When we set out on a new venture, whether it’s a career change, a relationship, or a personal goal—there’s often an intoxicating rush of excitement. The beginning holds so much promise, so much potential. But as the saying goes, “It’s not how you start; it’s how you finish.” And if we dig a little deeper, we’ll find that this wisdom echoes in the pages of one of the most profound books of the Bible: Ecclesiastes.
The Wisdom of Waiting: Why the End is Better Than the Beginning
Ecclesiastes 7:8 tells us, “The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride.” This verse challenges the often short-lived excitement we feel at the start of something new. It shifts our focus from the spark of beginnings to the steady flame that sustains us until the end.
But why is the end better than the beginning? And why is patience superior to pride?
The Hidden Strength of Patience
Patience isn’t just about waiting; it’s about enduring with grace. It’s easy to be proud at the start, full of optimism and self-assuredness. But when the journey gets tough, it’s patience that keeps us moving forward, even when the road is rough, and the finish line seems far away.
Think about it: Abraham waited years for God’s promise of a son to be fulfilled. It wasn’t the initial promise that defined Abraham’s faith, but his patience and trust in God’s timing. Similarly, in our lives, it’s often the perseverance through challenges that shapes our character and leads to the most meaningful outcomes.
The Downfall of Pride
On the flip side, pride is the ultimate false start. It can lead us to make impulsive decisions, overestimate our abilities, and overlook the need for God’s guidance. Pride might give us a temporary boost, but it often results in setbacks and failures. Remember King Nebuchadnezzar? His pride led to his downfall until he finally humbled himself before God.
So, while pride may get us out of the gate quickly, it’s patience that ensures we cross the finish line victoriously.
Living Out Ecclesiastes 7:8
In practical terms, how do we live out the wisdom of Ecclesiastes 7:8? Here are two suggestions:
- Embrace the Journey: Whether you’re in the middle of a challenging project or waiting for a prayer to be answered, focus on the process, not just the outcome. Trust that the end will reveal the purpose behind the struggle, and don’t rush through it.
- Cultivate Humility: In every endeavor, remind yourself that it’s not about how fast you start or how much you accomplish in the beginning. Stay humble, remain teachable, and allow patience to guide your steps.
The Ultimate Example: Jesus
If we need an example of this verse in action, we need look no further than Jesus. His life was not defined by the miracles He performed at the beginning of His ministry but by His perseverance to the cross. It was through His patient endurance, even unto death, that He brought salvation to the world. The end—His resurrection—was indeed better than the beginning, and it changed the course of history forever.
Conclusion: Finish Strong
So, the next time you find yourself caught up in the excitement of a new beginning, or struggling to keep going in the middle of a tough journey, remember the wisdom of Ecclesiastes 7:8. The end of a matter is better than its beginning because it’s in the end that we see the true value of our efforts. And patience, more than pride, will carry us through to that victorious finish.
By focusing on the finish line and cultivating patience along the way, we can transform our journeys into meaningful, fulfilling experiences that align with God’s ultimate plan for our lives.
