Points to Ponder
In our walk with Christ it is important to start well and it is imperative to “Finish Well”.
Paul encourages Timothy to be steadfast in 1 Timothy 6:11-14
But you, Timothy, are a man of God; so run from all these evil things. Pursue righteousness and a godly life, along with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness. Fight the good fight for the true faith. Hold tightly to the eternal life to which God has called you, which you have declared so well before many witnesses. And I charge you before God, who gives life to all, and before Christ Jesus, who gave a good testimony before Pontius Pilate, that you obey this command without wavering Then no one can find fault with you from now until or Lord Jesus Christ comes again.
New Living Translation
Kevin Grant shared his thoughts on finishing well by speaking of Christ’s trial.
If you review the trial of Jesus in the Gospel of John you will see how Jesus did not plead for His own life but witnessed to Pilate, knowing that He was going to the cross. You will find:
- Jesus was in control of the interview
- He showed compassion as He stood before those who would condemn Him.
- He gave honest answers when Pilate asked honest questions
- He is our example on how to finish well.
John 19:8 (New Living translation) “When Pilate heard this he was more frightened than ever. He took Jesus back into the headquarters again and asked Him, “Where are you from?” But Jesus gave no answer”
Pilot had his chance and failed to accept Jesus for who He was. But it was too late for him. God won’t always strive with us. We must not be too late. Accept Him while you can!
In our walk with Christ it is important to submit to and honor truth:
John 14:6 Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through Me”
John 8:32 And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Psalms 119:160 The very essence of your words is truth; all your just regulations will stand forever.”
Psalms 145:18 The Lord is close to all who call on Him, yes, to all who call on Him in truth.”
Proverbs 12:19 Truthful words stand the test of time, but lies are soon exposed.”
New Living Translation
Kevin Grant shared his thoughts on Jesus’ example:
Jesus Showed us how to submit.
- He had an option. He could have called thousands of angels to fight for Him but he chose not to
- He prayed “Not My Will but Thine.”
- Prayer didn’t change His circumstances, but it changed Him.
Jesus knew the truth and would not exchange anything for it.