I have been thinking of all those who faithfully carried out the work God gave them to do.
Some came into the work later in life. Some served all their lives.
But they all had in common that they finished strong. They closed their eyes to this world in joyful entrance into Heaven.
Jesus said, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, if anyone keeps My word [by living in accordance with My message] he will indeed never, ever see and experience death.”
John 8:51 (amplified Bible)
I believe that to be true. While death may seem frightening to those of us on this side, it is not so to those whose spirits are finally set free.
As Stephen was dying, he said, “I see heaven open and The Son of Man standing at the right side of God!”
Paul said of Jesus, He endured the cross “for the joy set before Him.”
Hebrews 12:2
Paul came to his true calling after a rocky start. But he finished strong, and he was able to say with confidence, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
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 4:7-8
Jesus said to His Father at the end of His assignment to earth, “I have brought You glory on earth by finishing the work You gave Me to do.
And now, Father, glorify Me in Your Presence with The Glory I had with You before the world began.”
John 17:4-5
Wherever you are in life, you can still finish strong. You can anticipate seeing Heaven open and hear the great clouds of witnesses cheer you on as you turn for home.
Praise God from Whom all Blessings flow!
