Here in Silicon Valley, more often than not, our weather is wonderful. Clear blue skies, in the 70’s, a gentle breeze, not a hint of rain (at least in the last seven days or so). We love it that way. And it’s easy to echo King David’s familiar words, “This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.”

If only the rest of life was always sunny and “perfect.” We will all face days, or weeks, or even years that are far from the perfect, peaceful life we long for. Even spiritual giants like David and Paul had their share of dark days. That was even true when David wrote the above words. Yet even in those dark days, he was choosing to live on the sunny side. Paul did the same, even while chained and imprisoned in Rome. How that sunny disposition is possible, even on dark days, will be our focus today as we dive again into the book of 2 Timothy.

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From Series: "Rock Solid"

This Week's Sermon: "Still Running Strong"

Finishing what we start isn’t easily done in a world that is filled with conflict, push back, boredom, and hardship in abundant measure. Comparatively speaking, starting a new project, a new book, a new job, a new relationship is easy. But keeping a commitment, a promise, a contract, a vow – for the duration of the pledge – is when things get tough.

Somewhere along the way we hit a wall, and the thought of abandoning the race begins a battle in our minds. The proof of how often we lose that battle can be seen in divorces, abandoned diets, job changes, and even half-read books.

Don’t you love the feeling when you finish something you started? And we love to see others finish what they start. Running strong to the very end. If ever someone displayed that kind of fortitude, especially when it came to matters of faith, it was the Apostle Paul. He finished strong. This Sunday we’ll see why, and hopefully gain insight into how we can do the same.

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