Finishing Well

"Not enough is said today about *finishing* well. Lots and lots of material is available on motivation to get started and creative ways to spark initiative...Let's extol the virtues of sticking with something until it's *done.* Of hanging tough when the excitement and fun fade into discipline and guts. You know--being just as determined eight minutes into the fourth quarter as at the kickoff...

I fear our generation has come dangerously near the 'I'm-getting-tired-so-let's-just-quit' mentality...

Do I write today to a few weary pilgrims? Is the road getting long and hope wearing a little thin? Or to a few parents who are beginning to wonder if it's worth it all--this exacting business of rearing children, which includes cleaning up daily messes and living with all that responsibility? Or to you who have a dream, but seeing it accomplished seems too long to wait?...

So many start the Christian life like a lightning flash--hot, fast, and dazzling. But how many people...can you name who are finishing the course with sustained enthusiasm and vigor? Oh, there are some, I realize, but why so few? What happens along the way that swells the ranks of quitters? "

Source: Charles R. Swindoll in "Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life"