Asa – How to Finish Well

2 Chron. 15-16

Philip. 2:16 (NLT) 

    Hold tightly to the word of life, so that when Christ returns, I will be proud that I did not lose the race and that my work was not useless.

2 Tim. 4:7 (NLT) 

    I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful.

1 Cor. 9:24 (NLT) 

    Remember that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize. You also must run in such a way that you will win.

1.  God is always accessible, and He will always remain faithful and continue to lead us as long as we never give up on Him.

2 Chron. 15:2-4 (NLT)

2.  The character quality necessary for completing obedience is courage.

⁷And now, you men of Judah, be strong and courageous, for your work will be rewarded.

When we courageously choose to follow God first above all else, God Himself will take care of our battles because they are now His battles.

2 Chron. 15:15 (NLT)

    All were happy about this covenant, for they had entered into it with all their hearts. Eagerly they sought after God, and they found him. And the Lord gave them rest from their enemies on every side.

Remove all the symbols of sin that encourage us to sin.

2 Chron. 15:8 (NLT)

2 Cor. 7:1 (Msg) 

    … let's make a clean break with everything that defiles or distracts us, both within and without. Let's make our entire lives fit and holy temples for the worship of God.

2 Chron. 16:7-10 (NLT)

3.  Faithfulness in one season does not guarantee faithfulness in another season, so, be alert at all times to remain continually faithful.

2 Chron. 16:7 (NLT)

    At that time Hanani the seer came to King Asa and told him, "Because you have put your trust in the king of Aram instead of in the Lord your God, you missed your chance to destroy the army of the king of Aram.

Faith and faithfulness has to be renewed by choice and specific attention because they cannot maintain themselves.

Psalm 51:10 (NIV)

    Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)

    but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.