Bible reference:  Acts 20:24 In life, it's easy to start something new.  A new diet, an exercise program,  a new job, new relationships,  a new beginning.   But life isn't a 50 yard dash, but a marathon.   There are lots of good starters, but poor finishers.  I  have known many who have started well with a bang, but finish with a whimper. People start with a bang, then get hit with criticism.   There are lots of people who say things that put you down.  Sometimes the stress spills over into marriage and cause problems.   People sometimes leave ministry with a broken heart.   Paul did not want this to happen to the elders in Ephesus.   He wants us to reach the finish line.   Paul was sharing from his own life the trials and perseverance.  2 Timothy 4:7 Paul in Acts 20:24 had a difficult task.  Paul did not consider his own life more important than what Jesus called him to.  He put his trust in Jesus.   God is in control,  that's all we need to know.   God is most importan