What does it mean to finish strong? It means that regardless of what has gone on before, you want to finish keeping the commitment you made to God. I know that we all began this fast with the best of intentions.

     Along the way some people have broken their fast, whether accidentally or because they simply did not keep the promise they made. Whatever your experience has been during this fast, FINISH STRONG.

     If you have broken your fast recommit yourself for the rest of our time. If you have been faithful throughout, God is doing a work in your life. Continue to open yourself up to him.

     Moving to the next level in our spiritual life do not happen by accident. Someone who has not given faithfully to the church does not suddenly find they have been tithing. Someone who has had an inconsistent prayer life does not become a prayer warrior over night. If you have never been much of a Bible reader, you will not become a lover of God's word tomorrow.

     Are you as close to God as you can be? None of us are. Sometimes people say, I wish I had the faith she has. Or I wish I was as close to God as he is. Or I'd like to see God work in my life in dramatic ways like God has done in this person's life.

     Spiritual growth does not happen automatically. We have to put forth effort, not to earn growth in our life with God, but as a way of opening ourselves up to the dramatic steps God has wanted to take in our lives all the way along. We just have not been open to what God wants to do in our lives.

     That is the power of our period of prayer and fasting. We are opening ourselves to God in new ways. We are saying Lord, you are more important to me than, this food, or this activity. We are re-aligning ourselves with God. We are spiritual beings. Our greatest source of strength is beyond ourselves.

     Our greatest strength is in Jesus Christ and the power of his resurrection. The Holy Spirit lives inside of all believers but we often ignore God's spirit. Maybe we are too focused on something else. Maybe we have chosen to turn away from God.

     Is God finished with you yet? Is God finished with Trinity yet? NOT BY A LONG SHOT. Your attempt to be faithful to Awakening pleases God. Perhaps you have picked up a new habit because of this Awakening. I am sure you have learned some things about yourself during this period.

     God is smiling at your today. I can't wait to see what God is up to next!