Starting Strong: Perseverance and Legacy in Faith

Summary

Today, we gathered in the presence of God, lifting up praise and worship, knowing that He inhabits the praises of His people and meets us in our gathering. We took time to intercede for those in need, specifically praying for Mr. Kenneth’s healing and for the upcoming mission trip to Mexico, asking for protection, open doors, and fruitful ministry. We also remembered the significance of Memorial Day, honoring those who have given their lives for our freedom and praying for their families, recognizing that our ability to worship freely is a direct result of their sacrifice.

Reflecting on the journey of faith, I shared how every significant accomplishment—whether in our personal lives or in the Kingdom—begins with a simple step forward. The key to finishing strong is simply to start, even when the task seems daunting or the path unclear. We are reminded from Galatians 6:9-10 not to grow weary in doing good, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up. Weariness often tempts us to relax our grip or stop moving forward, but it is in those moments that breakthrough is often just ahead.

Our walk with God is not a solitary sprint but a relay, where each generation passes the baton to the next. The legacy of faith is built intentionally, not accidentally, and it is our responsibility to ensure that what God has done in us is passed on purposefully to those who come after us. Each of us has a unique supply to bring to the body of Christ; when we withhold our gifts, the body is left lacking. Our race and our fight of faith are not just for ourselves but for the benefit and encouragement of others. Even when we feel weary, unappreciated, or tempted to step back, we must remember that our presence, our worship, and our perseverance matter deeply—not only to God but to the entire community of faith.

God has placed a gold mine of gifts and purpose within each of us. The enemy would love to convince us that we don’t matter or that our contribution is insignificant, but the truth is, every part of the body is vital. Let us be mindful to be a blessing, to keep moving forward, and to finish strong, knowing that our faithfulness today will echo into future generations.

Key Takeaways

- The Power of Starting and Persevering: No matter how overwhelming a task or calling may seem, the only way to finish is to begin. Waiting for perfect conditions or complete understanding will only delay progress. God calls us to walk by faith, not by sight, trusting that as we move forward, He will guide and strengthen us. [48:35]

- Weariness Is a Threshold, Not a Stopping Point: Weariness often comes just before breakthrough. The temptation to relax or give up is strongest when we are closest to reaping the harvest. Instead of backing off, we are called to press through, knowing that God’s promise is that we will reap if we do not faint. [57:13]

- Our Race Is a Relay, Not a Solo Sprint: The Christian life is not just about personal achievement or spiritual milestones. It is a relay, where our faithfulness impacts the next generation. We must be intentional in passing on our faith, our values, and our vision, ensuring that those who come after us are equipped and empowered to run their leg of the race. [01:06:52]

- Your Supply Matters to the Body: Every believer has a unique measure of faith and a supply to bring to the body of Christ. When we disengage or withhold our gifts, the whole body suffers. Conversely, when we show up—whether in worship, encouragement, or service—we strengthen others and fulfill our God-given purpose. [01:34:34]

- Guard Against Weariness, Offense, and Familiarity: The enemy often tries to draw us away from our place of strength through offense, weariness, or by making the things of God seem commonplace. We must continually allow the Holy Spirit to refresh our hearts, adjust our attitudes, and remind us of the privilege and purpose of serving in God’s house. [01:28:37]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[31:45] - Prayer for Healing and Mission Trip
[33:40] - Commissioning and Blessing the Mission Team
[39:11] - Memorial Day Reflection and Prayer
[46:25] - Investing in the Next Generation
[48:35] - The Importance of Starting
[51:27] - Moving Forward Despite Hesitation
[53:57] - Galatians 6:9-10 – Don’t Grow Weary
[57:13] - Weariness and Breakthrough
[01:06:52] - The Relay of Faith and Passing the Baton
[01:10:53] - Living Purposefully for the Next Generation
[01:13:30] - Our Race and Fight Affect Others
[01:16:21] - Putting on a Garment of Praise
[01:18:47] - Finishing Strong and Keeping the Faith
[01:34:34] - Every Member’s Supply Matters
[01:36:17] - The Gold Mine Within You
[01:37:05] - Prayer for Encouragement and Strength
[01:39:41] - Closing Blessing and Dismissal

