Bible Reading: Psalm 18, 19; Acts 20:20-38.
Memory Verse: “But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.” Acts 20:24 (KJV)
I attended a polytechnic for my National Diploma several years ago and there was a classmate of mine, who I adjudged decent, of average intelligence, and determined but had a number of domestic challenges which affected her performance in school. She was subsequently rusticated on account of her poor performance. She tried all she could to change the decision but it was too late. She could not finish her course. She had to go home unaccomplished! How sad she felt when she had to leave the campus.
That was a course that she could re-enroll either in the same institution or any other one. What about the course that there will be no alternative. The course of life has no alternative once you die. It is therefore essential that you prepare for it and ensure you have the desired result.
Apostle Paul was giving his send forth speech to them at Ephesus where he told them that preaching the gospel has seen him through several afflictions and that he was going to Jerusalem where the Holy Spirit had told him bonds and afflictions awaited him! (Acts 20:22-23). Despite these, he said in Acts 20:24 (KJV), “But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.” He was more concerned about preaching the gospel and finishing well.
What challenges do you face, what persecutions, trials and temptations do you face compared with Apostle Paul? You need to recognise that nothing is comparable to finishing this course well inspite of the costs that may be involved. Remain steadfast and commit your situation to the hands of God remembering His words in Jeremiah 33:3 (KJV), “Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.” And remember the words of David in Psalm 37:25 (KJV), “I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.” God will surely answer you though it may tarry.
Prayer point: Father in the mighty name of Jesus, please let me finish my course well and strong no matter the challenges.
Bro. Biodun Oyapero