“And John departing from them returned to Jerusalem” (Acts 13:13).

We are not sure what caused John Mark to forsake the mission team. Some believe it was because of loneliness, others believe it was discouragement, and still others believe it was direct disobedience. Whatever the reason for John’s early departure, it caused Paul to be reluctant to bring him on the next trip (Acts 15:36-41). That was the bad news; now for the good news. Later in John Mark’s life, he proved himself to be trustworthy and a valued member of the ministry team.  In fact, the apostle Paul said that he is “profitable to me for the ministry” (2 Timothy 4:11). Here is a great lesson for us to learn and apply personally. There is a great difference between finishing and quitting! From time to time many servants of the Lord battle the temptation to quit. Thankfully, many overcome that temptation, thereby finishing their ministries well. Perhaps today you are tempted to quit. Remember there is great joy in finishing well. There will be great regret in quitting early. May the Lord give you wisdom to discern the difference!

For today: I want to be a finisher. How about you?