Study Guide

Small Group Bible Study Guide: “Finishing Strong—Starting, Persevering, and Passing the Baton”

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### Bible Reading

- Galatians 6:9-10 (AMP)
> “And let us not lose heart and grow weary and faint in acting nobly and doing right, for in due time and at the appointed season we shall reap, if we do not loosen and relax our courage and faint. So then, as occasion and opportunity open up to us, let us do good morally to all people, not only being useful or profitable to them, but also doing what is for their spiritual good and advantage. Be mindful to be a blessing, especially to those of the household of faith, those who belong to God’s family with you, the believers.”

- 2 Timothy 4:7
> “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

- Ephesians 4:15-16
> “But speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ—from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.”

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### Observation Questions

1. According to Galatians 6:9-10, what is the promise for those who do not grow weary in doing good?
2. In 2 Timothy 4:7, what three things does Paul say he has done at the end of his life?
3. The sermon described the Christian life as a relay race, not a solo sprint. What does this analogy mean for how we view our faith journey? [[01:06:52]]
4. In Ephesians 4:16, what happens when every part of the body does its share?

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### Interpretation Questions

1. Why do you think Paul warns us not to “grow weary” in doing good? What are some reasons people might feel like giving up? [[57:13]]
2. The pastor said, “Weariness often comes just before breakthrough.” How does this perspective change the way we handle tough seasons? [[57:13]]
3. What does it mean that “our race is a relay, not a solo sprint”? How does this affect the way we invest in the next generation or those around us? [[01:06:52]]
4. The sermon mentioned that every believer has a “supply” to bring to the body of Christ. What are some ways people might underestimate their own contribution? [[01:34:34]]

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### Application Questions

1. The only way to finish is to start. Is there something in your life or faith that you’ve been putting off because it feels overwhelming? What is one small step you could take this week to get started? [[48:35]]
2. When have you felt weary or tempted to give up in your walk with God or in serving others? What helped you keep going, or what could help you next time? [[57:13]]
3. The pastor said, “Our presence, our worship, and our perseverance matter deeply—not only to God but to the entire community of faith.” How might your participation (or absence) impact others in your church or family? [[01:13:30]]
4. Think about the “baton” of faith. Who passed the faith to you, and who are you intentionally passing it to? Is there someone younger or newer in faith you could encourage or invest in this month? [[01:06:52]]
5. The enemy tries to convince us that our contribution is insignificant. Have you ever believed this lie? What is one gift, talent, or act of service you can offer to your church or community this week? [[01:34:34]]
6. The sermon talked about guarding against weariness, offense, and familiarity. Is there an area where you’ve become too familiar or even a little resentful about serving? What would it look like to let the Holy Spirit refresh your heart? [[01:28:37]]
7. The pastor described the “gold mine” God has placed inside each of us. What is one way you can dig deeper into your God-given gifts and use them for the benefit of others? [[01:36:17]]

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Close in prayer, asking God for strength to persevere, courage to start, and a heart to bless others and pass on the faith.

Devotional

Day 1: Don’t Grow Weary in Doing Good—Your Harvest Is Coming
There are seasons in life when doing the right thing feels exhausting, and it may seem like your efforts are unnoticed or unrewarded. Yet, God’s Word assures us that if we do not lose heart or relax our grip, we will reap a harvest at the appointed time. Weariness often sets in when we let up or stop moving forward, but perseverance in faith and goodness brings breakthrough and blessing. Even when it feels like others have it easier or you’re swimming against the current, remember that your journey is different because you are pursuing God’s plan. Keep pressing on, knowing that your faithfulness will bear fruit in due season. [53:57]

Galatians 6:9-10 (Amplified)
"And let us not lose heart and grow weary and faint in acting nobly and doing right. For in due time and at the appointed season we shall reap, if we do not loosen and relax our courage and faint. So then, as occasion and opportunity open up to us, let us do good morally to all people, not only being useful or profitable to them, but also doing what is for their spiritual good and advantage. Be mindful to be a blessing, especially to those of the household of faith, those who belong to God’s family with you, the believers."

