In a world that often prioritizes fame, success, and pleasure, the journey of faith can sometimes feel a little overwhelming. Seventh-day Adventist Church Eric Toleafoa writes.

However, for many of us, it is crucial to focus on “finishing well” in our Christian Walk.

This biblical concept involves staying faithful until the end and living a life that honours God and reflects His character. Let’s explore three very important areas that highlight how we can anchor our lives in Christ while embracing God’s priorities for us.

First, You must Embrace your Purpose in Christ.

God created each one of us with a unique purpose and a plan (Jeremiah 29:11). And understanding God’s purpose for your life is foundational to finishing well - knowing that our lives matter in the grand scheme of His Kingdom.

Particularly for many including our young people in the Cook Islands, where community and family often shape our aspirations in life, it is vital to align our goals with God’s calling. When you commit all that, you do to the Lord, as Proverbs 16:3 emphasizes, your plans will be established. Engaging in community initiatives, such as community service or church involvement, can help you discern and fulfill your God-given purpose while positively impacting those around you.

Embrace your purpose in Christ and actively seek opportunities to serve others within your community. This alignment with God’s plan helps you stay focused and enables you to finish your journey with fulfillment.

Second, Cultivate Perseverance through Trials

Finishing well requires resilience. Life in itself can present various challenges—whether cultural shifts, financial struggles, or personal dilemmas. James 1:2-4 reminds us that trials are opportunities to strengthen our faith and develop perseverance. “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

Many of our young adult’s face pressures from peers and societal expectations. However, if we fix our eyes on Jesus (Hebrews 12:1-2) and allow our struggles to push us closer to Him, we will find the strength to endure. Sharing testimonies within church groups or youth gatherings can foster a community of support where struggles are acknowledged, and perseverance is celebrated.

Cultivating perseverance through trials is key to finishing well. By leaning on Christ during difficult times and supporting each other, we build a faith that stands the test of time.

And thirdly, Leave a Legacy of Faith

As followers of Christ, we are called to ‘be examples’ to those around us, especially the younger generation (Titus 2:6-8). Leaving a legacy of faith means demonstrating a life devoted to God’s message and values.

In the context of the Cook Islands, where communal life is essential, the legacy of faith can resonate deeply. Engaging in mentoring relationships, such as guiding the younger generation to participate in Christian service activities, can cultivate a thriving faith community. Your actions and consistency in following Christ will inspire others to do the same.

Here are some practical steps that will help strengthen our faith journey:

• Fix your mind, heart and eyes on Jesus daily.
• Surrender your efforts and ambition to God’s power, daily.
• Seek renewal through God’s Word every day.
• Accept and receive God’s grace as He does continuous works in and through you.
• Be confident of this: that He who began a good work in you will carry it through to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. (Phil. 1:6)

Leaving a legacy of faith is crucial for finishing well. By actively mentoring and demonstrating a Christ-centred lifestyle, you contribute to creating an enduring impact in your community.

In conclusion, the call to “finish well” as young Christians in the Cook Islands is not merely about personal achievements; it’s about aligning our lives with God’s priorities. By embracing our God-given purpose, cultivating perseverance during challenges, and leaving a legacy of faith, we can stay anchored in Christ and impact our communities positively. Let’s commit ourselves to this journey, trusting that the end of our faith will lead to a life well-lived, glorifying God in every step.