31 Meanwhile his disciples urged him, ‘Rabbi, eat something.’
32 But he said to them, ‘I have food to eat that you know nothing about.’
33 Then his disciples said to each other, ‘Could someone have brought him food?’
34 ‘MY FOOD,’ said Jesus, ‘IS TO DO THE WILL OF HIM WHO SENT ME AND TO FINISH HIS WORK. John 4
Jesus’ disciples returned to find Him in conversation with a loan Samaritan woman at the well of Sychar. From the outset of His ministry, Jesus knew His mission and was dedicated to its completion. It was the key thing that energised and sustained Him.
4 I HAVE BROUGHT YOU GLORY ON EARTH BY FINISHING THE WORK YOU GAVE ME TO DO. John 17
Jesus’ Prayer to the Father before His crucifixion. He was able to declare that He’d Finished the work God gave Him, though the greatest test still lay ahead.
30 When he had received the drink, Jesus said, ‘IT IS FINISHED.’ With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. John 19
Jesus knew that He’d FINISHED HIS MISSION. Those were the last words He spoke on earth. There’d been many miracles, much teaching and defence of the Truth in the face of the Religious system. But the last thing Jesus signed out on was the COMPLETION OF HIS MISSION.
24 However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; if only aim I MAY FINISH THE RACE AND COMPLETE THE TASK THE LORD JESUS HAS GIVEN ME – the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. Acts 20
Paul was also focused on Completing the race that had been marked out for Him, even at the cost of his life. Later when writing to Timothy he also declared that HE HAD FINISHED HIS RACE!
6 For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. 7 I HAVE FOUGHT THE GOOD FIGHT, I HAVE FINISHED THE RACE, I HAVE KEPT THE FAITH. 8 Now there is in store 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 longed for his appearing. 2 Timothy 4
Derek Prince stated that he’d had a revelation while reading Paul’s writing to the Corinthians, namely;
25 Now … as one that hath obtained mercy/been SHOWN FAVOUR OF THE LORD TO BE FAITHFUL. 1 Corinthians 7
Paul had been Shown Mercy/Favour by God and that was the reason he’d been able to endure such severe trials. Many pastors or ministers don’t make it to the end of the course and many don’t finish well. ALL OF US NEED GOD’S GRACE (as well as our endurance and fortitude) TO MAKE IT TO THE END OF THE COURSE.
Ask God for His Mercy and Grace to Finish your race well and don’t just trust on your own strength.
God bless and keep you today.