“Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win.“

I Corinthians 9:24 NASB

Many folks know how to start but few know how to finish. Who will make that last exerted effort to push with all you’ve got to be a winner? If you watched the 2008 Olympics you probably paid some attention to the amazing Michael Phelps. As the 100m butterfly was nearing the finish line in his quest for his seventh gold medal in the 100 meter, each swimmer was giving it their all. Michael Phelps was at least one stroke behind and his quest for seven gold medals was about to end. But, as you know, it was in the last exerted effort that he won by a fingertip. When everything around you is telling you you’re not going to make it or your business is going to fail, and those hopes and dreams you have had are finished, are you ready to persevere regardless of the odds? Aren’t you thankful that Jesus didn’t get right up to the end and quit on the cross. “Well, folks, I’m not going through with this because it hurts too much.” No, He didn’t give up. He kept going. He finished strong. What about you?