Podcasts about finish well

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Best podcasts about finish well

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Latest podcast episodes about finish well

Verbatim Word with Justin Gerry
S5E55 John 21:15-25 FINISH | Finish Well: What Jesus Told Peter by the Campfire | John 21 Explained

Verbatim Word with Justin Gerry

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2026 38:41


What if your story didn't have to end the way it started?This episode explores Peter's denial, Jesus' restoration by the campfire, the call to “Follow Me,” and what it means to finish well when we've failed, struggled, or wandered. This final chapter of John's Gospel reveals a Savior who gently restores bruised hearts, gives purpose after failure, and faithfully leads His people to the finish line.We'll explore:Why Jesus cooked breakfast for the disciples before confronting PeterThe meaning of “Do you love Me?” asked three timesThe difference between agape and phileo loveHow Jesus restores broken people instead of discarding themWhat it means to finish well and keep following ChristWhy your failure is not the final chapter of your lifeWhether you're carrying regret, feeling spiritually exhausted, or wondering if God can still use you, this conversation points to the hope that Jesus is committed to bringing His people to the finish line.BIBLE VERSE References: JOHN 21:15-25 | MATTTHEW 12:18-20 | 1 KINGS 17:4-6 | 2 TIMOTHY 3:1-5 | MATTHEW 26:33 | DEUTERONOMY 5:6 | DEUTERONOMY 10:12 | DEUTERONOMY 5:6 | DEUTERONOMY 11:1, 13 | DEUTERONOMY 11:22-23 | MARK 12:29–30 | JOHN 14:15 | MATTHEW 10:42 | LUKE 9:23 | 1 CORINTHIANS 15:31 | JUDE 1:24-25 | ACTS 12:1-19 | *Music tracks by Blue Dot Sessions titled “Glass Beads” and “Come As You Were” were featured in this episode

Trinity Community Church Podcast
How To Finish Well

Trinity Community Church Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 26, 2026 41:34


Join us today as Pastor John concludes his series "When God Speaks" with today's message "How To Finish Well" giving us fifteen principles to help you finish well. Key Passage: Deuteronomy 32:48-52; 34:1-8. July 26th, 2026

Sermons By Antioch Community Church in Waltham, MA (Boston Area)
7.19.2026 // Mark Buckner // How to Finish Well? (Hebrews 12:1-6)

Sermons By Antioch Community Church in Waltham, MA (Boston Area)

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2026 42:03


Calvary Church with Skip Heitzig Audio Podcast
Learn to Spot the Scammers!

Calvary Church with Skip Heitzig Audio Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2026 62:27


I. Red Flag #1: A Denial of AccountabilityII. Red Flag #2: A Deterioration of MoralityIII. Red Flag #3: A Deconstruction of BeliefIV. Green Flag: A Determination to Finish Well

Living with Heart: From Birth to Death
125 - How Do We Finish Well?

Living with Heart: From Birth to Death

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2026 35:31 Transcription Available


The "Living with Heart" Podcast is brought to you by Chip Dodd Resources (www.chipdodd.com) and The Voice of the Heart Center (vothcenter.com). You can connect with Dr. Chip Dodd at chip@chipdodd.com. Contact Bryan Barley for coaching at bryan@vothcenter.com. 

Northlake Bible Church
Finishing Well for the Glory of God | 2 Chronicles 26 | Vikram Pimplekar

Northlake Bible Church

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2026 47:23


As believers, we are called to Finish Well, and with God's help, we can.   Preached on July 12, 2026

One Community Church
Focus Your Faith - Finish Well | A Message from Jada Edwards

One Community Church

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 5, 2026 59:53


In this message of the “Faith that Shows Up” series, Jada Edwards urges believers to awaken and grow in our faith. Faith is a gift from God, which anchors us even when the path ahead is unclear. And we are encouraged to lay aside distractions that weaken spiritual focus and fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith - in order to grow in faith. The ultimate goal of our faith is to glorify God, and this sermon inspires a determined, unwavering pursuit of God's purpose so we can finish well.

