“But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God” (Acts 20:24).

Paul told the Ephesian elders that he was not totally certain what would happen to him at Jerusalem. He explained that he knew that bonds and afflictions (20:23) awaited him wherever he went. Paul’s message of salvation through faith alone in the Lord Jesus alone was not popular. While some wonderfully and gloriously embraced the gospel and trusted Christ, others rejected the gospel and hated the messenger.

This is a good time for you and me to stop and think about his statement. Even if “bonds and afflictions” awaited him, there was a greater purpose to him than ease, comfort, and even his life. It was to finish well. He wanted to finish his course with joy. Much could be said about this goal. Suffice it to say for now that to finish with joy, you and I need to intentionally live for the Lord Jesus today.

This has my attention for today: I have just stopped to pray as I write this Daily Prescription. I’ve asked the Lord to help me live and serve in such a way as to finish well. How about you? Will you join me in such a prayer for yourself.