The recent moral failure of a respected Christian leader is a sober reminder that finishing well in ministry is not guaranteed by longevity, popularity, or the influence you may have. My heart is broken for his family and the cause of Christ. All my life, I have read the sad stories of men and women who started well and then fizzled before the finish, and I have asked God to keep me from causing this kind of pain. Even though we have written about this before, I think we can all use a reminder to live an authentic Christian life from start to finish. Here are several things that we need to do to finish well:

1. Guard Your Private Life More.

What no one sees will eventually shape everything others do see. What we think about (or do) in private will ultimately bubble up for the public to see. 

2. Take Sin Seriously—Early and Honestly.

Most failures begin with the little things. These small early compromises, if not handled right away, will grow into something devastating. 

3. Live Accountably, Not Independently.

Isolation is dangerous for leaders. We all need people who know us well enough to ask hard questions. We also need people whom we can go to and share even the slightest temptation that we are struggling. 

4. Remember You Are Not Above Temptation.

Be careful! Everyone is tempted. You are setting yourself up for failure when you begin to think you are “too spiritually mature” to do “something like that.” You have heard it said, “We are one day away from stupid.” Confidence without caution invites collapse.

5. Refuse to Let Ministry Success Replace Obedience.

God is not impressed by our platforms, productivity, or popularity. He looks for faithfulness, integrity, and obedience. 

6. Submit to Regular Spiritual Examination.

Regularly ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart. Ask Him to shine His light on any “darkness” in your life and then to grant you the grace to repent and move forward. 

7. Run for God’s Commendation, Not Man’s Applause.

The goal is not to be admired, but to hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” That voice is the only one that matters at the finish line.

Finishing well is not about perfection; it is about perseverance with humility. May we run carefully, honestly, and dependently, so that when our race is complete, our lives reflect not only excellent service for God, but a faithful walk with Him.

This article was written by state missionary Rob Jackson.