Daily Manna
Finishing Well Is More Important
MONDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2023
Key Verse
“And Solomon went up thither to the brasen altar before the LORD, which was at the tabernacle of the congregation, and offered a thousand burnt offerings upon it” (2 Chronicles 1:6).
TEXT — 2 Chronicles 1:1-6
Message
One hundred and fifty meters before finishing in first place in the 3,000 meter steeplechase at a Diamond League meeting in France, American runner Evan Jager suffered the worst collapse of his career. Jager was blowing away a group of Kenyan runners on pace to crush a personal record and American record, when he tripped on the final hurdle and was passed by world leader Jairus Birech.
Solomon started well in our text. As soon as he ascended the throne, he called Israel to worship at the place appointed (the tabernacle of God). He led the worship himself, offering a thousand burnt offerings in the process. Israel was a nation united under God, led by their king, Solomon. However, after God blessed him with wisdom, riches and honour, he went back from his perfect walk with the Lord as he grew older.
Some people leave the faith because of discouragement. They succumb to Satan’s deceit and manipulation to believe that God had abandoned them. Yet, we do not often consider the case of those who left despite all the blessings they received from God. Solomon was in this category. The Lord created a very peaceful atmosphere for Solomon as soon as he ascended the throne. There was no war nor evil occurrence (1 Kings 5:4). He had more than anyone could desire. But he started pursuing vanity and derailed from godliness.
Those who live and die in disobedience to God cannot be saved by their past good deeds. The rapture is meant for those who are alive and would remain in fellowship till the end. Like the marathon runner, Evan Jagar above, we must pray against anything that can potentially truncate our race and make us end in shame and disappointment.
Thought for the day
How you finish is more important.
BIBLE
in one year
HAGGAI 1 – 2
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