Magnificent Life
Start Wise, Finish Well!

Magnificent Life

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2026 4:03


Start Wise, Finish Well! "Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding." Proverbs 4:7 In our journey of faith, starting with wisdom ensures that we remain anchored in the truth of God's Word. Proverbs 4:7 tells us, “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it costs all you have, get understanding.” This scripture reminds us that wisdom is not merely an accessory to our lives but the very foundation upon which we build our purpose. Through prayer and reliance on God, we can seek clarity in our life's assignments, much like Solomon did when he approached the Lord at Gibeon. When Solomon asked God for wisdom rather than wealth or long life, he exemplified the heart of one seeking divine clarity (1 Kings 3:5-14). His humble request delights God, and Solomon understands that "Wisdom is a gift waiting to be unwrapped; when we seek it with an open heart, God generously lights the path ahead." Here lies the secret: clarity begins where pride ends. We must lay aside our notions of self-sufficiency and reach for the wisdom that only God can provide. James 1:5 says, "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you". In every season of life, we are called to start wisely and finish well. Colossians 4:17 reminds us to be aware of the assignments we've received from the Lord so we can fulfill them diligently. “Wisdom is vision with obedience.” This requires not only seeing our path clearly but also having the courage to walk in obedience to God's call. Each step taken in faith leads us closer to fulfilling our divine purpose. As we cultivate this wisdom, let us hold fast to the truth that our lives are not just about beginnings; they are also about how we finish. It's not enough to embark on a journey; we must do so with a heart committed to God's grace so we can complete our assignments well. Amen. Psalm 37:5 says, "Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass." Amen. Prayer for the Day!Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of wisdom that guides me every day. Lord, give me the clarity to discern Your purpose for my life, the courage to obey Your commands, and the grace to strive until the very end. Help me to start wise and finish well, keeping my heart and mind focused on You. May my journey reflect Your glory and inspire others to seek Your wisdom. In Jesus' name, Amen. https://maglife.org

Cornerstone Chapel - Audio Podcast

It's not important how well you start but how well you finish. Uzziah, the second longest reigning king in Judah's history, started well but had a very tragic end to his life. Let's learn from Uzziah's failure and finish well to the glory of God.

Emmanuel Christian Center
Finish Well | The Future Is Ancient | Pastor Nathan Grams

Emmanuel Christian Center

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2026 45:43


Finish Well | The Future Is Ancient | Pastor Nathan Grams by Emmanuel Christian Center

Crossroads Ministries
Men Who Finish Well - Video

Crossroads Ministries

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2026 73:26


Crossroad Ministries Live Service

Crossroads Ministries
Men Who Finish Well - Audio

Crossroads Ministries

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2026 73:26


Crossroad Ministries Live Service

Crossroads Ministries
Men Who Finish Well - Audio

Crossroads Ministries

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2026 73:26


Crossroad Ministries Live Service

Crossroads Ministries
Men Who Finish Well - Video

Crossroads Ministries

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2026 73:26


Crossroad Ministries Live Service

The Tom Short Show
You Started Well; Will You Finish Well? | Hebrews 10:32-29

The Tom Short Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2026 19:18


God has given us promises that have not yet been fulfilled, but they will be IF we don't give up. This seems obvious, but we tend to forget it, get discouraged, and lose heart. Join me for today's Daily Word & Prayer to learn more.Scripture Used in Today's MessageHebrews 10:32-39To find Tom on Instagram, Facebook, TiKTok, and elsewhere, go to linktr.ee/tomthepreache

The One You Feed
How to Tame Your Advice Monster and Become a Better Listener | Michael Bungay Stanier

