What to Be: Be a Finisher

“Tell Archippus: ‘See to it that you complete the work you have received in the Lord.’ ” (Colossians 4:17)

Our final role-model from Paul’s buddy list this week isn’t actually one of the guys working with Paul in Rome. He’s probably Philemon’s son back in Colosse, where this letter is headed. He was maybe taking care of some of Epaphras’s ministry duties back there while E. was with Paul.

whatto_350Paul tells Archippus to “see to it” (or “look out”) that he finish the “work” (or “ministry”) God gave him to do. Either Arcippus was dropping the ball or Paul knew that things were about to get tough for him. He urged everyone to remind Archippus to keep going and finish strong. Talk about accountability!

Has God called you to do any ministry work that you’ve left hanging – or that you’re thinking about giving up on? Maybe it has to do with helping with something at church or telling a friend about Jesus or even just making it your job to encourage other Christians in the jobs they’re doing for Christ.

Don’t give up. Be the kind of Chirst-follower who finishes what you start. Hang tough.

Think: What ministry work have you “received in the Lord”? Are you still working at it? If you can’t think of any ministry you’re supposed to be doing, what are some ways you could start serving Christ, especially in your church?

Pray: Ask God to help you to finish what you start for him.

Do: Make a plan for some specific ways you can “keep going” in serving God this week. If you don’t have a regular way that you serve in your church, see if you find a way to help.