Have You Fought?

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.

2 Timothy 4:7-8

PAUL WROTE THESE words to Timothy as the apostle awaited possible execution by the Romans for preaching the gospel and turning the world upside down. Paul was perhaps the greatest missionary ever. And yet he never considered himself great. He only tried to run his race day by day and remain faithful.

Look back on the past year. How have you been running? In what ways have you been faithful? God has noticed. He knows when you’ve faltered and failed and when you’ve surged forward for him with great courage and determination. He knows about everyone you’ve influenced, every person you’ve tried to steer in his direction, every good word you’ve spoken, every prayer you’ve uttered for others. Scripture tells us he has written it all down.

Paul’s coming death didn’t worry him or make him feel sorry about his failures or lost opportunities. Nor did he take credit or pride in all the great things accomplished through him. He saw it all as part of God’s plan based on God’s power. He also looked forward to a crown in heaven. God’s promise is for those who run consistently—slow, fast, or otherwise. If they remain faithful, they will receive a great crown in heaven. It’s something to look forward to, isn’t it?