The One You Feed

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 64:57


In this episode, Michael Bungay Stanier, author of the bestselling The Coaching Habit, discusses how to tame your advice monster and become a better listener. Michael shares the surprising story of self-publishing after multiple rejections, and discusses core coaching principles like staying curious longer and asking better questions. He explores paradoxes in coaching, including balancing humility with confidence and being both fierce and loving. Michael also reflects on personal growth, integrating one's shadow side, and maintaining perspective after achieving extraordinary success. ⁠A Weekly Bite of Wisdom:⁠ Want to go deeper with the ideas we explore on The One You Feed? Every Wednesday, Eric shares a short, practical email that turns insights about mental health, relationships, purpose, habits, and personal growth into simple practices you can use right away. You'll also receive our Weekend Podcast Playlist featuring a recap of the week's episodes. It's free, takes about a minute to read, and is enjoyed by thousands of readers each week. Sign up at ⁠oneyoufeed.net/newsletter.⁠ Exciting News!!! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life is out NOW! Order today!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Key Takeaways: The 10th anniversary of “The Coaching Habit” and its journey from rejection to self-publishing. The philosophy of coaching and the importance of asking good questions. The concept of taming the “advice monster” and the value of staying curious. The paradoxes in coaching, such as balancing confidence with humility. The significance of recognizing and integrating one's shadow side. The role of presence and deep listening in effective coaching. The importance of being fierce and loving in relationships. The challenges of personal growth and the internal conflicts we face. The unpredictability of success in writing and the nature of creative work. The idea of holding outcomes lightly while caring deeply about one's work. For full show notes:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you enjoyed this conversation with Michael Bungay Stanier, check out these other episodes: Starting Well to Finish Well with Michael Bungay Stanier The Coaching Habit with Michael Bungay Stanier By purchasing products and/or services from our sponsors, you are helping to support The One You Feed, and we greatly appreciate it. Thank you! This episode is sponsored by: ⁠⁠⁠Brodo Broth⁠⁠⁠: Shop the best broth on the planet with Brodo.  Head to ⁠⁠⁠Brodo.com/TOYF⁠⁠⁠ for 20% off your first subscription order and use code TOYF for an additional $10 off. ⁠⁠Quince:⁠⁠⁠ Refresh your wardrobe with Quince by going to ⁠⁠⁠Quince.com/feed⁠⁠⁠ for free shipping and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too. Shopify – The commerce platform that helps you build, grow, and manage your business all in one place. Start your $1/month trial at shopify.com/feed. David Protein bars deliver up to 28g of protein for just 150 calories—without sacrificing taste! For a limited time, our listeners can receive this special deal: buy 4 cartons and get the 5th free when you go to www.davidprotein.com/FEED ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Aura Frames⁠⁠: Named #1 by Wirecutter, you can save on the gifts moms love by visiting AuraFrames.com. For a limited time, listeners can get 25 dollars off their best-selling Carver Mat frame with code FEED. Support the show by mentioning us at checkout! ⁠⁠Rocket Money⁠⁠ Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at ⁠⁠rocketmoney.com/feed⁠⁠. ⁠⁠Taskrabbit:⁠⁠ When life happens, your to-do list grows. Get ahead of it now and get fifteen dollars off your first task at ⁠⁠Taskrabbit.com⁠⁠ or on the Taskrabbit app using promo code FEED. Taskers book up fast, especially for same-day tasks, so book trusted home help today. ⁠⁠Hello Fresh⁠⁠ – Get 10 free meals + a FREE Zwilling Knife (a $144.99 value) on your third box. Offer valid while supplies last. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

CrossPoint Community Church
A Faithful House: "Finish Well" (2 Timothy 4)

CrossPoint Community Church

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 51:57


5.24.26//Jake Rainwater

Northview Community Church
Galatians 4:8-20 - Come Back - Video

Northview Community Church

Play Episode Listen Later May 31, 2026 41:55


What does it mean that the man who wrote "It Is Well With My Soul" didn't finish well, and what does it have to do with our faith today?

Northview Community Church
Galatians 4:8-20 - Come Back - Audio

Northview Community Church

Play Episode Listen Later May 31, 2026 41:55


What does it mean that the man who wrote "It Is Well With My Soul" didn't finish well, and what does it have to do with our faith today?

