FINISH WELL
Jenna Worsham
Today’s Scripture: “By faith Joseph, at the end of his life, made mention of the exodus of the Israelites and gave directions concerning his bones.” Hebrews 11:22, ESV
Theme: Joseph’s faith led him from dreamer, to ruler, to a man facing death, yet still clinging to his faith and hope in God’s promise.
ENDINGS
Finishing well is a challenge – in life, in a career, as a leader, or in school – it's hard to stay faithful and hopeful, not becoming bitter or jaded over time. Sometimes we undervalue ourselves thinking, “No one will even miss me when I’m gone.” Other times we puff up our worth so much we refuse to let go of control, “If I don’t do it nobody else will – or if they do, it will be ruined!” A lifetime of trusting God in humility will bring us to the finish line with confident hope and faith like Joseph’s.
YOU HAVE SEEN IT
Pastor Mike has long been an example of trusting God in humility. We have been at The Cove Church for over 15 years. In that time, many pastors in our country sought celebrity or notoriety. Pastor Mike doesn’t shy away from his responsibilities, but he also doesn’t seek fame, or need to be the center of attention all the time. I’ve watched him quietly mentor other pastors. Just a few months ago, he visited Cove City Church in Ohio led by a former Cove Life Groups Director who was trained and ordained here in Mooresville. There are two churches within an hour of Mooresville, pastored by people Mike led while they were on staff here. Have you noticed the way we get to hear from many speakers on the weekend? That’s by design and it’s not to give anyone a break. That open-handed leadership comes from serving, trusting God, and not taking yourself too seriously.
BY FAITH
“By faith Joseph...” went into captivity, served as master of a house, descended into jail, was second in command of Egypt, didn’t become bitter or hold a grudge after his father’s death, and was still looking forward to God’s faithfulness as he himself faced death without fear and looked forward to the promised land. What a story! No matter what season of life we are in, clinging to faith and hope in God is the way finish well.
Make It Personal: Please take time this week to appreciate and pray for the mentors and others in your life who have invested selflessly in you and your faith. How can you cling to your faith and hope as you navigate this season of life? What will it look like at the end of your life when you do remain faithful? What if you don’t?
Pray: Father God, Thank You for the many examples in my life of quiet faithfulness. Help me to remain humble, with an open hand, and a faithful finish. Thank You for providing for me in this season and each one that follows. From success to struggle from growth to death, I trust You and cling to You. Amen.
Read: Genesis 50:22-26; 2 Corinthians 8:10-12; Deuteronomy 13:4
Weekly Memory Verse: "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." Hebrews 11:1, ESV