Reflection: Where in your life are you tempted to give up or let go of doing good? What is one step you can take today to keep moving forward in faith, trusting God for your harvest?


Day 2: Run Your Race and Fight the Good Fight—Your Faith Matters
Every believer is called to run their unique race and fight the good fight of faith, not just for themselves but for the sake of others. Your perseverance and faithfulness have a ripple effect, impacting those around you in ways you may never see. There will be moments when you feel like quitting, but finishing strong means pressing on even when it’s hard. The journey is not about reaching a single pinnacle but about faithfully moving toward God’s purpose, knowing that your race and your fight are significant to the body of Christ. [01:18:47]

2 Timothy 4:7 (ESV)
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

Reflection: Who in your life is encouraged by your faithfulness? How can you intentionally encourage someone else in their race or fight of faith today?


Day 3: Your Part Matters—Every Member Has a Supply
God has given each person a unique measure of faith and a vital role to play in the body of Christ. When you bring your gifts, encouragement, and presence, you strengthen the whole church; when you hold back, the body is missing something only you can provide. No matter how small your contribution may seem, it is significant in God’s eyes and essential for the growth and health of the church. You matter, your supply matters, and your connection to others is part of God’s design for mutual strength and edification. [01:34:34]

Ephesians 4:15-16 (ESV)
"Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love."

Reflection: What is one way you can bring your “supply” to your church family this week—whether through encouragement, service, or simply showing up with a heart to bless others?


Day 4: Pass the Baton—Live Purposefully for the Next Generation
Our spiritual journey is not a solo sprint but a relay, where we are called to purposefully pass on faith, vision, and legacy to those who come after us. The choices you make today, the way you serve, and the love you show are all part of building something that will outlast your own generation. Be intentional about investing in the next generation, making sure they know they belong and are equipped to carry on the mission. Your life and faith are a gift to those who will follow—live today with that purpose in mind. [01:12:11]

Psalm 78:4 (ESV)
"We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done."

Reflection: Who is one younger person or new believer you can encourage or invest in this week? What is one thing you can do to help them feel they belong and are part of God’s story?


Day 5: Put On a Garment of Praise—Choose Worship Over Weariness
There will be days when you don’t feel like praising God, when heaviness or discouragement tries to settle in. In those moments, God invites you to “put on” praise by faith, not waiting for feelings to change but choosing worship as an act of trust. Your praise not only lifts your own spirit but can inspire and encourage others around you. When you choose to worship, even in weakness, you open the door for the Holy Spirit to bring strength, joy, and breakthrough. [01:16:55]

Isaiah 61:3 (ESV)
"…to grant to those who mourn in Zion—to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified."

Reflection: What is weighing on your heart today? Take a moment to intentionally “put on” praise—sing, pray, or thank God out loud—and notice how it shifts your perspective and spirit.

Quotes

Hoping you will one day will never get you there. Hoping you will one day. You have to have hope, you know, because if you don't have hope, then you won't have any vision to even get started. But hoping you will one day that everything's going to line up and you'll get there one day is never going to actually move you one inch towards the direction that you want to go. You have to start putting one foot in front of the other and then just keep at it. [00:51:23] (00:00:28 seconds) Edit Clip

