“A man who as a physical being is always turned toward the outside, thinking that his happiness lies outside him, finally turns inward and discovers that the source is within him.” – Soren Kierkegaard – Danish Philospher.
Funny…the most common use of the word FINALLY in American culture comes from the lips of WWE Wrestler Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. “FINALLLLLY, the Rock has come to Atlanta….” FINALLY means after a long time, typically involving difficulty or delay; as the last in a series of related events or points. Finally is used in such away as to put an end to all doubt our dispute. You can hear the sigh of relief when something you’ve been waiting for, seemingly forever, finally presents itself in your current reality. We exult that we’ve finally accomplished a goal, that the check has finally arrived, or the opportunity has finally been opened. Often it’s because we were unsure whether or not the thing we longed for would ever happen. Then it finally does.
The Apostles used finally to culminate lists of instructions on Christian living. Finally was a strong admonition on some of their most important topics:
- Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. (1 Peter 3:8)
- Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. 11Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes.( Ephesians 6:10-11)
- Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things. (Philippians 4:8)
- Finally brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: (2 Thes. 3:1)
In 1 Peter 1:3-7, Peter describes our great expectation to receive the priceless inheritance of the resurrection, just as Jesus Christ was raised from the dead. Though we have to endure many trials in this life, these trials will show that our faith is genuine. They will strengthen and purify our faith, which is more precious than gold until the day that Jesus Christ is finally revealed to the whole world. For the Christian, the exercise of faith and trust in our personal lives, and our efforts to become more and more fully persuaded of Divine Truth are purposeful. Our beliefs will reach their pinnacle when our mortal bodies translate to immortality. Peter affirms our love for, hope in, and conviction about Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. “8You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you do not see him now, you trust him; and you rejoice with a glorious, inexpressible joy. 9The reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls.” Each time God brings His prophetic words to pass in the now, our faith increases, and we are more convinced of the reality of His Son’s return. May God grant you some ‘finallys’ this week.
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