PURPOSE OVER FEAR
But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
Paul is not pretending that life is easy, and he does not ignore the fact that hardship, pressure, uncertainty, and even danger can surround us. Instead, he shows us what is possible when our sense of purpose is stronger than our fears.
But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. Acts 20:24
Paul understood his life was not his own, it was a precious gift placed in God’s hands for a special purpose. That perspective helped him stay steady, no matter what was happening around him.
We live in a world full of distractions, some loud, some subtle. There are so many responsibilities, pressures, voices, and even our own thoughts that try to pull us off course. But Paul’s example reminds us that purpose brings clarity. When we remember God is the One who called us, equipped us, and placed us exactly where we are, we find the strength to keep moving forward.
Paul’s goal was not just to cross the finish line, it was to finish with joy. That joy did not come from having an easy life. It grew from trusting God, walking in obedience, and staying faithful to what God asked him to do. Joy comes when we live our lives surrendered to God.
Every Believer has a race to run, different routes, different gifts, different seasons, but we all share the same calling to stay faithful. When our hearts are focused on the God who gave us our assignment, challenges start to lose their power to shake us. We begin to see obstacles as opportunities, setbacks as moments that shape us, and every day as a part of God’s bigger story.
Paul invites us to live with that same steady confidence. God calls us to keep going, keep trusting, and keep pouring our hearts into what matters for eternity. When Jesus is at the center, we really can finish our race with joy.
Heavenly Father, give me the courage to stay faithful to the calling You have placed on my life. Strengthen my heart when challenges arise, and help me finish my race with joy, trusting that You are guiding every step and shaping me for Your purpose. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
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God Calls Us To Keep Going, Keep Trusting, And Keep Pouring Our Lives Into What Matters For Eternity. When Jesus Is The Center, We Really Can Finish Our Race With Joy.
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