Northview Community Church
Galatians 4:8-20 - Come Back - PDF

Northview Community Church

Play Episode Listen Later May 31, 2026


What does it mean that the man who wrote "It Is Well With My Soul" didn't finish well, and what does it have to do with our faith today?

Northview Community Church
Galatians 4:8-20 - Come Back - PDF

Northview Community Church

Play Episode Listen Later May 31, 2026


What does it mean that the man who wrote "It Is Well With My Soul" didn't finish well, and what does it have to do with our faith today?

Northview Community Church
Galatians 4:8-20 - Come Back - Audio

Northview Community Church

Play Episode Listen Later May 31, 2026 41:55


What does it mean that the man who wrote "It Is Well With My Soul" didn't finish well, and what does it have to do with our faith today?

Northview Community Church
Galatians 4:8-20 - Come Back - Video

Northview Community Church

Play Episode Listen Later May 31, 2026 41:55


What does it mean that the man who wrote "It Is Well With My Soul" didn't finish well, and what does it have to do with our faith today?

Bible in One Year
Day 144: How to Finish Well

Bible in One Year

Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2026 29:07


Proverbs 12:28-13:9, 1 Samuel 14:24-15:35, John 14:1-31. This is my ambition in life I want to complete the work God has given me to do

Youth BiOY
Day 144: How to Finish Well

Youth BiOY

Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2026 15:21


Proverbs 12:28,13:1-6, 1 Samuel 15:12, John 14:1-27. This is my ambition in life I want to complete the work God has given me to do

Bible In One Year Express
Day 144: How to Finish Well

Bible In One Year Express

Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2026 14:51


Proverbs 12:28,13:1-6, 1 Samuel 15:12, John 14:1-27. This is my ambition in life I want to complete the work God has given me to do

Pastor Steve Thompson's podcast
Episode 301: I Thess. 5:23-28, Finishing Up with Keys to Finish Well, 4.26.26

Pastor Steve Thompson's podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2026 40:50


There are two similar prayers that have the same theme of sanctification like two bookends.  What is found in between the bookends is instructional.  There is a different outlook for fellow believers in death.  As all of Paul's letters end, this one also finishing with God's grace.

Q on queue
Q on Queue 113: Finish Well, Not Just Fast

Q on queue

Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2026 17:51


Send us a messageAs the finish line of a demanding season comes into view, it's easy to slip into survival mode - just trying to make it through the week, the month, or the school year. But in this third episode of the "Refuel" series, we talk about the difference between simply finishing fast and actually finishing well. Because when we rush emotionally toward the end, we often stop being fully present in the moments, relationships, and responsibilities still right in front of us.This episode is an honest and encouraging conversation about staying intentional when you're tired, resisting the urge to emotionally check out, and learning how to close a season with presence, gratitude, and purpose. Whether you're in education, ministry, leadership, or just navigating a demanding season of life, this conversation will challenge you to slow down enough to notice what still matters before the season is over.

Crooked Creek Baptist Church
Run Together to Finish Well

Crooked Creek Baptist Church

Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2026 17:44


Salt Church UF
1 Kings 11: King Solomon (It's Hard to Finish Well)

Salt Church UF

Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2026 47:12


Listen to Josiah preach on the life of King Solomon as we continue our “Kings” Summer Series. Through Solomon's story, we see why it's often easier to start well than to finish well. Listen to this message to see how we can overcome the threats that pull our hearts away from God so that we can finish our race well.

