I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.
2 Timothy 4:7-8
Paul sums up his life as he faces death which he regards as a sacrifice and a departure with this beautiful statement. Paul’s reflection on his life has no regrets though most of his life he wasn’t popular or comfortable. There is really a whole sermon and outline for our life of faith in the two verses. Let me just cover the obvious ones.
There was intensity to Paul’s faith. He had fought. His faith wasn’t casual or shallow. He compared himself to a boxer who had aggressively challenged his opponent. Paul hadn’t just danced around the ring until the fight was over He had entered the competition looking for a knock-out not a close decision in his favor.
There was endurance to Paul’s faith. He had finished the race. Paul saw his life as a marathon that was run with a long-term plan and goal in mind. He had stuck with his faith even when it would have been easier to quit. Sure there were times he walked but he kept on course until the end.
There was completion to Paul’s faith. He had accomplished the task before him. He was done with his training and was moving on to the next place God had prepared for him.
There was a reward to Paul’s faith. Paul believed in God and that He would reward Paul for seeking Him. This reward is given by Jesus Himself. The righteous judge is always right so when we get judged by him we can rest assured it is the right judgment. Let’s purse this reward like Paul and bring intensity, endurance, completion to our faith because Paul assures us the reward is not for him only but for all who look forward to Christ’s return.
Looking Up For My Redemption,
Pastor Jason
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