Ten tips for finishing the race- start well.

We are so often told that it is not how you start a race that matters but how you finish. This is true...ish. Getting a good start to a race can have huge implications as to how and whether you finish. The finish is what we aim for, but starting well will set you ahead of most people.

So how do we start well.

1. Know you are in it to finish. Have your mind set on completing the race.

2. Be prepared. Are you equipped & trained for the race.

3. Know what it will cost you. The Bible says that no one should build a building without first counting the cost. Am I prepared to do whatever it takes to get to the end?

4. Have the right travelling companions. John Donne stated "no man is an island, entire of himself". More importantly God said "It is not good for man to be alone. This is one race that we need people alongside us.

5. Be prepared to keep going even if your fellow racers give up.

6. Know your motivation. Why are you doing this race? Is it for a cause that is bigger than yourself? "For the joy set before him, Jesus endured the cross". Don't just have a vision. You own a vision, but a cause owns you.

7. Don't go off too quickly, gain momentum. Too often I have seen people come to Christ and like a match, burn bright for a few weeks then when trouble hits, the flame dies. Jesus himself said this would happen in the parable of the Sower.

8. Know your destination but be prepared for diversions on the way. Proverbs 20:24 A man’s steps are directed by the Lord. How then can anyone understand his own way?

9. Keep your eyes on what is at your feet but also the direction you are taking further ahead. Psalms 119:105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

10. Be prepared to be hospitalised. The difference between a casual runner and an elite runner is that a an elite runner will give everything they have and somehow even more to finish the race. Is that your mindset at the start?

Anyway hope this helps. Remember, if you haven't started well...

Lamentations 3:22-23
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.

This morning is a great day to start your race.

Jon Cook
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