December 1st, 2025
by Pastor Gary Moritz
by Pastor Gary Moritz
Ever Wonder Why It's Easier to Start Than to Finish?
In our fast-paced world, starting something new is often exciting. Whether it's a new hobby, a job, or a resolution, the initial thrill can be invigorating. But how often do we find ourselves struggling to see things through to the end? This challenge isn't new. Even in biblical times, the principle of endurance was crucial, as demonstrated by Jesus and the Apostle Paul.
Today, let's explore how we can "Lead Like Jesus" by embracing endurance in our spiritual journey.
Jesus: The Ultimate Example of Endurance
Jesus' life was a testament to starting strong and finishing faithfully. He didn't just begin His ministry with power; He completed it with purpose. From His baptism to His final words on the cross, "It is finished," Jesus exemplified endurance. His journey teaches us that true transformation in our lives, relationships, and callings comes from enduring to the end.
The Apostle Paul echoed this sentiment. In 2 Timothy 4:6-8, Paul reflects on his life, saying, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." Paul understood that endurance was not just about starting well but finishing faithfully. His life challenges us to fuel our passion with purpose and remain consistent, even when it's inconvenient.
Fuel Your Passion with Purpose
What drives you to get up every morning? Is it a fleeting passion or a deeper purpose? Paul teaches us that purpose makes sacrifice worthwhile. Passion without purpose is just emotion, and emotions can fade. But when we align our passion with God's purpose, we find the strength to endure.
Consider what God has called you to be, do, and go. When your passion aligns with your purpose, you can face any challenge with resilience. As Paul urged in Romans 12:1, present your life as a living sacrifice, driven by a purpose that transcends temporary emotions.
Be Consistent When It's Not Convenient
Consistency is more powerful than intensity. It's easy to start with enthusiasm, but true endurance requires showing up every day, even when it's tough. Jesus taught that faithfulness in small things leads to greater responsibilities (Luke 16:10). Our private discipline determines our public impact.
In a world that celebrates intensity, remember that God values consistency. He sees what others don't celebrate. Your daily commitment to prayer, Bible reading, and serving others may not always be noticed, but it builds a foundation for lasting spiritual growth.
Fight the Right Fight
Not every battle is ours to fight. Paul reminds us to focus on the good fight—the one that advances God's kingdom. In Ephesians 6:12, he emphasizes that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces. Choose your battles wisely, focusing on those that align with God's mission.
Lead with the End in Mind
Finishers don't just start well; they stay faithful. Hebrews 12:1-2 encourages us to run with endurance, keeping our eyes on Jesus. Our reward isn't in earthly applause but in eternal crowns. Live with eternity in mind, and let your life reflect a legacy of faithfulness.
Practical Takeaways
A Prayer for Endurance
Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of endurance set by Jesus and Paul. Help us to fuel our passion with Your purpose, remain consistent in our faith, and fight the right battles. May we lead with the end in mind, living for Your eternal reward. Strengthen us to finish well, for Your glory. Amen.
As we move forward, let's embrace the challenge to "Lead Like Jesus" by enduring in our faith and finishing strong. Your family, church, and community need finishers—those who will say, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."
In our fast-paced world, starting something new is often exciting. Whether it's a new hobby, a job, or a resolution, the initial thrill can be invigorating. But how often do we find ourselves struggling to see things through to the end? This challenge isn't new. Even in biblical times, the principle of endurance was crucial, as demonstrated by Jesus and the Apostle Paul.
Today, let's explore how we can "Lead Like Jesus" by embracing endurance in our spiritual journey.
Jesus: The Ultimate Example of Endurance
Jesus' life was a testament to starting strong and finishing faithfully. He didn't just begin His ministry with power; He completed it with purpose. From His baptism to His final words on the cross, "It is finished," Jesus exemplified endurance. His journey teaches us that true transformation in our lives, relationships, and callings comes from enduring to the end.
The Apostle Paul echoed this sentiment. In 2 Timothy 4:6-8, Paul reflects on his life, saying, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." Paul understood that endurance was not just about starting well but finishing faithfully. His life challenges us to fuel our passion with purpose and remain consistent, even when it's inconvenient.
Fuel Your Passion with Purpose
What drives you to get up every morning? Is it a fleeting passion or a deeper purpose? Paul teaches us that purpose makes sacrifice worthwhile. Passion without purpose is just emotion, and emotions can fade. But when we align our passion with God's purpose, we find the strength to endure.
Consider what God has called you to be, do, and go. When your passion aligns with your purpose, you can face any challenge with resilience. As Paul urged in Romans 12:1, present your life as a living sacrifice, driven by a purpose that transcends temporary emotions.
Be Consistent When It's Not Convenient
Consistency is more powerful than intensity. It's easy to start with enthusiasm, but true endurance requires showing up every day, even when it's tough. Jesus taught that faithfulness in small things leads to greater responsibilities (Luke 16:10). Our private discipline determines our public impact.
In a world that celebrates intensity, remember that God values consistency. He sees what others don't celebrate. Your daily commitment to prayer, Bible reading, and serving others may not always be noticed, but it builds a foundation for lasting spiritual growth.
Fight the Right Fight
Not every battle is ours to fight. Paul reminds us to focus on the good fight—the one that advances God's kingdom. In Ephesians 6:12, he emphasizes that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces. Choose your battles wisely, focusing on those that align with God's mission.
Lead with the End in Mind
Finishers don't just start well; they stay faithful. Hebrews 12:1-2 encourages us to run with endurance, keeping our eyes on Jesus. Our reward isn't in earthly applause but in eternal crowns. Live with eternity in mind, and let your life reflect a legacy of faithfulness.
Practical Takeaways
- Identify one thing God is calling you to finish. Write it down, pray over it, and commit to seeing it through.
- Reflect on your purpose. What drives you to endure? Align your passion with God's calling.
- Practice consistency in your spiritual disciplines. Show up daily, even when it's inconvenient.
A Prayer for Endurance
Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of endurance set by Jesus and Paul. Help us to fuel our passion with Your purpose, remain consistent in our faith, and fight the right battles. May we lead with the end in mind, living for Your eternal reward. Strengthen us to finish well, for Your glory. Amen.
As we move forward, let's embrace the challenge to "Lead Like Jesus" by enduring in our faith and finishing strong. Your family, church, and community need finishers—those who will say, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."
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