Foundation Christian Ministries - online media
Fight To Finish Well - Audio

Foundation Christian Ministries - online media

Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2026 38:54


Organization: Foundation Christian Ministries Speaker: Pastor Chris Pena City: Bastrop State: Tx

finish well state tx
Foundation Christian Ministries - online media

Organization: Foundation Christian Ministries Speaker: Pastor Chris Pena City: Bastrop State: Tx

finish well state tx
Lausanne Movement Podcast
Why Christian Leaders Fall—and What It Takes to Finish Well with Malcolm Webber

Lausanne Movement Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2026 61:58 Transcription Available


Why do gifted Christian leaders fall—and what kind of formation helps us finish well? In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, Jason Watson speaks with Malcolm Webber about why so many Christian leaders fall—and why the answer is not simply better information, stronger gifting, or more ministry activity. Malcolm invites us back to Jesus' way of forming leaders through union with Christ, accountable community, tested character, God-given calling, and Spirit-shaped competencies. Main Points Leadership failure is often a formation crisis. Malcolm argues that many leaders fall because the deep issues of their lives were never addressed. Jesus shows us how leaders are formed. Jesus developed leaders through relationships, teaching, assignments, pressure, failure, and mission. Union with Christ comes first. Healthy leadership begins with abiding dependence on Jesus, not gifting, platform, productivity, or ambition. Leaders need an accountable community. Spiritual mothers and fathers, mentors, correction, nurture, and encouragement are essential for finishing well. The 5Cs offer a framework for healthy leadership. Christ, community, character, calling, and competencies help leaders pursue holistic growth. Finishing well requires intentional rhythms. Malcolm urges leaders to pursue personal growth, choose real accountability, practice spiritual rest, and receive wisdom from previous generations. Call to Action Subscribe to the Lausanne Movement Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a pastor, ministry leader, mentor, or younger leader who is seeking to lead from a healthier place. Then take one practical step this week: name a spiritual mother, father, mentor, or trusted friend who can walk with you in honest accountability. Lausanne Movement Podcast Archive The Making of a Leader: How God Forms Character, Calling, and Influence Over a Lifetime with Richard Clinton The Art of Whole Life Mentorship: An Interview with Ole-Magnus Olasfrud Leading with Vulnerability & Humility: Delphine Fanfon on African Leadership, Identity, and Purpose Links & Resources LeaderSource The 5Cs of Healthy Christian Leadership LeaderSource Resources LeaderSource Books 5C Checkpoint LeaderSource App LeaderSource YouTube Channel Malcolm's Musings on Substack Lausanne Action Hub Guest Bio Malcolm Webber is the founder and executive director of LeaderSource, an international ministry focused on developing healthy Christian leaders and strengthening churches around the world. Originally from Australia, Malcolm came to Christ in 1980 and has spent more than 35 years working alongside Christian leaders globally, with a particular focus on Christ-centered, holistic leader development. He holds a PhD in organizational leadership, has written around 50 books, and is also the Founding Pastor Emeritus of Living Faith Fellowship in Indiana, USA. Through LeaderSource, his writing, teaching, and resources, Malcolm continues to equip leaders to grow in union with Christ, accountable community, character, calling, and practical leadership capacity.

The Crossing Life Church Sermons
Finish Well in Finishing Work

The Crossing Life Church Sermons

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2026 62:50


Josiah Armstrong

Answers with Bayless Conley
Lessons From Philippians: Faith to Finish Well

Answers with Bayless Conley

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2026 28:22


Too often today, people quit before their race is finished. Some let fear, hardship, or even foolish choices rob them of the long, fruitful life God intends. Continuing in his series from Philippians with the message "Faith to Finish Well," Pastor Bayless shares how you can live with the same confidence of finishing well that the apostle Paul had—even while he was in prison. You'll discover how focusing on the eternal rewards the Lord will hand out in heaven can give you the strength to endure even the toughest challenges. Be inspired to keep the faith, finish your race, and live with confidence that there is a reward laid up for you in heaven!

