May 29, 2020
“In the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.” II Timothy 4:8
Paul is just like an athlete here running a race. He has run the race of life and he faithfully had completed everything that God had for him to do in life therefore; he is given the winner’s crown. That’s the same crown that is available to every one of us that runs this race. It is the reward for following after God and His will for your life.
God will reward each of us that complete His will in our lives. We must stay true and endure for His name’s sake. God has a plan for each of us. We may never see the fruit of our labors here on this earth but there is a crown of righteousness laid up for each one of us. The Crown of Righteousness was provided by Jesus’ supreme sacrifice, by dying for each one of us on the cross.
The crown that Paul is speaking of is one that is given to an athlete as crosses the winning finish line at a race. It is a garland tied together and is placed on the runner’s head to show everyone that he has completed his race. This is a type of victor’s crown.
Paul at this point in his life chose to focus on things above that were awaiting him in Heaven. Like scripture says in Colossians 3:1, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.” Paul wasn’t worried about his beheading that was in his immediate future but he wanted to finish his course well and be pleasing to our Heavenly Father.
Are there times in your life that you’re tempted to give up because things seem to be too difficult and you’re tired and worn out? Ask God for the strength to carry on and finish well, just like Paul. I pray that you will all finish well!
- Pray for those serving in the Military
- Pray for our Missionaries around the World
- Pray for the First Responders all over the World