain in me, and I will remain in you… If you remain in me and follow my teachings, you can ask anything you want, and it will be given to you.” – John 15:4, 7 (NCV)
Don’t Let the Fire Go Out
When you first came to Christ, your heart probably burned with excitement. But life, distractions, or even discouragement can try to dim the flame. The good news? Holy Spirit is the one who keeps the fire burning — you just have to keep adding wood.
“Never be lazy in your work, but serve the Lord enthusiastically.” – Romans 12:11 (NCV)
“Fan into flame the gift of God…” – 2 Timothy 1:6 (NCV)
Prepare for Resistance
Staying strong doesn’t mean everything will be easy. In fact, the Bible promises we’ll face challenges, but we don’t face them alone.
“So put on the full armor of God… Then you will be able to stand strong against the devil’s evil plans.” – Ephesians 6:11 (NCV)
Stay Surrounded
You need community to keep going — people who will pray for you, challenge you, remind you of who you are.
“Let us hold firmly to the hope that we have confessed… Let us think about each other and help each other to show love and do good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:23–24 (NCV)
Keep Your Eyes on the Prize
There will be moments when you feel tired, discouraged, or off track. In those moments, fix your eyes on Jesus, the one who started this journey in you — and who will finish it.
“Let us run the race that is before us and never give up… Let us look only to Jesus, the One who began our faith and who makes it perfect.” – Hebrews 12:1–2 (NCV)
Final Thought: God Finishes What He Starts
You didn’t save yourself — and you won’t finish this alone. God is the author AND the finisher of your faith.
“God began doing a good work in you, and I am sure he will continue it until it is finished…” – Philippians 1:6 (NCV)
Stay in the Word. Stay in prayer. Stay in community. Stay filled with the Spirit. And stay the course.
Call to Endurance
“Father, thank You for starting this work in me. Help me to finish well. Strengthen my faith, keep my fire burning, and surround me with people who will walk with me. I want to be faithful to the end. In Jesus’ name, amen.”