Weariness comes when you let up. You know, a lot of times our mind and our body will trick us thinking that, you know, we're getting weary, so we need to relax. Anybody ever realize that that doesn't always help? Now, everybody needs rest and things like that. But sometimes when we're getting weary, it's just right on the cusp of everything breaking over. But we'll get in that weary moment and then we want to relax. But really, weariness comes in when we start relaxing our grip on what we're pursuing. [00:56:46] (00:00:38 seconds) Edit Clip

What else are you going to do with your life are you going to live it for yourself go through the same ups and downs maybe have some type of worldly success and then get there that day and not hear well done thou good and faithful servant then all the ups and downs weren't even worth it at that point you're not even going to worry about that [01:05:10] (00:00:23 seconds) Edit Clip

Why? Because we believe that what God has called us to do here at Word of Faith is significant. Not saying that nothing else is, but this is where God's called us to be. That it's significant and that it's so significant that it's going to outlast just our generation. That it's going to go to the next and it's going to go to the next. But if that doesn't get put in place purposely, it can definitely happen accidentally. But we don't want it to happen accidentally. We want it to be purposeful in that. Amen? [01:12:34] (00:00:32 seconds) Edit Clip

Nothing is about just you and God in the body of Christ. You have no idea what your expression of worshiping God could encourage someone else to do and change their life. I'm a living testimony of that. I'm a living testimony of coming into a church and for the first time watching other people worship God. You say, well, I don't know. Some of those people are probably just putting on. They might be. They might be. You know, the Bible says put on a garment of praise. I don't want to feel like a put on. Why? The Bible tells you to put it on. Well, if you got to put it on, that must mean you had to take it off. Right? Well, I just didn't feel like it. Well, put it on. [01:15:19] (00:00:50 seconds) Edit Clip

Fight the good fight of faith. It is a fight. It didn't say, you know, that he didn't use some kind of little, you know, cheery, you know, example. He used the example of violence, really. Fight the good fight of faith. It is a fight. So, you know, I was going out of church and everything was good. And I just, golly, I just don't know. So, you know, this happened and I'm, it's a fight. Claw your way into a place. Don't let just anything take you out of doing the plan and purpose of God. Fight. Fight to keep yourself in a place where you're not getting weary while you're doing good. Fight to keep yourself in a place where you understand that I'm in the middle of a race here. And other people are depending on my race. Don't let yourself relax your grip on your direction that God has put in your life. Amen? [01:31:10] (00:01:07 seconds) Edit Clip

It's easy to see the supply that I bring because I'm front and center. It's easy to see what the musicians bring. It's easy to see maybe what some of the kids' workers bring. But what's harder to see and maybe downplayed a lot is the supply that you can bring just sitting right there. The supply that you can bring to somebody else's life by saying, you know what? It doesn't matter how I feel today. I'm going to be there. And not only am I going to be there, I'm going to be bringing my supply of praise. I'm going to be bringing my supply of worship. I'm going to be bringing my supply of encouragement. I'm going to make sure that today somebody feels wanted there, feels welcome there. [01:34:34] (00:00:38 seconds) Edit Clip

You matter. Well, I just don't feel like I matter. That's the enemy telling you you don't feel like you matter. Because you matter to the body of Christ. And you matter to us. You matter to me. Why? Because I need you and you need me. Amen? Is that okay? [01:35:21] (00:00:20 seconds) Edit Clip

There's a gold mine hidden in every life. God never made a failure. Every man has success hidden away in his soul. No one else can find it but himself. He holds the key to the hidden room. Failure comes because we never sought that hidden treasure. Failure comes because we tried to find it somewhere else. You can't find it anywhere else. Success, victory, achievement are in you. The exceptional people are those who develop what is within them. The gold mine is in you. God has put gifts. He's put talents. God not only put them there, he wants to anoint them and he wants to allow you to use those in the body of Christ. Christ, there's a gold mine in every single person in this room. I promise you. That's why I love people so much. I love people that everybody else loves and I love people that some people don't love. Why? Because there's something good in every single person. Something good. Amen. [01:35:44] (00:01:07 seconds) Edit Clip