For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. 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 Tim 4:6-8)
Thought for today: 23 May 2020
Within this text, Paul spoke to his beloved spiritual son, Timothy. Paul is in jail, awaiting execution for his faith. Yet his concerns are with Timothy. He wants to comfort and encourage him. He knew that by the time Timothy get this letter, he might already be gone. These words of Paul, are the best comfort that he could leave behind. He gave indication that he is nearly on his way. Humanly spoken his life seems like a dreadful failure. BUT then Paul make the statement…
- I have fought the good fight
- I have finished the race
- I have kept the faith
- there is a crown of righteousness laid up for me in heaven
Then he ends with these words, but not only for him, but also to everyone that regard Christ as precious. What marvelous words to leave behind, words to encourage Timothy to fought the good fight, to finish his race and keep the faith. These words of Paul did not only comfort Timothy but also us today. May we live in such a way that we also will be able to utter these words to the next spiritual generation, and in turn encourage them!
