We
all have dreams, desires, and goals that we are believing God for. At times,
when it’s taking too long, when it’s not happening on our time table, it’s easy
to slack off and be tempted to give up. But if we’re to reach our maximum potential, we have to stay committed until
the end.
My
personality type is to keep moving forward. Sometimes, I move on too quickly. I’m
good at starting but not so good at finishing. God is dealing with me to stay
committed to the people and the things He has called me to. It is uncomfortable
but I’m learning.
What
about you? Are you tempted to give up easily? Do you run away from challenges
when things get complicated or take longer than expected? God is saying to us, “If you stay committed to the end, you’ll see
the glory of God.” He will reward
you double for your troubles.
Back
in 1960, a young man enrolled in the University of Michigan in order to become
an architect. His father died when he was four years old so he grew up in an orphanage.
He borrowed $900 to start a pizza business that would help fund his education,
but he faced many setbacks. His business partner stole thousands of dollars
from him. In 1968, a fire broke out and burned down his business. The insurance
paid him pennies on the dollar. Despite the odds, the young man remained
committed to the vision that God gave him.
One
day he had an idea to deliver pizza to customers instead of having them come to
his restaurant. He came up with the first delivery service and called it
Domino’s. Today, you may have enjoyed a slice of their pizza because Domino’s has
over 6,000 locations around the world. A few years ago, Tom Monaghan sold his
company for a billion dollars! He is a very generous man, helping orphaned
children around the world.
What
is my point? Stay committed to the
vision God put in your heart. You may have plenty of reasons to give up, but
do like Monaghan. Stay committed until the end and your dream will come to
pass. God will give you double for your trouble.
Be
determined.
Leaving is easy but ask yourself what are you going to? Stay committed to your marriage.
Stay committed to your children even if they are not where you want them to be.
Be loyal to your friends. Stay committed to the relationship, work, and your
church. There may be times when you are tempted to give up. You could justify
walking away. But God rewards consistent, loyal, and committed people.
Do not settle for
mediocrity.
There is greatness within you. God did not
bring you this far only to leave you. He put a world vision in you. God
wants to use you and increase your influence. Do not let people,
disappointments, or circumstances talk you out of it. If you stay committed, God
will bring you to a flourishing finish!
In
2 Kings Chapter 2, Elijah was about to be taken up to heaven. His apprentice, Elisha,
knew that his master’s life was coming to an end. One day, Elijah said to
Elisha, “Stay here! I’m going to the city
of Bethel.” Elisha said, “I’ll never
leave you.” Off they went to Bethel. When they reached the city, Elijah
said, “Stay here, I’m going to Jericho.”
Again, Elisha denied leaving him. When they arrived Jericho, Elijah told him
the third time, “Stay here Elisha; I’m
going to the Jordan River.” Once again, Elisha refused and said, “I will never leave you!” Three times
Elijah tried to get rid of his apprentice but Elisha was committed.
Finally,
Elijah said, “You’ve been a loyal person. You’ve served me well. You’ve been
faithful for so many years. What can I do for you?” Elisha replied, “I want the
double portion of your anointing!” His master said, “You've asked a hard thing, but if you see
me at the time I'm being taken away, you will have it.” Shortly afterwards, Elijah
was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind and his mantle fell on his disciple.
Elisha went on to perform twice the miracles!
Here’s
the key. If you want to see the double
portion of God’s anointing in your life, stay committed until the end.
There will be plenty of opportunities for you to give up on your dream. The
enemy will entice you to walk away from your marriage, walk away from the relationship,
walk away from your job, or your church. Leaving is easy. What are you going
to? When you stay loyal, consistent, and faithful, a double portion is
coming, double favor, double honor, double resources. Stay committed until the end and God
will give you double for your trouble!
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the
proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9 NIV).
Building People. Spreading Hope.
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