Are you on track to finish strong?

How can you tell if you on are the track to finish strong? Another way to look at it: Are you on track to be a Paul or Demas?

There are two kinds of people in this world, the Pauls and the Demas’. 

You may be more familiar with Paul, the apostle who wrote most of the New Testament. However, we learn a great deal about Demas in 2 Timothy 4. 

This book was among Paul’s final writings. He was in prison, chained up and anticipating imminent execution. Yet he penned these words: 

“For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:6–8

Paul was on track to finish strong.

Then in verse 10, he tells us about Demas, who had mentored. Demas walked alongside Paul preaching the gospel and was even imprisoned for sharing that Truth. 

And yet, Demas grew weary and chose to fall back to his comforts instead of relying on God for courage and endurance.

“Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica” 2 Timothy 4:10

Demas was not on track to finish strong.

Demas gave up at the last minute. Thessalonica was home to Demas. Many scholars believe he chose safety and comfort, rather than risking another imprisonment.

This may seem reasonable, I mean, who wants to knowingly be beaten and thrown into prison. Am I right? However, when God has called you to something, he doesn’t promise an easy road.

Paul chose to obey God even if it was risky. Demas chose to obey his fears. 

 

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Personally, I am battling with God over the path He has me on. This comparison between Paul and Demas spoke volumes to me. I am weary.

We all grow tired. We all want prayers answered yesterday. But God wants us to keep fighting the good fight and finish strong!

LFLS family, my prayer for you this week is that you endure. Choose the right thing, be a Paul.

Until next time,
Nick and Laura Mendenhall