The 95 Podcast: Conversations for Small-Church Pastors
Pastoral Retirement: How to Finish Well and Start a New Season of Ministry (w/ Doug Bullock) - Episode 333

The 95 Podcast: Conversations for Small-Church Pastors

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2026 51:35


Doug Bullock directs the aftercare at the Retreat at Church Creek, a ministry that serves pastors, encouraging them to live well and finish strong. Simultaneously, he has been pursuing his doctorate in pastoral re?rement. After graduating from Dallas Theological Seminary, Doug previously served as the Lead Pastor of Eastern Hills Bible Church in Manlius, NY. Upon retiring from that ministry, he began investing in younger pastors and encouraging other older pastors to join him. Yet strangely, at the same time, he began to observe the very questions about which he now writes, in his life and the lives of others.On today's 95Podcast, discover how pastors can prepare for retirement, deal with loss, and continue impactful ministry. Doug Bullock, author of New Dawn, shares insights on pastoral health, mentoring, and honoring both retiring and younger pastors in the local church.Show Notes: https://95network.org/95podcast-333-summary-pastoral-retirement-how-to-finish-well-and-start-a-new-season-of-ministry-w-doug-bullock-episode-333/Support the show

New Covenant OPC Sermon Podcast
Galatians 5:7-12 Finish Well (April 12, 2025 AM, Dr. Michael Grasso)

New Covenant OPC Sermon Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 12, 2026 37:28


"It is not enough to begin well. By God's grace, we must finish well.In this sermon on Galatians 5:7–12, Paul's burden becomes deeply personal and urgent: “You were running well. Who hindered you?” The Galatians had begun in the truth of the gospel, but false teachers were pulling them away from justification by faith.This passage is a sobering warning about:beginning well but failing to finishdoctrinal compromisethe spreading danger of false teachingthe seriousness of those who trouble Christ's churchthe offense of the cross that faithful preaching must preservePaul reminds us that a little leaven leavens the whole lump. False doctrine never remains small. It spreads, corrupts, and leads people away from the God who called them.At the same time, this text offers hope: God uses the preaching of his Word to keep his people on the path of life. The way to finish well is to hold fast to the true gospel without wavering.May it never be said of us merely that we began well, but rather that by grace we endured faithfully to the end.#Galatians #FinishWell #Perseverance #JustificationByFaith #FalseTeaching #Gospel #Faithfulness #ChristianLife"

Faith Assembly of God
To Finish Well (2 Timothy 4:6-8)

Faith Assembly of God

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 12, 2026 43:30


Sermon Series Podcasts
Remember Well, Walk Well, Finish Well

Sermon Series Podcasts

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2026


Message from Pastor Nick Person on March 29, 2026

WCBC Chapel Podcast
Dr. Rick Houk - Finish Well

WCBC Chapel Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2026 41:47


Dr. Rick Houk - Finish Well by West Coast Baptist College

finish well houk west coast baptist college
Immanuel Baptist Church Pulpit Series
Healthy Churches Finish Well - Sermons

Immanuel Baptist Church Pulpit Series

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2026


Message from Greg Neal on February 26, 2026

Live the Bible with Wayne Stiles
#352 - How to Finish Well

Live the Bible with Wayne Stiles

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2026 52:01


 How do you want to finish your life? That's not an easy question to think about. When we're young, we don't think about it at all. And the older we get, the more distracted we get. Some folks would love to be distracted all the way to the grave.But God wants so much more for you than that. SO much more....In this episode of Live the Bible, we're opening God's Word to 2 Timothy to uncover the secret to living and finishing well. Support the show

