Today I’m happy to introduce a fellow teacher and author–Dawn Wilson. She and I belong to AWSA — Advanced Writers and Speakers Association. We share the same passion to see women transformed by the power of God’s Word.

One of my recent newsletter articles really resonated with Dawn, and she emailed to say so. Recognizing a similar heartbeat for ministry, I invited her to guest blog. I appreciate her comments about finishing well. Someday I want to hear the Lord say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” I’m sure you do too.

Be Intentional to Finish Well

by Dawn Wilson

We need to be intentional and likely make some changes if we want to someday hear God’s “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). What can we do to finish well?

We Can Take Courage (2 Timothy 4:7)

Courage. The Israelis have a word for this: hazaq (pronounced Hah-zahk), often used in the Old Testament to encourage soldiers. We see this concept for all believers in Psalm 27:14: “… be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the LORD!”

When we take courage, we bravely confront our weaknesses—who we’ve been and what we’ve done. We bring our secrets to God’s light; we don’t try to hide. When we confess and renounce our sins, we find mercy (Proverbs 28:13).

When we take courage, we become a warrior and stand for righteousness. We remember who we are in Christ—righteous in Him. We become His ambassadors in a sin-sick world. Some fight on the front lines, exposing Satan’s lies with scripture. Some battle for those in pain or in the thick of conflict. Others are prayer warriors. No one should stand on the sidelines.

We Can Build Strength (Philippians 3:14)

To build strength, we must frame our thoughts and attitudes according to God’s Word. Our go-to life scripts come from reading, memorizing, meditating on and applying scripture. Our goal must be to please the Lord with a transformed mind and heart.

To build strength, we must focus on godly friendships that keep us accountable. Loyal friends stick close. Their love encourages us in tough times. We need many kinds of friends. No one friend (except Jesus) can meet all our needs!

If we want to build strength, we must create a family legacy. Jonathan Edwards and his wife Sarah left a far-reaching legacy. Their descendants were accomplished and influential. Our godly example can help loved ones know, love and live for the Lord.

If we want to build strength, we must make healthy choices. Poor choices—in eating, exercise and rest—can lead to debilitating consequences. It’s never too late to make healthier choices.

We Can Embrace Freedom (1 Corinthians 9:24; Hebrews 12:1)

Some people retire from life, afraid to dream new dreams. Others seize each day, making the best use of time and opportunities. Most of us are burdened down with too much stuff. If we learn contentment, “reduce inventory” and simplify our lives, we’ll find extra hours in our day, more money in our checkbooks, less stress about our stuff, and the calming freedom of “space.”

To embrace freedom, we must use resources wisely as good financial stewards of our finances, homes, and everything we own; and use skills and spiritual gifts for the Kingdom.

To embrace freedom, we must keep on dreaming for joyous creativity and service. Become a lifelong learner and figure out ways to contribute to families, church and society.

To embrace freedom, we must pursue new adventures with God, allowing Him to lead us as He wills. In Him, all our adventures will be for our good, others’ benefit and His glory.