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A Quote from St. Basil

It is not he who begins well who is perfect. It is he who ends well who is approved in God's sight.

— St. Basil

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Life Applications!

Life Applications

Commentary
Saint Basil's quote emphasizes the significance of perseverance and steadfastness in faith. It highlights the idea that true approval comes not from how one begins, but from how one finishes. This serves as a reminder to stay committed and focused on the journey of faith, striving for a strong and faithful finish.
Paraphrase
The one who finishes well, not the one who starts well, is the one approved in God's sight.
Poem
Starting strong is not the key,
it's the finish that God will see. Perfection lies in how we end,
in God's approval,
we'll transcend.
Presentation Suggestions
  • Preach on the importance of finishing well in the Christian faith
  • Discuss the concept of perseverance and its role in achieving God's approval
  • Explore the idea of maturity and growth in faith as it relates to ending well
  • Encourage the congregation to stay steadfast in their faith journey
  • Examine the biblical examples of individuals who finished well in God's sight
Related Bible Verses
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead,
I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us.
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.
The Holy Bible, Berean Standard Bible, BSB is produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free resources and databases are available at BereanBible.com
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
  • What does it mean to 'end well' in various aspects of life?
  • How does this quote apply to personal goals and achievements?
  • In what ways can faith and perseverance lead to a strong finish?
  • What role does maturity play in 'ending well'?
  • How can we seek God's approval through our actions and choices?
  • How does this quote relate to the concept of perseverance?
  • In what ways can the idea of 'ending well' be applied to daily life?