Daily Devotions From Greg Laurie
Finish Well | Ecclesiastes 7:8

Daily Devotions From Greg Laurie

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 3:43


“The end of a thing is better than its beginning; the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.” (Ecclesiastes 7:8 NKJV) The poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow said, “Great is the art of beginning, but greater is the art of ending.” And Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, wrote, “The end of a thing is better than its beginning” (Ecclesiastes 7:8 NKJV). Starting strong is overrated. Take sports, for example. Few baseball statisticians keep track of which team was ahead after the first inning. What matters is the final score. Likewise, starting strong is overrated in our spiritual journey. The Bible gives us examples of people who started strong in their service to the Lord, only to falter later. Scripture doesn’t celebrate these early successes; instead, it uses the people’s experiences as cautionary tales for other believers. One of the most memorable of these cautionary tales is that of Samson. Samson had a great beginning. He was blessed with superhuman qualities. Physically, there was no one stronger. We get a sense of his power in Judges 14:5–6: “As Samson and his parents were going down to Timnah, a young lion suddenly attacked Samson near the vineyards of Timnah. At that moment the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon him, and he ripped the lion’s jaws apart with his bare hands. He did it as easily as if it were a young goat” (NLT). Samson was a one-man army, a judge chosen by God to make a difference on behalf of His people. On one occasion Samson killed thirty Philistines—the enemies of the Israelites—to settle a bet. On another occasion he killed 1,000 Philistine warriors on the battlefield with a bone that he picked up from the ground. He wasn’t a fictitious superhero; he was the real deal. For a time, Samson was a mighty man of God. And for a time, he was even a true world changer. Eventually, however, the world began to change him. Samson turned his back on God. He had an amazing beginning but a tragic ending. One day your life will be summed up in a paragraph or two on a bulletin that will be handed out at your memorial service. No one will care about how much money you made or how much stuff you owned. No one will care how high you climbed in your profession. Instead, they’ll talk about what kind of person you were. We don’t decide the day of our death any more than we decided the day of our birth. But we do determine the spiritual state we’ll be in when we die. God wants us to be close to Him. God wants us in friendship and fellowship and intimacy with Him. But it’s our choice whether to have a relationship with the Lord or not to have a relationship with Him. We must choose wisely so that we finish well. Reflection question: How do you want to finish your walk with the Lord? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Daily Devotions From Greg Laurie
Finish Well | Ecclesiastes 7:8

Daily Devotions From Greg Laurie

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 4:00


“The end of a thing is better than its beginning; the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.” (Ecclesiastes 7:8 NKJV) The poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow said, “Great is the art of beginning, but greater is the art of ending.” And Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, wrote, “The end of a thing is better than its beginning” (Ecclesiastes 7:8 NKJV). Starting strong is overrated. Take sports, for example. Few baseball statisticians keep track of which team was ahead after the first inning. What matters is the final score. Likewise, starting strong is overrated in our spiritual journey. The Bible gives us examples of people who started strong in their service to the Lord, only to falter later. Scripture doesn’t celebrate these early successes; instead, it uses the people’s experiences as cautionary tales for other believers. One of the most memorable of these cautionary tales is that of Samson. Samson had a great beginning. He was blessed with superhuman qualities. Physically, there was no one stronger. We get a sense of his power in Judges 14:5–6: “As Samson and his parents were going down to Timnah, a young lion suddenly attacked Samson near the vineyards of Timnah. At that moment the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon him, and he ripped the lion’s jaws apart with his bare hands. He did it as easily as if it were a young goat” (NLT). Samson was a one-man army, a judge chosen by God to make a difference on behalf of His people. On one occasion Samson killed thirty Philistines—the enemies of the Israelites—to settle a bet. On another occasion he killed 1,000 Philistine warriors on the battlefield with a bone that he picked up from the ground. He wasn’t a fictitious superhero; he was the real deal. For a time, Samson was a mighty man of God. And for a time, he was even a true world changer. Eventually, however, the world began to change him. Samson turned his back on God. He had an amazing beginning but a tragic ending. One day your life will be summed up in a paragraph or two on a bulletin that will be handed out at your memorial service. No one will care about how much money you made or how much stuff you owned. No one will care how high you climbed in your profession. Instead, they’ll talk about what kind of person you were. We don’t decide the day of our death any more than we decided the day of our birth. But we do determine the spiritual state we’ll be in when we die. God wants us to be close to Him. God wants us in friendship and fellowship and intimacy with Him. But it’s our choice whether to have a relationship with the Lord or not to have a relationship with Him. We must choose wisely so that we finish well. Reflection question: How do you want to finish your walk with the Lord? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.